Bella Magazine October 2013 | Page 6

sensible pianist who’s that girl Kimberley K. is a multicultural girl with many hats on. A teacher, student, musician, Miss contestant, blogger, fashionista, martial arts champion, fitness junkie... She definitely isn’t an ordinary girl. She might be a super woman...! How was it growing up in the US in a Korean family? Do you feel more American or Korean? That’s such a tough question to answer. My parents always emphasized the importance of understanding and embracing my Korean heritage - I was definitely raised on korean ideals and expectations. I wouldn’t be able to say I felt more American or more Korean though. It’s equally weighted in all honesty. How many hours do you practise the piano? I usually practice 5-7 hours a day. It’s tough to fit everything in, especially with since I’m a doctoral student. You are a classical pianist and a teacher - why did you choose this profession and what else could you do if not playing the piano? Music is my life. I made my pro fessional debut with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra at the age of 9, and that experience truly changed my life. I knew then that it was the only path I wanted to pursue. If I weren’t a musician, I’d probably be studying interior design. What do you like to wear while performing? Do you keep it simple or do you let your fashionable self to express itself? For performances, I always wear gowns. I tend to keep it simple though. I want to make sure I can focus on the music! It’s tough to concentrate when statement earrings are swinging around! What can we find on your fave playlist? Classical or modern music? Definitely a mix of both. I have to admit though, I listen to a lot of pop/rap/techno in my free time. I’m a huge fan of Deadmau5, Beyonce, Swedish House Mafia, and Macklemore. You also have a black belt in Tae-kwon-do. Was it an disadvatage while dating boys? I think guys actually like that I can hold my own. To be honest though, it’s been years since I’ve had a boyfriend. I just haven’t had any time to date! You claim you are a descendant of Confucius, does it mean any obligations or consequences? It doesn’t actually mean anything, I suppose! It’s just a cool fact :-) Baltimore, USA 5 sensiblestylista.blogspot.com