Eunjin Lee received her Doctor of Musical Arts Degree in Piano Performance and Literature
from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. With a strong background in pedagogical studies, Dr. Lee has expanded her research interest to Dalcroze Education and the Suzuki method, studying and presenting at national and international workshops, including the Suzuki Association of the Americas Conference in Minnesota, the Yale Graduate Music Symposium and the Illinois State Music Teachers Association’s annual conference. She earned the Dalcroze™ Certificate and is now pursuing Dalcroze™ License studying with Dr. Jeremy Dittus from Dalcroze School of the Rockies.
Q. Can you talk about what you teach at DePaul University's Community Music Division? How long have you been with DePaul CMD?
I have been an instructor at DePaul University's Community Music Division for 14 years. My teaching expertise encompasses both Suzuki and traditional piano instruction since 2009. Additionally, I have expanded my role by teaching Eurhythmics, Rhythmic-Solfége, and Suzuki Group Classes for beginner levels. Obtaining a Dalcroze teacher certificate further equipped me to integrate movement and physical expression into music education. Witnessing my students' growth and musical development has been an incredibly fulfilling experience, and I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to their musical journeys at DePaul CMD.
Q. What are your main goals for students who enroll in Dalcroze Eurhythmics courses?
My main goals for students who enroll in Dalcroze Eurhythmics courses are threefold. Firstly, I strive to inspire children's engagement with music through everyday movements like running, walking, and lunging, as well as storytelling and imagination. By fostering a natural sense of time, space, and energy in music and movement, students develop a deeper understanding of note values within different contexts. Secondly, I aim to nurture their problem-solving skills through interactive games and activities. Encouraging independent and collaborative problem-solving empowers students to take ownership of their learning and fuels their determination to practice. This problem-solving approach extends beyond my class and prepares them for future instrumental lessons, where they can apply their musical knowledge and problem-solving abilities. Lastly, I expose students to diverse musical styles, encompassing classical, modern, piano improvisation, folk songs, and renowned classical repertoire recordings. This rich musical exposure allows students to explore and appreciate various genres, fostering a lifelong love for music that can be shared with their families both inside and outside the classroom.
Q. Why is Dalcroze Eurhythmics important?
Dalcroze Eurhythmics is of utmost importance for several reasons. Firstly, it allows all of my students to experience the joy and fulfillment of making music. As an instructor, I feel a strong sense of responsibility to guide them in taking their first steps toward music lovingly and enjoyably, while nurturing their curiosity and creativity. Additionally, the Eurhythmics course imparts essential and foundational music knowledge to students through experiential learning, rather than simply providing theoretical explanations. Students develop a tangible and embodied understanding of musical concepts by using their bodies as their first instrument and engaging in various movements, enhancing their overall musical experience.
Q. What inspires you as an instructor?
As an instructor, I am deeply inspired by the joy and excitement that radiates from my students. Witnessing their enthusiasm as they eagerly run to their parents after class is incredibly rewarding. Knowing that their positive experiences in my class instill confidence and ignite a passion for music in their hearts motivates me to continue nurturing their musical journey. I maintain regular communication with parents and organize open classes at the end of each quarter, where parents are frequently amazed by their child's prompt reactions to the music and genuinely enjoy the class alongside their children. Observing the sense of musical community blossoming within my class fills me with immense satisfaction. I am dedicated to supporting the growth of a vibrant music community at CMD every year.
Q. Can you describe an impactful memory that you experienced at DePaul CMD?
One impactful memory that stands out at DePaul CMD is the lasting connection I have formed with several students who studied with me for as long as 13 years until they went on to college. Hearing from them that they continue to play the piano or reach out to me for guidance in resuming their musical journey fills me with immense joy. It is gratifying to know that music has become an integral part of their lives. This experience has taught me the importance of cherishing every moment with my students and cultivating a nurturing environment where they can develop their musical abilities. I hope they, too, have fond memories of our time together and its impact on their musical growth.