Ji Hye Jung

Ji Hye Jung is Associate Professor of Percussion and Director of the Percussion Program at the Blair School of Music, Vanderbilt University. She previously served as Associate Professor of Percussion at the University of Kansas for six years, demonstrating a strong academic trajectory in music performance education.

• Bachelor of Music, Peabody Institute of Johns Hopkins University
• Master of Music, Yale School of Music

Jung is a leading figure in contemporary percussion performance, actively commissioning and premiering new works to expand the repertoire. Her research and artistic interests center on percussion performance, new music development, and chamber music collaboration. She has worked closely with composers such as Kevin Puts, Michael Torke, and Philip Glass, contributing significantly to the evolution of the marimba and percussion concerto genres.

Her performance history reflects a deep engagement with modern and 20th-century repertoire, including premieres and recordings of major contemporary works. Jung’s artistic output bridges performance, education, and innovation in percussion.

Scientific and Artistic Awards:

• First Prize, Linz International Marimba Competition (2006)
• First Prize, Yale Gordon Concerto Competition (2007)

Jung has been active in mentoring through masterclasses at institutions such as the Curtis Institute, Peabody Conservatory, and Central Conservatory of Beijing. While specific grant details are not mentioned, her commissioning projects and recordings (e.g., Michael Torke’s Mojave, Philip Glass’ Concerto Fantasy) suggest significant artistic funding and institutional support. She is also an artist endorser for Pearl/Adams, Vic Firth, and Zildjian, reflecting her professional stature.

Jung performs with leading ensembles such as Camerata Pacifica and has appeared at major festivals including the Grand Teton Music Festival, Schleswig-Holstein Festival, and Grachtenfestival. Her collaborative work includes performances under conductors like David Robertson and Hans Graf, and premieres of works by Bright Sheng and Huang Ruo.