Bio
Siwon Lee is a distinguished jazz pianist, arranger and composer based in New York and South Korea. Having established a strong foundation, playing classical piano since the age of four, her work spans genres. Her artistic influence includes classical, jazz, funk, pop and latin music.
Her jazz journey began in South Korea, where she won first prize at the 2014 Kyung-Hee University Jazz Competition, a significant milestone that set the stage for her pursuit of jazz at an international level. Moving to New York, she immersed herself in rigorous study and performance at SUNY Purchase, earning both acclaim and accolades, including the 2024 SUNY Purchase Outstanding Graduate Award, which recognized her exceptional leadership and musicianship.
Siwon’s performance resume is as impressive as it is varied. She has appeared on the stages of iconic jazz venues such as Birdland and Jazz at Lincoln Center, and engaged audiences in cultural settings like the Neuberger Museum of Art. Her versatility shines through in performances including her role in the house band for the innagural Latin Jazz Festival at the Purchase Performing Arts Center, where she contributed to a program honoring grammy award winning pianist Eddie Palmieri. Siwon has performed and shared the stage with many jazz luminaries including Jon Faddis, David Dejesus, Ray Vega, and Melissa Aldana.
Siwon’s artistry is grounded in a strong respect for jazz tradition paired with a fearless embrace of new expressions. She is widely recognized for her sensitivity, humility, and passion for her craft, qualities that resonate deeply with both her audiences and fellow musicians. Whether performing solo, leading her ensembles, or working collaboratively within large orchestras, her playing exudes authenticity and emotional depth.