Dr. Yewon Lee
Director of Music
Dr. Yewon Lee is an accomplished conductor and pianist, boasting a wealth of experience throughout Southern California and beyond. With performances spanning the United States, France, Italy, Japan, South Korea, and Israel, Dr. Lee’s reputation as a highly sought-after artist has been widely recognized.
Prior to her relocation to San Diego, Dr. Lee served as an Assistant Music Director of Opera at Baldwin Wallace University and Adjunct Professor at Kent State University. Throughout her career, Dr. Lee has collaborated with notable organizations including Baldwin Wallace Opera Theater, the National Opera Center in New York City, the Aspen Opera Theater Center, and the International Vocal Arts Institute. Her contributions to the local community have also led to frequent invitations as a guest performer and lecturer at San Diego State University and San Diego Opera. Dr. Lee has been an official pianist for the Metropolitan Opera Laffont Competition for the San Diego District since 2023.
Born in Seoul, South Korea, Dr. Lee received a Bachelor of Music degree in Piano Performance from Seoul National University, a Master of Music degree in Vocal Accompanying from Manhattan School of Music, and an Artist Diploma in Collaborative Piano from the Juilliard School. Most recently, she earned her Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Choral Music from the University of Southern California, studying under the tutelage of Dr. Jo-Michael Scheibe.
Currently, Dr. Lee holds several cherished positions, including Director of Music at San Dieguito United Methodist Church and Music Director of the San Diego Festival Chorus. She also serves as a Community Choir Representative for the California Choral Directors Association. As a co-founder of Duo Nova, a vibrant and innovative piano ensemble based in San Diego, Dr. Lee enjoys sharing music with local audiences. Deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve the congregation at San Dieguito United Methodist Church since 2022, she finds joy in using her musical gifts to praise the Lord and to connect with others. Outside of her musical life, Dr. Lee treasures time spent with her family and friends.