What if a great music career isn’t either–or but yes–and? The Cello Sherpa Podcast Host, Joel Dallow, sits down with violinist Eunice Kim to explore how a childhood steeped in sound turned into a life that balances the intimacy of chamber music, the rigor of orchestral work, and the freedom of solo projects. From a seven-year-old debut in Seoul to the charged Saturdays at the San Francisco Conservatory prep division and the whirlwind of Aspen Music Festival, Eunice learned early to juggle scope and to listen as intensely as she plays.
That mindset prepared her for the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra, a conductorless ensemble where every rehearsal is chamber music at scale. Eunice shares what it takes to thrive in that environment: crisp time management, shared leadership, and the courage to contribute without crowding the room. We talk through her unusual path into the SPCO—from recruitment play-ins to a recital-style audition heavy on chamber interaction—and why fit matters as much as chops. She pulls back the curtain on section size, rotating seats, balancing the hall’s acoustics, and how “wearing different hats” each week keeps her learning and inspired.
Outside the orchestra, Eunice maps out a modern approach to projects, programming, and management. After formative years with Astral Artists, she connected with Jonathan Wentworth Associates by pairing thoughtful repertoire with authentic stage presence, then shaped a partnership that respects her SPCO home base. We dig into how programs get built, why presenters chase narrative and variety, and how collaborations—from piano sonatas to a violin–double bass duo—can open doors. Her advice to young players is frank and generous: stay curious, try things twice, understand how organizations work, advocate clearly, and protect your energy to avoid burnout.
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For more information on Eunice Kim: https://www.eunicekimviolin.com/

You can also find Eunice on Instagram and Facebook: @eunipalooooza

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