As Eastern’s music department is discussed on campus, the majority of the chatter surrounds the incredibly talented students who study and perform in various ways each year. When people praise the flawless works accomplished by these students, it is important to remember the seasoned experts behind the scenes.
The department’s faculty is filled with brilliant musicians who spend countless hours with their students to help them achieve greatness. One particularly skilled instructor is Hyoeun “Eunice” Jeon.
Jeon is the Director of Eastern University’s Community School of Music. She teaches piano in classes and privately, as well as working as the department’s primary accompanist.
Jeon studied church music and piano at Eastern University and earned her Master of Divinity (M. Div.) from Palmer Theological Seminary. Later, she earned her doctor of worship studies with a concentration in pastoral counseling from Liberty University.
Jeon returned to Eastern as an alum to work in the music department. “I first came to Eastern as a music student, so coming back to work here has been very meaningful to me,” she said in an interview.
Since her return, she has had a full dance card of opportunities to play for campus performances. “I started working at Eastern as an accompanist and have worked with the University Choir, Turning Point and the Templeton Honors College Choir. I also accompany student recitals and other performances in the Music Department. Over time, I began teaching as well. I have taught Worship History, and I currently teach piano classes and private piano lessons while continuing my work as an accompanist,” she said.
As Jeon maintains her current position, she has bigger and better things in the works for the music department . “We are currently preparing to relaunch the program, with plans for private lessons, group instruction, ensembles and other music programs for children, young musicians and adults. We also hope to connect with the Eastern community as well as families, churches, schools and musicians in the surrounding community,” she shared. These community connections will not only get Eastern’s musicians’ talent into the public eye, but also show off the excellent training they receive as students.
Jeon’s magnificent work with her students and plans for the future of the music department are a result of her love for her art. “For me, it is special to have started at Eastern as a student and now be back here teaching and working with students. Music has always been a big part of my life, and I am grateful that my work at Eastern allows me to continue performing, teaching and helping build opportunities for others to make music,” she said.
