Minjee Jang, a native of South Korea, began playing piano at the age of five, embarking on a lifelong musical journey. She continued her in-depth study of classical piano throughout her teenage years, even while earning her first bachelor’s degree in Shipbuilding Engineering. Although her career as a naval architect kept her busy for many years, Minjee ultimately chose to pursue her true passion: piano and music. In 2018, she moved to Virginia to study music, immersing herself in jazz piano—a shift inspired by her deep curiosity about jazz’s unique sound and improvisational nature. She went on to earn a Bachelor of Music in Jazz Performance from Virginia Commonwealth University, where she studied under Wells Hanley.

Since graduating, Minjee has embraced a diverse freelance career as a performer, writer, and teacher. She has played in various venues across Richmond, including the Children’s Hospital of Richmond, the ICA, the Moore School, and the VMFA. With experience teaching students of all ages and musical interests in different genres, she emphasizes focusing on each student’s unique qualities and learning style. Along with technique, reading, and theory, she encourages her students to explore improvisation—something she wishes she had started learning at a young age. Ultimately, her goal is to create a joyful and engaging environment in her studio, nurturing a lifelong appreciation for music among her students.