For those who do not know Sophia Kim, let us paint you a picture: a 5’1″ teen with circular glasses, a cheery spirit, and a laugh that will brighten up your day. A junior at Hills, Kim has made several contributions to our community other than her contagious smile. Those contributions include being part of National Honor Society, being active in debates as Co-President for Model UN, and being one of the singles player for the Girls’ Tennis Team. Her most recent acheivement that Wayne Hills was proud to announce is her talented piano skills that led her to win the 12th David D. Dubois Piano Competition.

The competition took place at the Bowling Green State University in Ohio and Kim had tough competition as she went up against 17 other semifinalists. However, what made her persevere and kept her calm and collected was simply her love for music.

Below is a short interview with Sophia Kim and her feelings and emotions regarding the competition and her musical career:

When did you start playing piano?

“When I was about four years old I started taking lessons, but I liked to mess around with the keys since I was two years old.”

What about the piano appeals to you?

“It activates a whole other side of me— I get engulfed in the music and can’t let go.”

How did you feel going into the competition?

“I was nervous and excited at the same time! I was kinda of excited to perform live, but there’s always the pressure of a competition.”

How do you deal with nerves while playing on the piano?

“I try to think about the social connection I bring to my audience, and how I’ll positively affect them with my music. I like to think that I’m interacting with them and telling them a story by the fireplace.”

What goals do you have for your musical career?

“I’m not too sure yet, but I’m definitely considering studying music in college. Whatever I do in life, I know that I want to keep it as a part of the rest of my life.”