Testimonials
“In the two years that Wonki Lee has worked with our son, who is now 14, he has transformed him into a true musician. He provides rigorous, classical training, balanced with a fine sense of humor, and he always tailors his approach to the energy and abilities of the student. Wonki’s own playing is exquisite, which is an inspiration to our son. He has a deep knowledge of saxophone repertoire and he gives expert guidance on all issues of concern to young saxophone players. But in the end it is his musicality and his dedication to teaching the student to produce the most beautiful sound with the instrument that sets Wonki apart and puts him at the highest level of saxophone pedagogy. ”
“Wonki Lee is a phenomenal saxophonist and teacher. His dedication to the saxophone is apparent in his teaching, and his lessons are well rounded and very informative. Not only does he have a full mastery of the instrument, but also has a deep and through the understanding of the music and history behind it. Mr. Lee is one of the very best.”
“Mr. Lee’s lessons analyze musical works from various perspectives and utilize new ideas for me to become more musical and logical. He has flexible imaginations and depth of musical knowledge. Mr. Lee influenced the way I live as a musician.”
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Student Performances
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Teaching Philosophy
My focus as a teacher is to help students develop into their best selves: to become confident learners, critical thinkers, and accomplished individuals able to express themselves and their ideas well. I work towards engaging students in my lessons and in the material by using a number of strategies. It is great pleasure to assist students in becoming individually eloquent and distinct in their musical voices. I believe this is important developmentally not just for musicianship but also for all of life.
Education
D.M.A Manhattan School of Music, 2019
M.M. Manhattan School of Music, 2014
B.M. Manhattan School of Music, 2012
Affiliations
Montana State University School of Music
North American Saxophone Alliance
Si-Yo Music Society and Foundation
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College Program
The Bachelor of Arts in Music at Montana State University is designed to enable students to combine concentrated music studies with a wide variety of areas outside of music, along with a broad range of specialized music and outside subjects at a Carnegie Foundation "very high research activity" designated university.
Precollege Program
Aspiring young saxophonists are encouraged to audition for Manhattan School of Music Pre-College Division, one of the world's premier music conservatories, to join my studio of selected talents.
Private International Saxophone studio
Please contact for availability and information.
Recent Student Achievements
NYSSMA
Students received "Outstanding" in levels 3 to 6 in solo saxophone
Performances
Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center (NYC)
DiMenna Center for Classical Music (NYC)
Competitions
1st prize - 2022 Charleston International Music Competition
1st prize - 2022 European Music Competition
1st prizes - 2022 NY Laureate International Music Competition
1st prize - 2021 International Music Festival and Competition
1st & 2nd prizes in the 2021 American Protège International Woodwinds and Brass Competition
Winner - South Kansans Symphony Orchestra Concerto Competition
Winner - Topeka Symphony Orchestra Young Artist Competition
Winner - American Chamber Orchestra Concerto Competition
Winner - Sakai National Music Competition (Japan)
Alternate - MTNA Junior Woodwind Competition
3rd Prize - MTNA Senior Woodwind Competition
Positions
All-State Band Saxophone Chair
South West Japan Air Force Band