Dr. GaYoung Lee, Adjunct Faculty of Piano and Collaborative Pianist and Coach at the Dewberry School of Music (CVPA), George Mason University, is renowned for her sensitive artistry, vivid tonal palette, and expressive musicality, and is widely sought after as both a soloist and collaborative pianist on international stages. At George Mason University, Dr. Lee serves as a principal opera pianist and coach, working closely with singers, conductors, and directors in the preparation of full opera productions. In addition to her work in opera, she coaches vocalists and instrumentalists in recitals, auditions, and masterclasses, and regularly collaborates with students and faculty across a wide range of repertoire.

In addition, since 2022, she has served as the official collaborative pianist for the Spanish Young Music Talents (SYMT) program, in partnership with the Embassy of Spain, supporting exceptional young artists from Spain in cross-cultural performance settings. This role highlights her deep commitment to collaboration and mentorship on a global scale.

Her passion for chamber music led to the co-founding of the Potomac Piano Trio, which has performed extensively throughout the United States. Her chamber performances are marked by precision, expressive depth, and profound musical connection.

Dr. LShe holds a Doctor of Musical Arts in Piano Performance from George Mason University, where she studied under Dr. Linda Apple Monson, Director of the School of Music. During her doctoral studies, she served as a Graduate Teaching Assistant in Collaborative Piano, coaching vocal and instrumental students in recitals, lessons, and masterclasses. Her academic credentials also include a Master of Music in Piano Performance from George Mason University, a Bachelor of Music from the Catholic University of Korea, and additional graduate studies at Ewha Womans University in Seoul. She received the Achievement Award in Graduate Performance twice—once during her Master’s studies and again during her Doctoral studies—along with the Dr. Linda Apple Monson Endowment Award and the College of Visual and Performing Arts Scholarship.

Her competition success includes First Prize from The Piano Society of Korea, Second Place in both the Young Artist Piano Concours and Brahms Concours, a Gold Medal at the Grand Maestro International Music Competition, and a Silver Medal at the North American Virtuoso International Music Competition. Dr. Lee was also awarded the top prize at the Annual Competition held by the Seoul National Symphony Orchestra and later won George Mason’s Concerto Competition, where she delivered a stunning performance of Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 4 with the Mason Symphony Orchestra to unanimous acclaim. Most recently, she was a recipient of the 2025 American Classical Music Award (ACMA).

With a career spanning solo performance, chamber music, and collaborative artistry, Dr. GaYoung Lee continues to inspire audiences and colleagues alike with her dedication, musical insight, and passion for the art of performance.

https://music.gmu.edu/profiles/glee38

https://www.kennedy-center.org/artists/l/la-ln/gayoung-lee/

https://music.gmu.edu/academics/selected-specialty-areas/keyboard