Earl Kim

Earl Kim, a pioneering Korean-American composer and educator, left an indelible mark on the world of modernist music. Born in 1920 to Korean immigrants in Dinuba, California, Kim's early musical talents led him to study under luminaries like Arnold Schoenberg, Ernest Bloch, and Roger Sessions. His extensive work in music theatre, particularly his collaborations with Samuel Beckett, showcased his expressive, often tonal style. Kim's career spanned teaching at prestigious institutions like Princeton and Harvard, where he mentored younger composers. Recognized with numerous awards, including the Prix de Paris and the National Institute Arts and Letters award, Kim's compositions valued economy, precision, and quietude. His legacy endures through his influential work and the upcoming documentary film "Earl," directed by Ty Kim, which promises to share his inspiring life and music with a new generation.