Hanna Choi’s deep appreciation for music started when she took piano lessons for over 10 years growing up in South Korea. So when she had an opportunity to join the Winspear Centre and Edmonton Symphony Orchestra, she was thrilled to be able to pursue her passion for music.
“I firmly believe that a society that is rich in art fosters stronger communities and individual well-being,” Choi says. “Music, arts and cultural experiences should be accessible to everyone.”
Choi likes making quality music accessible to all. And she likes promoting living composers — specifically female and Indigenous creators — who are often underrepresented in arts programming, through the Winspear’s membership program, which she created. “I remember a survey respondent said that [the membership] made them take a chance on a concert they wouldn’t have otherwise considered, and they were pleasantly surprised. It was especially meaningful to me because they went to a concert for new music from emerging composers.”
Choi is also actively involved in the revival of the Arts District around Churchill Square, to raise awareness of the arts and cultural offerings downtown. “Not every city has an Arts District, so I think for Edmonton to commit to making it a distinct brand really makes a statement and shows what the city values. It’s all about enhancing the quality of life for everyone in the city.”
This article appears in the Nov/Dec 2024 issue of Edify
