“Here is a simple fact: with artistry such as Ms. Byun’s, the state-of-the-art of guitar performance has reached a new level.”
A recipient of the 2023 Avery Fisher Career Grant, Bokyung Byun has firmly established herself as one of the most compelling classical guitarists of her generation. Beyond her technical brilliance, she is celebrated for cultivating an intimate connection with her audiences, delivering performances that feel deeply personal and refreshingly approachable.
This unique blend of warmth and virtuosity has earned her international acclaim. Byun made history as the first female winner of the prestigious JoAnn Falletta International Guitar Concerto Competition, where Maestra Falletta praised her playing as “stunning, showcasing her gorgeous tone, immaculate technique, and sophisticated musicianship.” Her artistry has been further recognized with grand prizes at both the Guitar Foundation of America (GFA) International Concert Artist Competition and the Montreal International Classical Guitar Competition.
"Amazing technical abilities, a powerful and luscious sound, and a profound sense of musical interpretation."
A sought-after concerto soloist, recitalist, and chamber musician, Byun has appeared on some of the world’s most distinguished stages, including Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and the Seoul Arts Center. Her artistry is equally evident in her recordings: her Naxos Laureate Series album was named a Critics’ Choice in 2022 by American Record Guide, which noted her playing as “reminiscent of Andrés Segovia.”
Deeply committed to the future of her instrument, Byun curates performances that celebrate the rich heritage of the classical guitar while championing new voices. “It’s vital and exciting to audiences for concerts to join the new with the old," she says. "For guitar music to continue to grow, I believe that new works must actively be cultivated... it is my hope that audiences leave my performances with new experiences.” This dedication has led to dynamic collaborations with contemporary composers, highlighted by her recent sold-out premiere performances of Nicky Sohn's Guitar Concerto No. 1 with the Albany Symphony.
Born in Seoul, Korea, Byun began playing the guitar at age six after a chance encounter with a televised guitar performance that left a lasting impression. A teenage phenom, she quickly garnered top prizes in international youth competitions before moving to the United States to attend The Juilliard School at the age of sixteen. She holds Bachelor of Music and Master of Music degrees from The Juilliard School and a Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the University of Southern California. Teachers and mentors include Tae-Soo Kim, Chen Zhi, William Kanengiser, Sharon Isbin, and Scott Tennant.
Now based in Texas, she is on faculty at the University of North Texas shaping the next generation of guitarists. She also serves as Artistic Director of the Guitar Foundation of America International Youth Competition and is co-founder and Artistic Director of Guitarlab Intensives. Byun is an Augustine Strings artist.