At the Stand: A Conversation with Dana Chung

At the Stand

A Conversation with Dana Chung

Learning to live with music.

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A YoungArts Winner with Distinction and alumna of both Juilliard Pre-College and Bergen County Academies, Dana Chung is one of the most quietly remarkable musicians we've had the privilege of working with. Rigorous and deeply analytical, she heads to Brown University this fall to study environmental science — with plans to keep playing violin and viola, and eventually, to own a farm. We're so excited for what's ahead — and honored to share her story here.

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Dana with her friends on the Juilliard Pre-College graduation day (2026)

When did you first discover your love for music, and what drew you to it?

I first discovered my love for music when I began playing with other people. Chamber music became my favorite way to connect with others and discover a new side to my playing.

How would you describe yourself outside of music?

I would describe myself as energetic and determined. A lot of people say that I laugh and smile a lot but I feel that I also tend to work hard towards my goals.

International Grande Music Competition Winners Recital (2017)

Dana at her First New York Youth Symphony Concert at Carnegie Hall with her sister Bori (2022)

What accomplishment are you most proud of during your high school years?

The achievement I am most proud of is my personal development musically, emotionally, and as a person in general. If I were to point out a singular musical achievement I am most proud of, I would say winning YoungArts Winner with Distinction in Classical Music was a big honor.

What has been the biggest challenge you've faced, and what did you learn from it?

The biggest challenge I've faced is struggling with self-criticism. I feel like I've always judged myself and my work which made it difficult to be content and satisfied. But over the years I've learned to accept my failures and mistakes and to be grateful for my current achievements instead of always seeking out for more.

I've learned to accept my failures and mistakes and to be grateful for my current achievements instead of always seeking out for more.

Dana performing at YoungArts

YoungArts Classical Music group photo

What role has music played in your personal growth over the years?

Music has played such a vital role in my personal growth. It embodies so much in my life. I would say it is one of my biggest outlets. Through music I've met so many new friends, had unique experiences, and learned about myself and the type of person I am. Music has taught me to be patient, meticulous, but also creative and fun.

Through music I've met so many new friends, had unique experiences, and learned about myself and the type of person I am.

Is there a performance, competition, or musical moment that feels especially meaningful to you? Why?

Yes, I would say my last concert with my senior year quartet at the Juilliard Pre-College was one of my favorite performances. My favorite chamber group of all time was my senior year quartet. We had a lot of fun throughout the year and really bonded during our time together. For our last concert we decided to all wear suits! I thought that was really cute.

Dana with her Juilliard Pre-College Senior Year Quartet and Mentor (2026)

Dana with Kim Kashkashian at Heifetz Institute (2022)

What are some of your interests or passions outside of music?

One of my main interests outside of music is environmental science. I feel it is one of the most important areas of study today. I plan to major in environmental studies in college.

Which school will you be attending, and what are you most excited about as you begin this next chapter?

I will be attending Brown University this fall. I am most excited about being in a new space and exploring the new community I will be joining. I am also looking forward to becoming more independent and learning how to be more self-reliant.

What goals, aspirations, or dreams do you hope to pursue in the future?

I hope to own a farm later on in life. Regardless of my "main occupation" I hope to have a vegetable farm. I also plan to continue playing violin and viola throughout my life and in college.

Looking back on your journey so far, what are you most grateful for?

I am most grateful for my parents and the opportunities they gave me by opening the initial doors. Everything that I've had the chance to learn, work-hard for, and achieve was due to the environment I was lucky enough to grow up in.

Do you have any words of wisdom for younger students who hope to follow a similar path? Additionally, is there a message you hope to communicate to the world through your music?

I would say to do your best to discern the difference between hard work and overworking yourself. Personally, I have dealt with burnout multiple times through music and academics. Taking care of yourself and your wellbeing should be the number one priority regardless of how important the event, competition, or application is that you have coming up. As for the message, I think we should all remember that music is meant to be enjoyable for both the player and the audience. The goal of playing an instrument should always be to have fun.

Music is meant to be enjoyable for both the player and the audience. The goal of playing an instrument should always be to have fun.

Dana’s first photo in front of the Juilliard building (2017)

Dana’s Juilliard Pre-College Senior Recital (2026)