A Fresh and Relatable Blend of Music, Story, and Art
As a piano teacher, I deeply appreciate how this book highlights that music is not just about the notes, but about life, meaning, and connection. The inclusion of artwork (of which I cannot even begin to imagine the effort required to put it together), significantly enriches the reading experience.The QR codes are a brilliant touch, leading to Jeeyoon Kim’s superb recordings. Her interpretations balance personal sensibility with a deep respect for each composer’s intent. The repertoire selection itself is delightful, offering a thoughtful mix of well-known favorites and hidden gems. Pair that with her strong storytelling ability and it makes for a type of book that I've never experienced before.The hardcover format and full-color interior make it feel premium, rather than just another book to store in your bookshelf. This is not just a book to read, but one to return to for inspiration. And, it is simply beautiful to look at!
Beyond the Keys
amin espandiari
A Book That Feels Like a Concert for the Soul
Beyond the Keys is not just a book; it’s a complete sensory journey. Jeeyoon Kim invites you into her world as a concert pianist, sharing 52 reflections that touch on life, creativity, and the search for beauty in everyday moments.The result is an experience that is part memoir, part philosophy, part performance. It is as though you are seated in a private concert hall, surrounded by music and art, while listening to a trusted friend share her wisdom. The writing is heartfelt and inspiring, and the artwork ties it all together in a way that stays with you long after you close the book.This isn’t simply something you read; it’s something you feel. A treasure for anyone who values music, art, and soulful reflection. Highly recommended!
Beyond the Keys
Daniel Kelly
Beautiful, heartfelt, and inspiring
Jeeyoon Kim’s Beyond the Keys is a graceful fusion of memoir, music, and visual art. Each short essay offers a personal window into her life as a concert pianist, paired with a QR code linking to one of her solo piano performances and an original artwork. Her reflections on creativity, identity, and resilience resonate deeply, whether or not you're a musician. It's a calming, thoughtful and beautiful book.
Beyond the Keys
Karen T
52 white keys, 52 weeks, 52 moments to reflect and cherish
You don’t need to be a musician to appreciate and love this book.The artwork alone is stunning and vibrant, sometimes whimsical. The author’s personal stories spark a range of emotions. The piano performances (accessed via QR code) are artistically brilliant. Together, the whole is greater than the sum of these parts, creating a one-of-a-kind exceptional book whose 52 short chapters can be read in any order and cherished at any time.This is a book that I will come back to time and time again, whenever a few moments of calm reflection or inspiration are needed.
Beyond the Keys
Anthony K
Inspiring! A true work of art... GOOD FOR THE SOUL. ❤
When I first got my hands on 'Beyond the Keys' by Jeeyoon Kim, my first thought was, “This might be the most visually stunning book I’ve ever seen!” Then, as I began reading the stories one by one, I was completely drawn into her world—moved by the honesty, depth, and wisdom in her reflections on life’s joys and struggles. These 52 short pieces invite you into the heart and mind of a world-class concert pianist who writes with rare vulnerability and pure-hearted sincerity.Each chapter is paired with a contemporary artwork, adding a fresh visual dimension to the writing. The pairing feels so natural that I often found myself pausing to linger over the art before continuing with her words. Together, they form a thoughtful and beautiful dialogue between image and story.What truly sets this book apart, however, is its seamless integration of music. Every story includes a QR code linking to one of Jeeyoon’s own performances, on audio or video. The synergy between story and music is magical—joyful reflections paired with uplifting tunes, tender moments with profoundly moving piano pieces. Reading her words and then hearing her voice through the piano creates an immersive experience unlike any book I’ve encountered.Beyond the Keys is at once a book, an art gallery, and a concert hall. It is beautifully written, beautifully presented, and endlessly inspiring. This is a work to return to again and again—whether for comfort, reflection, or a reminder of life’s beauty. I cannot recommend it highly enough for both music listeners and music makers. It is a true work of art. Bravo, Jeeyoon!
