Eunwha Kang, an accomplished composer, musician, and educator is shedding light on the profound and often overlooked world of church music ministry. With a rich academic background and extensive practical experience, Kang offers a unique perspective on the role of music in spiritual life, emphasizing its depth beyond mere accompaniment.
Kang’s academic journey includes a D.M.A at Texas Tech University, Master of Music in Composition from Missouri State University and a Bachelor of Music in Composition from Sookmyung Women’s University in South Korea. Her expertise is further bolstered by a Music Technology & Media Skills Certificate from Texas Tech.
Her pedagogical footprint is equally impressive, serving as an Adjunct Professor of Music at Midland College and the University of Texas Permian Basin. Her roles have spanned teaching aural skills, contemporary music, composition, and keyboard piano courses at Texas Tech University, where she also served as Instructor of Record. Her commitment to music education extends to Odessa College as a Master Professor and to years of music theory instruction in South Korea and online, alongside judging piano competitions and leading master classes.
Beyond the academic and instructional realms, Kang’s passion for music finds a profound expression in her dedicated service within church music ministries, particularly as an organist. When asked about how she approaches her role as an organist to perform with excellence, Kang emphasized the holistic nature of church music.
“I believe church music goes beyond simply playing notes—it plays a vital role in shaping the flow and spirit of worship,” she stated. Her preparation involves deep reflection on scripture and hymns, ensuring her musical selections align spiritually with the service’s theme.
“For preludes and postludes, I carefully select pieces that align with the theme of the week’s message, so that the music serves as both an introduction and a continuation of the worship experience,” she explained. She views each moment as “a living prayer,” underscoring her commitment to “play with sincerity, thoughtfulness, and reverence.”
Kang also highlighted the depth of tradition within church music, which often goes unnoticed by the casual worshipper. “Many people think of church music as simply accompaniment for worship, but in fact, it has a rich tradition that has developed over centuries,” she elucidated.
She pointed to the variations in hymn choices and musical forms according to the liturgical calendar and the structured flow of services, including organ preludes, responses, and psalm settings. “These traditions enrich the worship experience and allow music to serve not as mere decoration, but as an integral part of the liturgy itself,” she noted, distinguishing her compositional focus: “The music I compose is not contemporary worship music, but rather traditional church choir music; music written specifically for church choirs in a more liturgical or classical tradition.”
Her experience serving Texas churches has been particularly enriching. “While serving in the music ministries of various churches in Texas, I had the opportunity to worship with congregations from diverse backgrounds,” Kang shared.
This exposure illuminated the universal power of sincere music to provide “profound comfort and emotional connection.” She appreciates how congregants respond to new musical expressions, allowing her to refine her own compositions. “Above all, it has been incredibly fulfilling to contribute to the community through music and to serve others in a way that brings both spiritual and artistic meaning,” she affirmed.
Kang’s contributions to the musical landscape extend far beyond the church organ bench. She has an extensive portfolio of commissions and publications, including “An Endless River Flows,” commissioned by the Muhlenberg College Choir, and her own “Requiem,” performed by the University Choir at Texas Tech University. Her compositions span various ensembles, from “Song of the Bow” and “Twilight in Dalat” to works for treble choirs, orchestras, and mixed choirs, many of which have garnered awards.
Her role as composer-in-residence for multiple churches underscores her versatility, creating worship music and coordinating youth orchestras. As a collaborative pianist and organist, she has enriched numerous choirs and events across Texas and South Korea.
Her distinguished career is punctuated by numerous accolades, including a Music Award for Excellence in Composition from Texas Tech University, alongside competitive awards from Missouri State University and the National Chorus of Korea. Kang remains an active participant in the broader musical community, holding memberships in the Society of Composers, Texas Music Educators Association, College Music Society, and American Guild of Organists.
Through her extensive academic pursuits, innovative compositions, and heartfelt commitment to music ministry, Eunwha Kang stands as a pivotal figure, demonstrating how music, in all its forms, can elevate, educate, and deeply connect with the human spirit.