Reviews

... The soloist in the Beethoven piano concerto was Sung-Im Kim, winner of the 1996 Haverhill Sinfonia Soloist Competition, whose diminutive form belied a tremendous power and massive technique, despite being saddled with a disappointing piano to play.
This was a delightfully Romantic rendering, in the true early 19th century meaning of the word, not laying a later sentimentality on the soothing slow movement or overblowing the dramas of the first movement.
The orchestra complemented this reading excellently, strings sweeping but not cloying, and conductor Kevin Hill sensitive to every nuance, particularly in the vigorous rondo. ...
David Hart, Haverhill Echo, 22 May 1997

... The compulsory work of the final stage in this competition, Ravel's Gaspard de la Nuit, is of a very high standard in contents, technique and range. It is one of the most difficult pieces for concerts and international competitions. This piece was selected for the final stage of this competition. It seems this has reduced the number of entrants. We were concerned the standard of playing might suffer as a result, but it has not.
Four pianists made it to the final. Each player had different qualities, but we were pleased all of them performed well.
Miss Sung-Im Kim was awarded the first prize. Her playing demonstrated deep and natural music flow. Her performance … showed outstanding technique. ...
Professor Jin-Woo Jung, Joong-Ang Daily News, 25 March 1991

... Sung-Im Kim delivered a brilliant finale. She played Brahms' Variations and fugue on a theme by Handel with fine control.
This work is one of Brahms' most difficult piano pieces. Technically and musically it requires experience, talent and great expressive skill. And it demands much of the pianist's power and stamina.
Sung-Im Kim has all of these. Her playing is particularly remarkable for its clear tone and her powerful and dynamic touch. The smooth connection between the variations and the well-organised interpretation shows she has given much thought to the work. ...
Eum-Ak Chun Chu Piano Music Magazine, December 1991