Columbia?s classical secret

Singing with her fingers, the international pianist will play works by Haydn, Chopin, Bach, Schubert and Ravel for the latest concert in a monthly series sponsored by the nonprofit organization Sundays at Three.

“A lot of people in the Baltimore area are not aware of what terrific talents live near them. Eun is one of those exceptional neighbors. She has extensive international experience,” said Harry Glass, vice president of Sundays at Three.

Originally from Korea, Chung began playing piano at 4 when her mother enrolled her in music lessons. By 14, she knew piano was her life. “I was very shy and not talking very much. Playing was the only thing that made me feel good,” she said. “It was an outlet to express my feelings. I didn?t know any other way. I grew up in a very strict family ? always following routine, studying all the time and doing my responsibilities. Music became my friend.”

During the concert on a grand piano, Chung will play six solo pieces contrasting in styles and periods. “The Ravel piece uses the entire keyboard from the very bottom to the top. It is technically demanding ? written in an attempt to sound like the entire orchestra,” Chung said. “When I?m playing solo music, I can make it my own world and do what I want. As a soloists you can take your time, make it your own thing.”

Chung, the 2000 World Piano Champion, wants audiences to familiarize themselves with classical music because “you cannot love it unless you know it,” she said. “The trend right now is pop but I?m hoping in my lifetime the pendulum will swing back to classical. People should try to get to know it.”

After Sunday?s concert, audience members can speak with Chung about her interpretations of the waltzes and sonatas performed.

If you go

Eun Joo Chung ? Sundays at Three

» Venue: Christ Episcopal Church, 6800 Oakland Mills Road, Columbia

» Time: 3 p.m. Sunday

» Cost: $15 adults; $10 full-time students; free for anyone under 18 accompanied by an adult

» Info: www.sundaysatthree.org