Heon Kim is a classically trained violinist based in Munich, currently serving as the general manager of Echo Arts. ​Having held both principal and concertmaster roles in orchestras until 2020, Heon chose to focus on creating and managing music festivals and masterclasses, by combining world renowned artists, artisans, and students in an effort to create a unique space for music and arts to flourish.​

 

Since its inception, Echo Arts has been able to attract leading musicians and artists such as Steven Isserlis, Tomo Keller, Lawrence Power, Maximillian Hornung, among others. And as of 2023, through the generous sponsorship of both private and corporate donors, Echo has been able to open a String Quartet component in collaboration with the Schumann Quartett, where aspiring Quartets are given the chance to be mentored by and to work intensively with the Schumann Quartet for a week at Echo Arts head quarters. The first edition concluded successfully in 2024, which was held in collaboration with the University of Sydney. ​

 

Heon has recently launched the ECHO ENSEMBLE, which will serve as the primary concert platform for Echo, and it will connect students with established artists through a series of concerts in Autumn '26 - led by the incoming Artistic Director. ​

 

Echo Arts is also involved in outreach projects where concerts are provided for the homeless at its headquarters in collaboration  with Caritas - providing music during Caritas' complimentary meal programs. Other outreach components involve free access to our programs for local churches, schools and hospitals.​

 

Furthermore, in 2026, Echo Arts will be welcoming one of the largest Youth Orchestras from Melbourne, Australia, for a week in June/July, with a concert being prepared in collaboration with both the Australian​ and Chinese Embassies based in Germany, and the Musikverein in Vienna. ​

 

The aim of Echo Arts is to create a cultural hub in the centre of Munich where creators can meet to discuss, explore and to grow together - where leaders of our industry come to mentor our students, helping them to open their minds through dialogue, research, and the power of music. ​

 

Echo serves as a symbol of connection and humanity, and under its current direction, it will continue to do its utmost to further link with other organisations and demographics to decorate and support our world with our music and friendship.