Joyce Noh is a distinguished violinist with a lifelong dedication to music.

Born in Seoul, South Korea, she began playing the violin at the age of five under the guidance of her mother, a member of the Seoul Philharmonic. She quickly gained recognition, winning numerous competitions throughout Seoul. 

In 1968, renowned writer Pearl S. Buck invited Joyce to the United States on a full scholarship to continue her studies. She trained at the New School of Music in Philadelphia -founded by Curtis String Quartet- studying with Jascha Brodsky. She spent a year at the University of Michigan, and later studied at the Juilliard School with Ivan Galamian. She also studied chamber music with Curtis String Quartet, Felix Galimir and Robert Mann at Juilliard.

Joyce began her professional career with the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, where she played from 1977 to 1979. She then joined the Chicago Symphony Orchestra (CSO), serving as a member from 1979 to 2025. She was the first Asian woman appointed to the ensemble, selected by Sir Georg Solti. She has performed with the CSO for over 46 years, working with renowned conductors such as Georg Solti, Daniel Barenboim, Leonard Bernstein and Ricardo Muti. Noh participated in 43 international tours, including the Orchestra’s first tours to Australia, Russia and South America, as well as many U.S. tours before making her final tour with the Orchestra to Europe in 2024 with Riccardo Muti.

In addition to her orchestral work, Noh regularly participated in the chamber music series of the CSO, including memorable performances as part of the longtime series in Fullerton Hall at the Art Institute of Chicago. She was on the board of the “Sejong Cultural Society” in Chicago and also served as a judge for its competition. Joyce has appeared as a soloist with the Seoul Philharmonic Orchestra and has performed in recitals and chamber music concerts across the U.S. She has also been featured on television and radio, including WFMT live broadcasts. 

As an educator, Joyce has over 30 years of teaching experience, mentoring students who have gone on to top music schools and professional careers. She is also involved in community outreach, performing and teaching in public schools to promote music education. She was also a member of CSO ensembles that performed in Chicago area schools, as well as at various community organizations for seniors and those with disabilities in support of music education and community engagement activities over the years.