Originally from China, Professor Ping Jin is interested in the integration of Eastern and Western musical aesthetics. As a composer, he explores this interest in his own music and helps his students explore their own interest in theirs.

"I try to help my students find their own voice in their music," said Professor Jin.

Professor Jin teaches composition, music theory, electronic music and world music. In all, he has taught about a dozen different types of courses and has developed courses for the department, two of which have become general education requirements.

Professor Jin's compositions have been performed throughout the world. His most recent project is a series of pieces for a sting quartet, "each featuring a Chinese instrument," said professor Jin.

Working as both a professor and composer can be challenging. For Professor Jin, it is important to find a balance between the two.

"When I get a commission, I try to integrate my role as a composer with school," said Professor Jin.

Another way Professor Jin balances the two is by attending compositional and theory conferences, which he said enriches him as a teacher and composer by keeping him up to date on current trends in the field of music.

Why New Paltz? "The size of the college enables me to know more about my students to find their potential and work with them in different directions."

Hobbies: Reading (and listening to) Harry Potter books

Influences: "My teachers. They gave me tremendous help and were role models to me."

Little-Known fact: Professor Jin started playing violin in a professional orchestra in China at the age of 13.