Virtuoso pianist Son Yeol-eum is stepping down as the host of MBC’s classical music program “TV Art Show.”

Terrestrial broadcaster MBC announced that Son, who has been hosting the show since 2018, will be leaving “TV Art Show,” seeking to spend more time on her career and overseas performances.

Though many viewers were surprised when the much sought-after pianist who performs around the world joined the show, she became the longest-serving host of “TV Art Show.”

“With the love for classical music, Son has put her utmost effort to balance her life as a renowned pianist and the host of the program. Viewers can watch Son’s last episode and her special performance in the upcoming ‘TV Art Show,’” MBC said in a press release Monday.

The 35-year-old pianist will be performing as a soloist, with a chamber ensemble and with an orchestra.

Son, based in Germany, studied under pianist and conductor Arie Vardi at the Hanover University of Music, Drama and Media. She was the double Second Prize winner at the Tchaikovsky International Piano Competition in 2011. She has been the artistic director of the country’s largest classical music festival, PyeongChang Music Festival & School, since 2018.

The last episode of Son’s “TV Art Show” is set to air Wednesday at 1 a.m. on MBC. Replays will also be available on the official website of the program.

By Lee Si-jin (sj_lee@heraldcorp.com)