Who or what inspired you to take up the piano and pursue a career in music?
I was fortunate to be born into an artistic family that opened the door for me to explore music when I was very young. While both my parents were not in the music business, my dad had a strong passion for classical music. He exposed me to the grace and magnificence of classical music as early as I can remember. I began to love classical music under his influence and wanted to carry his passion forward. I started learning piano at the age of four and had my first public performance at age of six, by then piano has become an integral part of my life.
Who or what were the most important influences on your musical life and career?
I had the privilege to be tutored by some of the most skilled and talented pianists in my budding career. Every one of them had taught me different aspects in mastering the piano, notably for techniques, discipline and emotion.
In my years in Royal Academy of Music, I studied under Professor Carole Presland. Under her rigorous tutorage, I was able to build a solid foundation in piano works and her relentless pursuit of perfection imparted to me. She had vastly increased my exposures to various composers and repertoires, laying paths for me to explore the immense universe of classical music. Her passion for music still inspires me deeply today that I always set higher targets for myself and only achieve the best that I can be.
Professor Paul Janes coached me during my Masters of Performance studies in Royal Northern College of Music. He is very meticulous and trained me to focus on the small, intrinsic parts of a play. As such, I refined my piano techniques enormously under his guidance. At the same time, he helped me to develop my interpretation and control in higher forms of classical music. This allowed me to inject my emotions into details during performances, thereby representing classical music in my very own style.
I was honored to be coached by Deniz Gelenbe for my Artist diploma: she helped me to refine my style. Critically, she opened my eyes to look at each piece of performance in an art form more than a demonstration. I am also very grateful for all the opportunities that she presented to me to achieve further in my performance career.
Last but not least, Professor Gabriele Bolducci inspired me deeply with his passion and showed me the dedication and romantic side of music. He taught me to strike the perfect balance between control and spontaneous during a performance, as well as to comprehend music deeply from within the heart.
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