By: David Pierre
On October 6th, the Concert Star Award Ceremony lit up the stage at the Weill Recital Hall in Carnegie Hall, New York. This memorable event featured 22 talented performers from various corners of the United States and beyond, including artists from Italy, France, England, China, and Mongolia. Each musician traveled considerable distances to present their unique musical interpretations, weaving together an extraordinary talent showcase.
From Tianjin to Los Angeles: A Global Musical Voyage
Yaqi Wang’s musical adventure began in Tianjin, China, where she obtained her Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance. This foundational experience opened the door to her extensive journey across the globe. Yaqi further honed her skills in the United States, earning her Master’s degree from Temple University and a Graduate Professional Diploma from the esteemed Hartt School at the University of Hartford. Each academic achievement not only highlighted her exceptional talent but also underscored her relentless pursuit of excellence.
In a world where music has the power to move hearts and ignite passions, Yaqi emerges as a shining example of talent and dedication. Currently pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts with dual focuses in Piano Performance and Pedagogy at the University of Kansas, her journey is a blend of hard work, creativity, and an enduring love for music that resonates through every performance. As she nears the completion of her doctorate, Yaqi has evolved from a student to a prominent educator and leader in the music community.
Now residing in Los Angeles, Yaqi is gearing up for her upcoming paper defenses while embracing her piano instructor role. At her piano studio, she inspires young musicians through her teaching, incorporating music theory and appreciation into her curriculum. “Teaching is as rewarding as performing,” she shares. “Seeing my students grow is what keeps me motivated.”
Her future recital plans include regular Clarity studio performances at Arcadia Community Church, a piano duet showcase at the Curtis Theatre, and the unveiling of her new Chinese compositions at Walt Disney Hall. Through each initiative, Yaqi continues to inspire those around her, solidifying her status in the dynamic world of music.
A Rising Star
Yaqi’s performance career is a testament to her dreams coming to fruition. During her time as a teaching assistant at the Art Service Center for Scholars in Beijing, she had the invaluable opportunity to assist with masterclasses led by jurors from the Chopin International Piano Competition and esteemed professors from leading music conservatories in Europe and the United States. After attending the entire Van Cliburn Piano Competition in Fort Worth in June 2022, she journeyed to the birthplace of Frédéric Chopin in Warsaw, Poland. She participated in masterclasses there and reconnected with jury members Andrzej Jasinski and Wojciech Świtała at the Akademia Muzyczna in Katowice. The following year, she showcased her exceptional artistry by performing Beethoven’s No. 4 Piano Concerto with the Grammy-nominated St. Petersburg Quartet.
Photo Courtesy: David Pierre/Yaqi Wang
Yaqi Wang meet Andrzej Jasinski and Wojciech Świtała in Katowice
Leading Beyond the Stage
As the founder and artistic director of Concert Star, Yaqi exemplifies her unwavering commitment to the arts. In this capacity, she organizes events that entertain and enhance the community’s appreciation for classical music. “I believe in music’s ability to unite people,” she shares. “Every concert is a chance to connect and share our love for music.”
Yaqi’s influence stretches beyond her performances and teaching. As the Vice President of the International Classical Music Alliance (ICMA), she plays a vital role in orchestrating events advocating classical music education and performance. Upcoming ICMA initiatives include a winter camp at The Phoenix Hall in Osaka, Japan, and an Asian Art Fusion exhibition in Atlanta, Georgia. This role allows her to leverage her organizational talents to support emerging artists and cultivate a passion for classical music within the community.
Building a Digital Presence
In today’s digital landscape, where an online presence can elevate an artist’s visibility, Yaqi has taken on this challenge by launching a music-focused YouTube channel and engaging with audiences on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Her doctoral research investigates “Online Educational Piano Video Tutorials: Surveying and Perspectives on the Evolution of Technology in Piano Education.” She conducted a comprehensive survey among piano educators, gathering insights on their attitudes towards and using online piano video tutorials.
Additionally, she delivered a compelling presentation on this topic at the IPPA conference in July 2024, examining the various types of online piano tutorials available and evaluating their engagement levels. “I aim to create accessible pathways to classical music for everyone,” she states. “Social media is a powerful means to reach new audiences.”
Photo Courtesy: David Pierre/Yaqi Wang
Yaqi Wang Present her Online Video Tutorial Topic in IPPA conference
A Promising Future
As Yaqi Wang continues to navigate her musical journey, her ambitions are as expansive as her performances. With plans to grow her teaching studio and host more community events, she envisions a future where music is integral to every community. Her story is a powerful reminder of music’s transformative nature—illustrating how dedication and passion can lead to personal success and inspire others along the way. In Yaqi’s words, “Music is a journey, not just a destination.” With each note she plays, she invites us all to share in that journey.
For updates, visit her website: YaqiWangPiano.com
Published by: Martin De Juan
