Check Out You Zhao’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to You Zhao.

Hi You, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
It all began when I started learning the piano as a simple hobby around the age of 5. From that early age, music became an integral part of my life, shaping my path and setting me on a course of self-discovery. Interestingly, while my parents never envisioned me pursuing a professional career in music, they hoped I get to learn the importance of persistence. So, no matter how busy I was with my schoolwork, I never stopped playing, just continuously moving my fingers across the keyboard.

When the time came to apply for college, I made the decision to study music, with a primary focus on solo piano performance. Back then, it felt completely natural to me, as music had already played such a vital role in my life. Little did I know that my college life would open up a whole new world of possibilities and transform my journey in ways I could never have imagined. During my college years, I had the incredible privilege of working with many voice major students and creating memorable collaborations. It feels like a “happy accident” that I discovered an immense joy in playing with other musicians, even more than enjoying the spotlight on stage by myself. My family and teachers really had my back and cheered me on as I discovered this newfound passion for being a collaborative artist.

Upon graduation, fueled by my determination, I embarked on a new adventure far away from home, moving to the United States to pursue advanced professional training as a collaborative pianist. It has been almost a decade now since that life-changing decision, and throughout this incredible journey, I have lived in three different cities, battled through some crazy snowstorms with my mighty snow-shoveling skills on the east coast, baked in California sunshine, and earned my doctoral degree. I have been very fortunate to study with extraordinary mentors who have guided and inspired me, affiliated with distinguished music institutions and surrounded by very supportive friends and colleagues. Their encouragement has had a profound positive impact on my growth and achievements. Dreams like spending summers studying at renowned summer festivals, participating in international competitions, performing on prestigious concert venues, and having interactions with influential figures in the classical music world have all come true for me. In February of this year, I had the incredible opportunity to make my Carnegie debut as a SongStudio Young Artist under the leadership of the esteemed soprano Renée Fleming. She has always been one of my childhood idols, and to have the chance to study with her was truly surreal. Performing at Carnegie Hall was such an unforgettable experience. This performance holds special meaning to me as it takes me back to the February of ten years ago when I came to the States with my mom and took auditions for graduate schools. Finally, after years of dedicated training, I now work as a professional collaborative pianist, vocal coach, and piano instructor in the vibrant Los Angeles area.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I wish I could say things were going very well without too many obstacles on my journey, but unfortunately that is not true. If I had known the challenges that awaited me, I might have hesitated to even start it. It reminds me of a marriage, where the initial excitement eventually gives way to unexpected difficulties.

First of all, as an international student moving to a new country,I encountered the challenges of adapting to a new culture. Everything felt unfamiliar, and even the simplest tasks like taking a bus became challenging. Effective communication with my teachers once was a struggle, and I often found myself frustrated by the language barrier. I vividly recall being required to take the entrance examination during the orientation week, and I found myself struggling to even just understand what some of the questions asked for. I did a poor job on that, and to be honest. It was definitely a bit of a letdown for me.

I was very fortunate to be accepted into the esteemed Eastman School of Music for my master’s degree. However, being surrounded by incredibly talented and intelligent musicians was both inspiring and intimidating. I lacked confidence in my own abilities, constantly doubting my playing, my projects, and even my homework.

Additionally, as part of being a collaborative piano major student, I need to learn several European languages, for example, German, French, and Italian. This is crucial for a deeper understanding and interpretation of poetry and song texts, which is especially important for a collaborative pianist focused on vocal music and literature. It allows us to connect with the rich cultural and linguistic nuances embedded in the music, making our performances more meaningful and expressive. Learning these languages in addition to English, which is already my secondary language, provided a tremendous challenge for me.

Another significant challenge I faced was the demanding nature of being a collaborative pianist. I had to quickly learn many new pieces within a relatively short amount of time to meet the needs of my musical partners, constantly juggling multiple tasks. Adjusting to the fast-paced demands while maintaining a high standard of performance quality was a constant learning process.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Currently, I hold positions at Bob Cole Conservatory of Music at California State University Long Beach and California School of Arts — San Gabriel Valley, all of which have played an important role in shaping my career as a collaborative pianist. These positions have afforded me invaluable opportunities to engage in coaching singers, explore exciting and diverse repertoire, contribute to opera productions as part of a collaborative team, as well as continuously encounter new challenges that have driven my growth as a musician, teacher, and individual.

Another aspect that can be a bit challenging in these positions is to interact and collaborate with students at different ages, which has been immensely fulfilling and also intellectually stimulating. It is not merely about teaching music; it is about understanding their journey at various stages of life. Making music can evoke a mix of emotions, it is not only about beauty and joy, sometimes it can also bring feelings of confusion and frustration. In these moments, the students need an “extra ear” and I find myself being very good at listening. As a collaborative pianist, I understand the importance of attentive listening to ensure synchronization with my musical partners. But not only for the sake of musically being together, also observe any underlying struggles or personal challenges that may manifest through their musical expressions. I genuinely believe that you can learn who you are through learning and making music, and I am grateful for the opportunity to utilize my expertise to enrich their lives, nurturing their growth not only as musicians but also as individuals, and hope to leave a positive impact through their musical studies.

On top of my roles at various institutions, I’m actively engaged as a freelance collaborative pianist. I’ve been incredibly lucky to receive invitations to perform at local competitions, auditions, and other musical events. Contributing to these occasions and supporting my musical partners brings me genuine happiness. Whether it’s in a fierce competition, the nerve-wracking setting of an audition, or even just a private lesson, I find great joy in assisting and collaborating with my fellow musicians.

One of my most unforgettable recent experiences was performing as the principal piano with the Burbank Philharmonic Orchestra. Being able to play with the orchestra was a rewarding experience that further developed my skills as a collaborative pianist. It reminded me that learning never ends. As a collaborative pianist, I am genuinely grateful for the diverse range of events we have the opportunity to contribute to, each offering unique challenges and rewards, allowing me to continually refine my craft and expand my musical horizons.

Beyond my work as a collaborative pianist, I have also embraced the role of a piano instructor. I have a substantial number of students whom I teach on a weekly basis. To continue with the idea that learning never ends, teaching has been a profound learning experience for me. I feel extremely fortunate to have had exceptional mentors who guided and supported me so much throughout my musical journey, and now I am committed to passing on that positive experience to the next generation. I strive to share the happiness that music brings me with each and every one of them.

I hold a strong belief in the influential power of attitude in achieving success. The passion and love I have for music and collaborative art have guided me on this path. Ultimately, what nurtures my deep respect for my profession and constantly motivates me to pursue growth is the sincere and earnest attitude.

Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
Recently, I revisited one of my all-time favorite books, “Steal Like an Artist: 10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative.” by Austin Kleon. I remember my conducting teacher suggesting it when I was a doctoral student. Even though I’ve read it before, the book serves as a constant source of inspiration, reminding me to explore new ideas and approach my work as a musician with fresh perspectives. I have been recognized as a “good student.”, but as I grew up, there are times that I wished I could have the courage or even just a motive to think more outside of the box. It is during these moments of self-reflection that I often turn to this book. I am also amazed at how reading this book at different stages of my life evokes such diverse feelings within me. It feels like another good friend who is always walking beside me and supporting me through various stages of my journey.

Contact Info:

• Youtube: www.youtube.com/@youzhao276/featured

Image Credits
Personal Shot: Kaori Suzuki Additional photo: Anthony Popolo (the one of me playing at the piano); Jennifer Taylor (the one of me playing with one male singer); Ju Chia Lee (the one I am wearing my doctoral gown)