I’m Ryan Yan, a 15-year-old sophomore at the Peddie School in Hightstown, New Jersey. I started learning music when I was five—first piano, then cello, which I quickly fell in love with because of its rich, emotional sound and how personal it feels. Playing the cello gives me a way to express myself that words sometimes can’t.
Over the years, I’ve continued to grow as a musician through weekly lessons, intensive summer programs like the Junior Division at the Heifetz Institute (which I attended for two summers), and frequent solo performances as well as ensemble work. At Peddie, I perform in several school orchestras and chamber groups, and I’m currently excited to serve as a cello section leader in one of my ensembles.
Outside of school, I’ve selected as a member of the New Jersey All-State High School Orchestra and Central Jersey regional orchestras since sixth grade. I’ve also earned recognition in national and international music competitions on both cello and piano.
Music has taught me discipline, creativity, and how to connect with others through performance. It’s been a huge part of my life, and I’m excited to keep learning, performing, and growing as a musician.
Watch Ryan Weize Yan perform Elgar Concerto in e minor: IV. Allegro by Edward Elgar on the cello for the 2026 Winter Music Competition as part of the Charleston International Music Competition.