Since January 2017, when I was just five years old, I have been immersed in the world of music, starting with piano. My first teacher, Jennifer, made learning piano enjoyable, despite the frustrations I had early on. After switching teachers a few times, including the brief period of time where my mother taught me, I eventually found my current teacher, Ye (Emily) Zheng. Although I didn’t initially love it, I’ve grown to appreciate both the instrument and the art behind it. In addition to piano, I picked up violin in 2021 and learned through school, eventually joining orchestra in middle school and further expanding my knowledge in instruments.
Watch Steffi Ruiyan Lau perform The Lark by Glinka/Balakirev on the piano for the 19th Century Music Competition 2025 as part of the Charleston International Music Competition.