I began formal piano training at the age of thirteen. Although I started relatively late and have received only about six months of formal instruction, my passion and dedication have enabled me to make significant progress in a short time. Through persistent independent practice and a keen sensitivity to music, I am now able to master pieces that demand both technical proficiency and emotional depth, while gradually developing a unique interpretive style. During my studies, I have actively participated in various small-scale piano performances, both on and off campus. Each time I step onto the stage, it serves as a valuable opportunity for growth and refinement. From the initial nervousness of facing an audience to the confidence I now feel in communicating through my music, these experiences have not only improved my performance stability but also taught me how to express emotion and master the “breathing” and atmosphere of the music. I cherish every performance opportunity, as I firmly believe that the true value of music lies not merely in technical display, but in the ability to genuinely touch people’s hearts. Beyond performance, I have also explored music arrangement at school. This process has allowed me to understand musical structure and layering from a different perspective—learning how to harmonize melodies, shape the phrasing, and create interplay between different musical voices. It has broadened my musical horizons and deepened my appreciation for the subtle relationship between composition and interpretation. Through arranging, I have learned the importance of listening, making choices, and finding balance; these skills have, in turn, enriched my piano playing, adding greater depth and thoughtfulness to my interpretations. I have never taken piano grading exams, nor do I hold awards from formal competitions. What I do possess, however, is an unwavering passion for the piano and a determination to constantly improve. I have chosen a path of musical learning that is deeply personal, striving for progress in every practice session and seeking resonance with the audience in every performance. I believe that music is a long journey without a final destination, and every experience and emotion I gather along the way serves as nourishment for my continued growth. Participating in this competition represents both a challenge and a rare learning opportunity for me. I look forward to conveying my understanding of and passion for music to every listener and judge present through my playing. Regardless of the outcome, I will carry this passion with me as I continue to move steadily forward on my musical journey.
Watch Yi-Fang Shao perform Nocturne in E-flat major, Op. 9, No. 2 by Frédéric Chopin on the piano for the 2026 Instrumental Music Competition as part of the Charleston International Music Competition.