Jaylen is a rising senior at Marriotts Ridge High School in Howard County, Maryland. He began studying piano at the age of five under the guidance of Mr. David Kuperstein.
Over the years, Jaylen has demonstrated steady growth and commitment in piano performance, earning recognition in a range of competitions. He was awarded the Grand Prize at the BMTG International Piano Competition and has also been recognized at the Carmel Klavier International Piano competition, where he was selected to perform at the Winner’s Concert during the awards ceremony. In addition, he received awards at the Charleston International Music Competitions. He has also received numerous awards from Maryland state and local Solo and Ensemble competitions.
Beyond piano, Jaylen also plays the violin and was a long-time member of the Howard County Youth Orchestra from 2016 to 2023. He has been selected for the Maryland All-State Orchestra for three consecutive years from 2023 to 2025, reflecting his development as a well-rounded musician.
Outside of competitions, Jaylen actively organizes music performances in the community. He has led programs at local nursing homes, selecting nostalgic songs from past decades- familiar melodies that resonate with the elderly and help bring back cherished memories. He also participates in music outreach events for families with children who have developmental disabilities, using music as a way to bring comfort and joy. In addition, he frequently serves as an accompanist, supporting school choirs, senior singing groups, and classmates in various music activities.
You can find Jaylen’s 19th Century Music Competition 2024 piano performance here.
Watch Jaylen Hu perform Rondo Op. 9 by D. Kabalevsky on the piano for the 2025 Summer Music Competition as part of the Charleston International Music Competition.
Watch Jaylen Hu perform Variations Seriesuses, Op. 54 by F. Mendelssohn on the piano for the 19th Century Music Competition 2025 as part of the Charleston International Music Competition.