Yuqian Zhang

Profile

Appearances: Zephyr International Chamber Music Festival, assistant, 2014, 2017; The Second U.S. Music School Piano and Violin Music Festival, 2012

What is your earliest memory of classical music? Around 10 years old, my dad gave me a CD as a gift.

When did you realize you wanted to pursue music as a career? When I was in high school there was a chance that I could do another thing, but I would have to stop playing the violin. A few weeks later, I decided to continue to play the violin as my career.

Who is your biggest inspiration? My father

Which composer do you feel you connect with the most? Brahms

What is your favorite piece of music, and why do you love it? Brahms Piano Trio No.1 in B major, Op. 8. The music is so moving, especially the slow movement. In spite of its overall darkness, the movement is serene, almost meditative.

What has been your favorite experience as a musician? Each time when we finish a concert and the audience is so enthusiastic and welcoming to us.

What is some advice you would give to your younger self? Practice more! And go to concerts more!

Favorite non-classical musician or band: Jay Chou and K-pop

If you weren’t a musician, what would you be doing? I would be a lawyer.

What is your favorite place you’ve traveled to and why? San Francisco. I love the weather.

Which three people, dead or alive, would you like to have dinner with and why? Actually I only have two people I really would like to have dinner with: The first is my grandfather. He was a soldier, and I really respect him. But he died when I was two years old, and so I don’t have any memories with him. I would like to talk with him and learn more about him. The second is Anne-Sophie Mutter. She has been my idol since I was 11 years old and I would like to discuss music with her.

Piece of advice for a young classical musician: Enjoy your music career and appreciate that you are a musician because it is a gift for your life.