Chen Xue-Hong, born in the Gansu province of China, began learning piano by watching the internet with his parents' help, before being accepted into the Beijing Conservatory.
Cultural Impact
China currently has approximately sixty million pianists, indicating a massive scale of engagement with the instrument.
Performer Biography
Chen Xue-Hong's favorite composer is Chopin, and he can play Chopin's music continuously day and night, indifferent to his surroundings while working.
Historical Context
The first music conservatory in China was established in Shanghai in 1927, supported by Chinese personalities who had studied in Germany and France, acting as intermediaries between Chinese and European cultures.
Recording & Production
This album is a live recording from the Festival de la Haute-Clarée in the Hautes-Alpes, France, captured in August 2018.
Performer Biography
When asked what he would do with his prize money after winning a piano competition, Chen Xue-Hong said he would give it to his parents to thank them, and only requested a hamburger for himself.
Historical Context
The first Steinway piano arrived in China a century ago with Italian pianist and conductor Mario Paci, who then stayed to train Chinese pianists and founded the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra, the first of its kind in Asia.
