With graduation fast approaching, we asked Xingzhi Yang (MM ‘25, Instrumental and Orchestral Studies) to reflect on his time at Tianjin Juilliard and share advice for incoming students. Yang, who studies with Akio Koyama, recounts his transformative journey as a musician and emphasizes the importance of staying curious and open-minded as an artist.
Looking back at your time at Tianjin Juilliard, what has been a defining moment in your musical journey here?
A defining moment for me was participating in the concerto competition. In that experience, I poured everything I had into my preparation, making the competition piece the focal point of my work. It wasn’t just about winning, but about learning how to become a true artist. Reflecting on these past two years, I believe I’ve achieved that goal, especially under the guidance of my teacher, Akio Koyama. His influence has transformed me—not just in terms of musical performance, but also in my spirit and belief in music. His teachings have shaped not only my playing but my entire approach to art.
Can you share a particular challenge you faced during your studies, and how you overcame it? What did you learn from that experience?
Changing my ingrained playing habits, which had been formed over many years, was one of the greatest challenges I faced as a student. An old Chinese proverb claims it is easier to change the landscape than to change one's nature. Breaking free from these old habits was incredibly difficult. Under the guidance of my teacher, Akio Koyama, my playing underwent a transformation. The process was not just about refining technical skills; it was about reshaping my entire approach to music.
What I learned from this experience is that musical and personal growth often requires confronting the most fundamental aspects of oneself. It’s uncomfortable at first, but the journey of overcoming old habits is where true progress lies. This experience taught me that change isn’t just about mastering new techniques—it’s about being willing to challenge one’s limits and grow from within.
As you prepare to graduate, what advice would you give to incoming students?
The path ahead won’t always be easy, and there will be times when you face doubt or difficulty, but remember that every challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow. Take time to deeply engage with both the music and the people around you. Don’t just focus on perfecting your technique, listen, feel, and experience music on a deeper level.
Additionally, trust your teachers, and trust yourself. The guidance you receive is invaluable, but ultimately, it’s your unique voice and perspective that will shape your artistry. Be patient with yourself as you work through difficult moments, and embrace the process of becoming who you are as an artist. Lastly, remember to enjoy the journey, because the love for music should always be the driving force behind everything you do.
