Appearances
Paducah Symphony Orchestra, KY, substitute; Queen City Opera, guest principal, Cincinnati; Seven Hills Symphony, principal, Cincinnati; Chautauqua Music School Festival, 2023
What is your earliest memory of classical music?
My earliest memory of classical music was actually through cartoons, especially Tom and Jerry. I remember hearing pieces like Liszt’s Hungarian Rhapsody and Strauss’s Blue Danube there, even before I knew their names.
Was there a teacher who was particularly impactful/helpful? What made this instructor stand out?
I would like to mention two teachers who have been crucial to my musical journey. One is my teacher at CCM, Dr. Gillian Benet Sella. Not only is she an outstanding harpist and educator, but she is also a warm and kind person. She encouraged and supported me in pursuing my goals, and at important crossroads, she guided and accompanied me in making choices. From her, I learned that as a harpist, I could—and should—acknowledge and care for one’s own feelings, take time for others, practice self-reflection, and enjoy the pleasures of life beyond music. She shaped not just my musicianship, but also who I am as a person.
Another person is my harp teacher in China, Li Li, who introduced me to the world of harp. I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to become a harpist without her. In teaching, she always maintained patience and strictness in her teaching, helping me step onto larger stages and into the wider world. Her influence extended beyond music to my personality as well.
How did you hear about TŌN? What inspired you to apply?
From my Professor, Dr. Sella. She was told about this open position and thought I should apply, believing it could help me take the next step.
If you weren’t a musician, what would you be doing?
When I was a kid I wanted to be a doctor, but looking back, that was probably unrealistic—there’s just too much to study! More realistically, I think I could see myself in something creative, like floral design or fashion styling, because I’ve always been drawn to beauty.
What is a surprising part of playing your instrument that you think most people don’t know?
Besides their hands, harpists’ feet are also quite busy.
What advice would you give your younger self or anyone starting out?
Sometimes feeling lost is perfectly normal. Just focus on taking each step steadily in the present moment, enjoy the journey, and what’s meant to be will come.
What do you wish you knew starting out that you know now?
I wish I had known that being a musician isn’t just about discipline and long hours of practice. That it’s equally important to care for my own feelings, to take time for others/family, and to enjoy life beyond music. That balance would make me a better harpist and person.