December 22, 2024
Carnegie Hall: The American Protégé Winners Recital Program
The American Protégé International Piano and Strings Competition provides a platform for talented young musicians from all around the world. Through online video submissions, aspiring artists compete for the opportunity to perform at prestigious venues like Carnegie Hall. For my performance, I chose Chopin's Étude Op. 25 No. 2, a piece that transcends its technical origins as a practice piece. My teacher describes it as so compelling that Chopin simply couldn't find a title for it, making it the "most un-practice-like practice piece."
In my interpretation, the right hand evokes the image of a howling wind, a sound I've often experienced in my neighborhood. The swirling, powerful notes mirror the changing wind patterns and their resounding force. In contrast, the left hand provides a waltz-like rhythm (one-two-three, one-two-three), creating a sense of movement and dance. The middle section features a dialogue between the hands, a call and response that adds depth and complexity. The ending cascades like a waterfall, bringing the piece to a dramatic close. The recurring motifs throughout the piece remind me of dance movements, a constant contracting and expanding, reminiscent of modern, contemporary, and ballet dance styles.
The Switch to Chopin
My journey to Carnegie Hall took an unexpected turn. While initially focused on a Beethoven work, I decided to take on the challenge of Chopin's Étude Op. 25 No. 2 just a month before the performance. It was a demanding undertaking, but I embraced it fully.
The Journey To Carnegie Hall
Travelling from Houston, Texas, to New York City with my parents during the holiday season added another layer of complexity (and expense!) to this incredible experience. This trip also marked my first time visiting New York in the winter, and we arrived just as the city experienced its first snowfall of the year! The stark contrast in temperature between Houston and New York made the experience even more memorable, adding a touch of winter magic to the anticipation of performing at Carnegie Hall. But the anticipation of performing at Carnegie Hall made it all worthwhile.
The Recital Program
The anticipation of performing on the grand stage of Carnegie Hall was exhilarating! I was filled with excitement and a desire to give my best performance. I chose a burgundy A-line prom dress and styled my hair in a high ponytail, completing the look with makeup. I wanted to present myself in the best possible light for this momentous occasion.
After a slight stumble on the backstage stairs (a moment of pre-performance jitters!), I left the chilly backstage area and walked onto the grand stage of Carnegie Hall. I took a deep breath, gracefully bowed to the audience, and approached the piano. As I settled at the piano, my heart counted 'one, two, and three,' and the first note flowed out smoothly. From that moment on, I was immersed in the music, focused on bringing my interpretation of Chopin's Étude to life.
The Final Bow
Fa-la-dao, dao-dao-dao. When the final notes faded, I slowly placed my hands back in my lap, rose from the piano, and offered a final bow to the appreciative audience. As I walked back backstage, a wave of relief and accomplishment washed over me. My immediate thought was, 'If God allows, I would love to return to this very stage and perform again!' It was a truly unforgettable experience.
After the performance, I was honored to receive the award from the American Protégé Program, a testament to the hard work and dedication that led me to this incredible moment.
