On the evening of December 1st, 2024, the Arcadia Community Church hosted a magical event that beautifully intertwined the joy of music with the spirit of giving. The Christmas Charity Student Recital, organized by Dr. Yaqi Wang and Mi Zhou, brought together a talented group of young musicians to celebrate the holiday season through both classical and contemporary pieces. But this event was about more than just music—it was also a charity fundraiser, with all proceeds benefiting local causes during the holiday season.
An Evening of Purpose
Dr. Yaqi Wang, a respected educator and performer, is the founder of the Concert Star organization and Vice President of the International Classical Music Alliance (ICMA). With a doctoral degree in piano performance and pedagogy from the University of Kansas, Dr. Wang is dedicated to inspiring young talent and fostering a love of music. Her passion for both education and community was evident throughout the recital.
Mi Zhou, a celebrated pianist and educator with a master’s degree from the Manhattan School of Music, also brought his expertise to the event. Known for his engaging teaching style and technical mastery, Mi’s influence on his students was on full display throughout the evening.
The church was beautifully decorated with festive Christmas lights and ornaments, creating the perfect atmosphere for this celebration of music and charity.
A Showcase of Talent
The evening began with a diverse selection of pieces by Dr. Wang’s students. From Bella He’s lively “Whirling Leaves” to the dramatic “Dance of the Irish,” the program demonstrated various musical styles. Another standout performance was “Lunar Eclipse,” performed by Olivia He, which transported the audience into a mystical, otherworldly atmosphere. The piece was eerie and hypnotic, with its dissonant harmonies and shifting tonal colors. The delicate phrasing and expressiveness of Olivia’s playing made this piece particularly moving.
A particularly heartwarming moment came when Olivia and her sister, Bella He, performed “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star” for four hands. Their synchronized playing was a joy to watch, and their chemistry on stage delighted the audience.
The evening continued with Grace Hao jazz-infused numbers like “I’ve Got Rhythm,” which had the audience tapping their feet to the syncopated rhythms and lively melody. Following this was “Our Detective Agency,” a playful, whimsical piece filled with mystery and intrigue. It was a delightful contrast to the other works in the program, showcasing the students’ ability to play in diverse styles. The “Home on the Range” brought a serene, American Western feel to the stage with its soothing melodies and expansive harmonies.
Mi Zhou’s Students
Mi Zhou’s students also contributed beautifully to the recital. Xinling Song performed “Sonata Op. 36 No. 1, 1st Movement” by M. Clementi with finesse, while Sunny Xie’s rendition of the third movement of “Sonata Op. 36 No. 1” was an emotional and technically impressive performance. Tasha Yang’s “Melancholy Reflections” performance conveyed deep emotion, while another student’s performance of Clementi’s “Sonata Op. 36 No. 6, 1st Movement” showcased precision and musical maturity.
A Magical Duet Finale
The evening’s grand finale featured an extraordinary duet performance by Dr. Wang and Mi Zhou. Together, they performed several beloved Christmas carols, filling the church with the warm sounds of the season. Their seamless collaboration added a touch of magic, bringing the event to a heartwarming conclusion.
Honoring the Performers
Each student was recognized for their hard work with a certificate of achievement and a special Christmas gift—a thoughtful gesture that reflected the nurturing and supportive environment cultivated by Dr. Wang and Mi Zhou.
A Community United Through Music
The Christmas Charity Student Recital was more than just a concert—it was a celebration of community, charity, and the unifying power of music. It was a night when young musicians shared their passion with the audience, and the community came together to support a good cause. The event perfectly captured the holiday spirit, leaving everyone involved with a sense of joy, warmth, and connection.
Published by Stephanie M.
