Celebrated as "captivating" (Stroll Magazine) and “an extremely gifted and promising young artist” (Rorianne Schrade, New York Concert Review), Chinese pianist Junwen Liang began his piano journey at nine, making his solo debut at thirteen. He has performed as a soloist with the Central Texas Philharmonic, Penn State Philharmonic Orchestra, and Ithaca College Symphonic Orchestra. His accomplishments include appearances at Carnegie Hall, the Kimmel Center, and broadcasts on WSKG and Philadelphia's WRTI Classical Radio. During the 2024-2025 season, Junwen will perform across the United States, Canada, and China.
Junwen has been invited to major festivals such as the Texas State International Piano Festival, Lunigiana International Music Festival, Philadelphia Young Pianists’ Academy, Orford Musique, Art of the Piano, and Aspen Music Festival. He has also secured major prizes in competitions including WPTA Spain, The American Prize, Juliusz Zarębski International Piano Competition, New York International Piano Competition, and Philadelphia International Piano Competition. Beyond solo performances, Junwen actively collaborates in professional duo and chamber projects on the East Coast and adjudicates state-level competitions in the D.C. area.
Praised for his “engaging stage presence, helpful spoken introductions to the music, and confident programming skills,” Junwen is “ready for a major career” (Michael J. Moran, In the Spotlight Inc). Currently based in Philadelphia, Junwen recently graduated from the Peabody Institute, studying under Richard Goode. His past mentors include Christopher Guzman, Roberto Plano, Edward Auer, and Charis Dimaras, with additional studies under Gary Graffman and Oxana Yablonskaya. Junwen is represented worldwide by Price Attractions.
A Series-commissioned work will be premiered during this concert.
A Series-commissioned work will be premiered during this concert. A Series-commissioned work will be premiered during this concert. PROGRAM
Sonatine - Ravel
I. Modéré
I. Modéré I. Modéré II. Mouvement de menuet
II. Mouvement de menuet II. Mouvement de menuet III. Animé
III. Animé III. Animé Rondo for Piano - Catherine Likhuta
Images, Book 2 - Debussy
Jasmine Flowers - Wanghua Chu
Sonata No. 3 in B minor, Op. 58 - Chopin
EVENT TIMELINE
3:30 - 3:55 - Arrive and mingle
4:00 - Concert
5:00 - 6:00 - Performer meet & greet
A wine reception with light hors d'oeuvres will be provided during the performer meet & greet
A wine reception with light hors d'oeuvres will be provided during the performer meet & greet A wine reception with light hors d'oeuvres will be provided during the performer meet & greet ADDITIONAL EVENT DETAILS
Location: The Steinway Piano Gallery of Kansas City
Attire: Cocktail chic
Parking: Within the Gallery's parking lot