CSMA welcomes accordionist Hanzhi Wang, a Stanford Live Artist Spotlight performer, to Tateuchi Hall on Sunday, February 16 at 2:00pm. Praised for her captivating stage presence and performances that are both technically and musically masterful, this groundbreaking young musician was recently named “New Artist of the Month” by Musical America.
We spoke to Hanzhi to learn more about her and what the audience can expect from her performance in Tateuchi Hall.
Hanzhi Wang, accordionist
Tell us a little about yourself. How did you begin playing and performing music?
I started my musical journey when I was six years old. One day my father was watching an Italian movie and I heard the most beautiful sound I’ve ever heard. I didn’t know it was an accordion back then, I just knew it wasn’t any kind of instrument I’ve heard before. After a couple of weeks, I got a gift—it was a little red and shining squeeze-box with a few keys and buttons. I immediately fell in love with my new toy.
Did you have access to music education in school?
Yes, I received my first formal music education in middle school. I earned my bachelor’s degree from the Central Conservatory of Music in China. I earned my master’s degree and soloist diploma from the Royal Danish Academy of Music.
Tell us about a great music teacher you had.
Geir Draugsvoll (above) was the professor who guided me through my education in Copenhagen. He heard my performance at one of the biggest international accordion competitions in Spain, where he saw my talent and my passion and told me, “the accordion needs you.”
How often do you practice and/or rehearse?
It’s a part of my daily life.
What advice do you have for aspiring musicians?
You should enjoy the music and find inspiration in your life.
What can the audience expect during the performance in Tateuchi Hall?
I hope it will leave the audience with a new, valuable and eye-opening experience. I know that classical accordion may not be well known in the United States, but it’s growing rapidly in the rest of the world. As an ambassador of the classical accordion, I wish to see this instrument become more popular on the American classical music stage in the nearest future.
