![]() ![]() Although knowledge, and the historical aspects of the music, can be imparted, personality, authenticity, and the depth of musicianship cannot be taught. ![]() ![]() “Conducting is about mental projection.” After intense study and preparation of the music, the right sound and interpretation must be first present in the conductor’s mind in order to covey it to the musicians. The vast array of concerts that the New York Philharmonic presented had opened Zhang’s ears to the infinite possibilities of music-making. A natural authority.” After winning the competition she was appointed the New York Philharmonic’s assistant conductor and subsequently was promoted to the position of associate conductor. Of Zhang, Maazel remarked, “she has a commanding presence on the podium. Bundit Ungrangsee from Thailand were each awarded $45,000 along with conducting fellowships, engagements, and mentorship from Maazel. The jurors read like a who’s-who of illustrious musicians- Lorin Maazel, violinist Kyung-Wha Chung cellist Janos Starker composer Krzystof Penderecki the New York Philharmonic’s concertmaster Glenn Dicterow Yoichiro Omachi, conductor of the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra Ian Stoutzker, founder of Live Music Now Étienne Vatelot, the esteemed French violin maker and Marcello Viotti, music director of La Fenice Opera in Venice. The eight finalists chosen appeared on the stage of Carnegie Hall, Zhang among them. Of 362 contenders from 43 countries competing at the first Maazel/Vilar Conductor’s Competition, fifty-six contestants were chosen for six in-person regional rounds. She was so very tiny and timid, insecure about speaking English but both the players and teachers were impressed when she conducted. Zhang then moved to Cincinnati, in 1998 to pursue her doctoral degree. WILLIAM ZHANG PIANO PRODIGY PROFESSIONALShe made her professional debut conducting The Marriage of Figaro at the Central Opera House in Beijing at the age of 20. Her studies continued with Wu Ling Fen, professor of the Conducting Department of China Conservatory of Music, where she earned both Bachelor and Master of Music degrees. Zhang claims to have looked all over the world unable to find a replica of this particular baton shape. The handle has an unusual shape, which fits into her palm comfortably, and the cut down length, and precise weight suits her perfectly. ![]() Her first foray with a stick was with a chopstick!Įver since, for 25 years, Zhang has used the same baton. Once the motions and body language were mastered then, and only then, was she allowed a baton. Pushed by China’s first female conductor Zheng Xiaoying, a strict disciplinarian, Zhang had to learn scores from memory, and for an entire year she conducted with only hand gestures. It became obvious this would be her path. Advancing on an instrument and building a reservoir of knowledge and understanding of music are the essential building blocks, before you can even begin to become a conductor. The excellent teaching she initially received nurtured her musical growth and understanding. Zhang began her studies in China majoring in piano. ![]()
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