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"Ren Zhang" Pianist
Pianist Ren Zhang, dedicated to reviving and performing music in the grand romantic tradition, has burst upon the international concert scene as one of the unique pianistic characters of his generation.
A native of Shanghai, Ren Zhang began his piano studies at the age of four. At only twelve, he entered the Shanghai Conservatory of Music. In 1987, Ren debuted with the Shanghai Theatrical Orchestra at the Shanghai Concert Hall as the recipient of the Gold Medal of the National Young Pianist Competition.
Sponsored by a full scholarship, Ren entered the Manhattan School of Music, studying piano with Solomon Mikowsky. There he earned both his Bachelor and Master of Music degrees and received the Elva Van Gelder Memorial Award. Over the years, Ren's artistry and pianistic style have transformed and personalized, "Lifting it far above musty 'scholarship' into soaring realms of communicative vitality," as one critic commented.
Ren Zhang's artistry was further recognized after a highly successful New York recital debut at the Weill Recital Hall of Carnegie Hall, as a recipient of the Shura Cherkassky Award from Artist International, where reviewer Harris Goldsmith praised his performance saying, "This concert was a feast for those who rejoice in the piano as a vehicle for warm, songful expression, orchestral richness and... tonal adventures." (New York Concert Review)
Ren Zhang has released a number of live CD recordings, including works by Rachmaninoff, Chopin, Liszt and Godowsky. His live recordings have been broadcast by many classical radio stations around the country. Both the International Piano Magazine and the American Record Guide have published rave reviews on Ren's live recordings.
"Ren Zhang is a young pianist of enormous gifts - either playing the established repertoire, or like his hero, Shura Cherkasskey, relishing the delights of the grand transcription literature. Mr. Zhang's playing in both realms is refreshing, personal, and stylish...."
- David Dubal, Professor of Piano at the Juilliard School
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