NJYAPC

I recently participated in the New Jersey Young Artist Piano Competition hosted by the New Jersey City University, and conducted by Miles Fellenberg, Joseph Yungen, Christine Kim, and Sora Oh.  The program lasted only two days, but offered so many opportunities to excel.

The NJYAPC’s exceptional quality was a product of great organization, planning, and professionalism.  The actual competition was the first day, and a beautiful nine-foot Steinway met each performer on the stage.  The faculty actually hand picked the instrument from a local Steinway store!  Afterwards, each performer met with the competition jury to receive specific feedback about the repertoire and to discuss music in general!  This was a true highlight of my experience.  I feel it is always invaluable to receive any feedback and suggestions, so I was very appreciative that the NJYAPC incorporated this valuable element into the program.

The participants and family then met with the program’s administration for a question and answer session.  The faculty consisted of young professional pianists who have all recently earned advanced degrees from many of the top music conservatories in the nation.  These individuals emphasized that competitions are a chance to set repertoire and personal goals and should ultimately reinforce one’s passion for music.

The faculty members conducted master classes the next day, and I had the privilege of working with Joseph Yungen.  I was so inspired by each mentor’s depth of musical knowledge, ranging from genres, to composers, to the scores themselves.  These mentors brought out the best of each student through excellent and well-rounded advice.  Perhaps the most inspiring aspect of these bright professionals was their uncompromised attitude.  They continuously strive to support and guide aspiring musicians in any way possible, inside and outside of the NJYAPC.

I must commend the faculty and administration for taking the initiative to plan and organize this wonderful program.  The NJYAPC was such an enriching and well-rounded experience as a direct result of the selfless and professional nature of those involved in its foundation and perseverance.  I aspire to become the kind of quality musician and person as these instructors, who are undoubtedly some of the brightest of the industry.  I would strongly recommend this program to any aspiring pianist approaching undergraduate studies.