Malaysian Student Wong Yi Xuen’s Piano Recital Concludes Successfully——Reflecting on Growth through Notes, Honoring Time on Stage.

Jointly hosted by the International Office and School of Music of Shanghai University, Wong Yi Xuen’s Piano Recital was successfully held at 7:00 PM on Friday, May 16, 2025, in the Concert Hall of the School of Music.

Jointly hosted by the International Office and School of Music of Shanghai University, Wong Yi Xuen’s Piano Recital was successfully held at 7:00 PM on Friday, May 16, 2025, in the Concert Hall of the School of Music.

About the Performer

Wong Yi Xuen, a Malaysian student, is a 2021 cohort undergraduate in Piano Performance at the School of Music, Shanghai University, studying under Dr. Xu Yan.

During her studies, she was awarded the Yangtze River Piano Music Scholarship in 2021 and 2023, as well as the Shanghai University International Student Academic Scholarship for two consecutive years.

Recital Repertoire Review

The recital was thoughtfully structured, with a balance of tension and release. The repertoire included Romanticism, Nationalism, and 20th-century modern music, showcasing the performer’s cross-cultural artistic expression and exploration.

The program featured iconic works by Western composers such as Chopin and Sibelius, as well as contemporary Chinese pieces like “Jasmine Fantasia” by Chu Wanghua, highlighting Wong’s deep understanding and integration of both Eastern and Western musical languages.

The program featured iconic works by Western composers such as Chopin and Sibelius, as well as contemporary Chinese pieces like “Jasmine Fantasia” by Chu Wanghua, highlighting Wong’s deep understanding and integration of both Eastern and Western musical languages.

Performer’s Words | “This Recital is Also a Letter to Myself”

Four years of university life brought me through so much, and made me truly understand the Chinese saying: “One minute on stage takes ten years of practice offstage.”

I still remember how I spent the first one and a half years studying online from my home in Malaysia due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. During that time, my teacher and I were like “online friends,” taking one-on-one classes across a screen.

Although we couldn’t communicate face-to-face, she patiently guided me, helping me build my piano foundation step by step.

When in-person teaching resumed, the higher standards and intense schedule were challenging.Outside of class, I spent nearly all my time in the practice room.Over time, both my body and mind were exhausted, and I even doubted my own ability.

But whenever I wanted to give up, I reminded myself to keep going.Gradually, I learned to adjust, adapt, and overcome the timid, hesitant version of myself.

Along the way, I am most grateful for Dr. Xu Yan’s meticulous guidance and selfless dedication.She not only set high standards in performance, but also taught me by example how to be a responsible and grounded person.She didn’t just teach me how to play — she taught me how to be serious, humble, and responsible for my art.

From learning to be a person to learning to be a pianist, I will carry her words with me for a lifetime.

From having a weak foundation and little stage experience when I first enrolled, to now being able to complete a full solo recital, the journey has been challenging, yet fulfilling. To me, this study-abroad experience in China is one of the most valuable treasures of my life. As I move forward, I will continue to work hard and strive to live up to this rare and meaningful journey.

Recital Highlights

This recital was not only a showcase of artistry, but also the closing chapter of a coming-of-age story. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all audience members, mentors, classmates, and friends who have supported her journey.Looking ahead, Wong Yi Xuen will carry her Shanghai experience with her as she strides onto even broader stages.

Source: International Students of Shanghai University