This week, New York Art Life Magazine has the privilege of featuring the illustrious Alex Jiheng Bi, a composer, teacher, and pianist whose contributions to the world of contemporary classical music have been nothing short of extraordinary. Alex Jiheng Bi’s unique compositions have garnered acclaim and have been performed by some of the most distinguished artists on the global stage, including the Spektral Quartet, Nathalie Joachim, Xiang Gao, 6-wire, and Steve Lippia. These collaborations underscore his versatility and his musical creations’ broad appeal. His ability to weave complex, emotive narratives through music has earned him a distinguished place among modern composers.
One of Bi’s significant accomplishments was his role in the collaborative opera “Waulking in the Glen.” This piece showcased his skill in blending traditional and contemporary elements and highlighted his talent for rich storytelling through music. The opera was recognized as a semi-finalist in the 2018-19 Opera/theater/film/dance of the American Prize in Composition, a testament to its artistic merit and innovative approach. This recognition from such a prestigious competition underscores Alex Jiheng Bi’s ability to resonate with audiences and critics, further establishing his reputation as a formidable force in modern composition.
Beyond his achievements as a composer, Alex Jiheng Bi is also an esteemed teacher and pianist. His dedication to education and nurturing the next generation of musicians is evident in his pedagogical approach, which emphasizes technical proficiency and creative expression. As a pianist, his performances are noted for their emotional depth and technical excellence, captivating audiences and enhancing his compositions’ impact. His dual role as an educator and performer allows him to influence the musical landscape profoundly, inspiring students and audiences with his passion and expertise.
New York Art Life Magazine: Your recent original composition, “Moonlight on the Pearl River,” showcases your talent for orchestral music. The composition follows a carefully crafted structure, with three main sections arranged in a slow-fast-faster order. The piece opens with a slow section, setting a serene and poetic tone.
Alex Jiheng Bi: With the change in pace, I created a sense of growing momentum and energy. I liked that the composition reached a joyous and even faster section, bringing the piece to a vibrant and uplifting conclusion. The title, “Moonlight,” sets the tone for the opening section of the composition. In this section, ranging from measures 1 to 65, I have painted a vivid musical picture of the full moon’s reflection in the Mid-Autumn Festival. The music evokes a sense of tranquility and beauty, capturing the essence of the ethereal glow of moonlight. The poetic nature of this opening section sets the stage for the dynamic changes and contrasts that follow in subsequent sections.
New York Art Life Magazine: One of your most significant works is Jingzhe, a composition for string quartet and flute. It premiered at the Gildenhorn Recital Hall at the University of Maryland College Park.
Alex Jiheng Bi: The performance featured the acclaimed Spektral Quartet and the talented flutist Nathalie Joachim. Jingzhe is a composition that explores the unique combination of string instruments and flute, creating a dynamic and compelling musical experience. The premiere of this piece at such a prestigious venue showcased the skill and artistry of the performers. It allowed the audience to immerse themselves in Jingzhe‘s intricate textures and expressive melodies.
New York Art Life Magazine: Your works have truly evolved into something extraordinary since 2017. The mature sound and deep emotionality that you bring to your compositions are simply breathtaking. This is evident in your piece, “Clown in the Moon,” which premiered at the prestigious Gore Recital Hall at the University of Delaware. The combination of alto, oboe, cello, harp, and marimba creates a unique and captivating sound that resonates with the audience’s soul.
The premiere of “Clown in the Moon” was a resounding success, leaving the audience in awe of your talent and creativity. The combination of instruments, the maturity of the composition, and the extraordinary emotionality you infuse into your work make this piece a true masterpiece. Your ability to evoke such deep emotions through music is a gift that should be cherished and celebrated. I can’t wait to see what other notable works you will create.
Alex Jiheng Bi: The haunting melodies performed by contralto Kaitlyn Tierney tug at the heartstrings, while Kirsten Haden’s oboe adds a touch of melancholy to the overall atmosphere. Kimia Jamshid-Arsani’s soulful cello playing adds depth and richness, perfectly complemented by Harmony Mooney’s harp’s delicate and ethereal sounds. This is one of the first compositions created in the US, but one of the most engaging.
New York Art Life Magazine: One of the works you are particularly proud of is “Prayer” (Organ Solo), which premiered at Bayard Sharp Hall, University of Delaware, in 2017. You performed this piece with the organ. The composition explores themes of spirituality and reflection through the expressive capabilities of the organ. The premiere was well-received, and it was a great honor to have your work performed by such a skilled musician in a prestigious venue. Another notable work of yours is “Address to the Toothache,” which was presented as part of the 2018 University of Delaware Opera Theater (UDOT) Opera Workshop/Composition Studio Collaborative Project titled “Waulking in the Glen.”
Alex Jiheng Bi: This project allowed me to collaborate with other talented individuals in opera. “Address to the Toothache” explores the emotional and physical pain associated with dental issues and presents it in a comedic yet relatable way. The performance took place at Bayard Sharp Hall, again showcasing the University of Delaware’s commitment to supporting and promoting new works in the arts. I was excited to compose one of my masterpieces, “A Dream” (SATB Choir). The premiere of this piece took place at the New Music at Maryland Concert, held at the Gildenhorn Recital Hall, University of Maryland College Park, MD. The performance was recorded at Gore Recital Hall, University of Delaware, DE. I was fortunate to have Hunter Torggler as the conductor for this piece. This composition explores dreams, aspirations, and the power of imagination. I was genuinely honored to have the opportunity to share this work with a broader audience and collaborate with talented musicians.
New York Art Life Magazine: Throughout your extraordinary career as a composer and pianist, you have been fortunate enough to receive several important and prestigious awards. One of these notable achievements was being named the Award recipient of the Maryland Composers Project in 2022. This recognition highlights your talent and skill as a composer and acknowledges your music’s impact within the Maryland music community.
Alex Jiheng Bi: I was also honored to be the 2nd Place Winner for Opera/Theatre/Film/Dance at the 2018-19 American Composition Award. With collaborative opera project “Waulking in the Glen.” Another significant achievement in my career was being selected as a composer for the Network for New Music Solo Piano Competition in 2018, held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This competition is highly regarded within the music community, and being chosen as a selected composer demonstrates my expertise in composing pieces specifically for solo piano performances. It was an incredible opportunity to have my work recognized by esteemed judges and fellow musicians.
Furthermore, I was honored to be chosen as a pianist for the Trustee’s annual retreat at the University of Delaware, DE.
New York Art Life Magazine: These crucial awards and recognitions throughout your career have solidified your position as a respected composer and pianist. They have helped you gain visibility within the industry and motivated you to continue pushing boundaries and creating innovative and impactful music. With your exceptional talent and extensive experience, you have established yourself as an outstanding pianist. You possess a remarkable skill set in solo and collaborative piano performances, having worked with various soloists, chamber ensembles, choirs, symphony orchestras, and opera houses. Your versatility and adaptability have allowed you to excel in diverse musical settings, showcasing your instrument mastery. Your participation in the prestigious Master Players Festival in 2016 and 2017 further solidified your reputation as a remarkable pianist. As a solo pianist, you captivated audiences with your virtuosity and expressive interpretations. Your performances were highly praised for their technical precision and emotional depth. Your collaborative work during the festival also demonstrated your ability to seamlessly blend with other musicians, creating harmonious and captivating musical experiences.
Alex Jiheng Bi: One notable achievement in my career is my involvement in the recording session for “Dandelion Wine,” composed by J. Andrew Dickenson. As a pianist, I was crucial in bringing this composition to life. In 2019, I had the privilege of being a pianist in the Tempo New Music Ensemble. This experience allowed me to explore contemporary music and showcase my versatility in interpreting modern compositions. My contribution to the ensemble was highly valued, as I brought my unique artistic perspective and technical prowess to every performance.
New York Art Life Magazine: On January 21, 2024, you served on the World Piano Teacher Association’s Piano Performance and Pedagogy Committee jury. You had the honor of judging The 1st WPTA International Youth Piano Competition.
Alex Jiheng Bi: Jurying at the 1st WPTA International Youth Piano Competition is an experience that holds a special place in my heart. This prestigious event, organized by the World Piano Teacher Association (WPTA), serves as a beacon of recognition for my musical abilities and unwavering passion and dedication to music. Being chosen as a jury member by such a renowned organization is truly an honor and a testament to the countless hours of practice and hard work I have invested in music, particularly the piano. The opportunity to evaluate and inspire young pianists is exhilarating. It underscores the value of perseverance and excellence in classical music. The WPTA’s recognition validates my efforts and fuels my commitment to fostering musical talent in the next generation. I am profoundly grateful for this recognition and the chance to contribute to the growth of young musicians through this esteemed platform.
New York Art Life Magazine: Why, in addition to composing and being a virtuoso and talented pianist, did you also decide to teach with the same passion you put into music?
Alex Jiheng Bi: I decided to teach with the same passion I put into music because I believe in the transformative power of education. While performing allows me to express my artistry, teaching enables me to share my knowledge and inspire the next generation of musicians. By imparting the technical skills and emotional depth required to master the piano, I aim to cultivate a profound appreciation for music in my students. Teaching also provides a unique opportunity to continue learning and growing as an artist, as it constantly challenges me to refine my understanding and approach to music. Through teaching, I can leave a lasting legacy beyond my performances, nurturing new talent and fostering a vibrant musical community.
New York Art Life Magazine: Would you give three pieces of advice to young pianists?
Alex Jiheng Bi: For young pianists aspiring to master their craft, three tips can significantly enhance their musical journey. First, cultivating a disciplined practice routine is paramount. Consistency and deliberate practice are crucial in building muscle memory and technical proficiency. Allocate specific daily times for focused practice sessions, ensuring a balanced mix of scales, arpeggios, and repertoire. Second, develop a keen ear for listening. This involves listening to your playing and immersing yourself in recordings of renowned pianists. Analyzing their interpretations and nuances can provide invaluable insights and inspire creative expression in your performances. Lastly, I always appreciate the power of musical theory. A solid understanding of harmony, rhythm, and composition will allow you to read and interpret music more effectively, enhancing your overall musicianship. Young pianists can unlock their full potential and achieve higher artistry by integrating these three secret tips—disciplined practice, keen listening, and a firm grasp of theory.
New York Art Life Magazine: Your most excellent professional satisfaction?
Alex Jiheng Bi: Teaching music and sharing my passion for it has been my most excellent satisfaction in the infinite world of music. Watching my students grow and develop their skills brings me immense joy and fulfillment. It is truly gratifying to witness their commitment and determination being recognized and rewarded. Seeing their hard work pay off, such as Christina Hu being awarded at the Pacific Stars International Piano Competition and Charles Federick Li winning first prize in the Prodigy I Category at the Global Philharmonic 2024 Music Competition, is a testament to their talent and dedication.
For those who have a deep love for music, these moments of success are gratifying. It is a privilege to guide and inspire young musicians on their journey, helping them discover their talents and reach their full potential. Witnessing the passion that children have for music is truly inspiring, and nurturing that love and watching it flourish is a beautiful experience.
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