Explore the piano works of Asian composers through a historical and cultural lens in this thought-provoking masterclass led by distinguished music historian and pianist Dr. Lisa Yui. This session uncovers how composers from Asia and its diaspora redefined the piano’s sonic possibilities while navigating the legacies of Western musical imperialism. Through a rich array of musical examples and contextual insights, participants will gain a deeper appreciation for the piano as a tool of both artistic resistance and self-expression across continents.

Key Features

• Cultural and Historical Context: Examine the impact of colonialism, nationalism, and identity on the development of piano music across Asia and its expatriate communities.

  Pan-Asian Repertoire: Discover piano works from diverse Asian regions—both iconic and underrepresented—that reflect the evolution of a uniquely Asian musical voice.

  Legacy and Innovation: Understand how early emulations of European styles gave way to bold, culturally-rooted experimentation in piano composition.

  Musical Storytelling: Engage with repertoire that reflects the intersection of personal, political, and cultural narratives through the piano.

Course Objectives and Takeaways
 

By the end of this masterclass, you will:

• Develop an understanding of how Asian composers used the piano to express identity, challenge norms, and engage in cultural dialogue.

• Gain exposure to an expansive body of piano repertoire beyond the Western canon.

• Learn to interpret and appreciate works that integrate Eastern and Western musical influences.

• Recognize the piano as a medium of self-discovery, transformation, and artistic defiance across Asian cultures and diasporas.

This masterclass offers more than a survey of repertoire—it’s an invitation to rethink the piano’s role in global music history. By illuminating the journeys of Asian composers and their navigation of cultural identity, political influence, and musical heritage, this session encourages participants to engage more critically and creatively with repertoire selection, performance interpretation, and pedagogical approaches.

Whether you’re a pianist, teacher, or historian, you’ll come away with a broadened perspective and valuable insights into how the piano has served as a vehicle of self-discovery, resilience, and innovation across Asian musical landscapes.