Cincinnati to Beijing: CCM alumni shine bright in the world of music

CCM Associate Professor of Music Aik Khai Pung traveled to Beijing this summer and reconnected with a variety of alumni making names for themselves in the global music scene. Learn more about them in the round up below!

Pung, a graduate of Beijing's Central Conservatory of Music, visited his alma mater to discuss future collaborations. "During my visit, I had the pleasure of meeting several CCM graduates who have carved out remarkable careers in the world of music, each contributing their unique talents to the rich tapestry of the global music scene," he said.

Di Zhu (DMA Piano, '06), who studied with Elisabeth and Eugene Pridonoff at CCM, now holds the position of professor of piano at the China Conservatory of Music. Zhu's academic achievements and dedication to teaching reflect the high standards and deep musical insight gained from CCM.

Can Gao (Visiting Scholar Violin ,'08), who worked with Kurt Sassmannshaus at CCM, now holds the position of associate professor of violin at the Central Conservatory of Music. In addition to his academic role, Can Gao is the founder and artistic director of the We Do Music Center for Arts Education, demonstrating his dedication to both performing and shaping the future of music education.

Huan Jing (MM Orchestral Conducting, '09), who studied with Mark Gibson at CCM, has risen to prominence as the principal conductor of the China National Symphony Orchestra and music director of the Guangzhou Symphony Youth Orchestra. Her work exemplifies the excellence CCM strives for in its graduates, blending rigorous training with an inspiring career trajectory.

Ying Jiang (Visiting Scholar Piano, '13), who studied with Eugene Pridonoff at CCM, serves as a piano faculty member at the Music College of Capital Normal University. Jiang’s transition from CCM to her current role exemplifies the profound influence of CCM's pedagogical approach, enriching students' lives through exceptional teaching.

Yi Li (AD Opera Vocal Performance, '13), mentored by David Adams at CCM, serves as a faculty member of voice at the Sichuan Conservatory of Music. Li’s successful career in voice education is a direct extension of the vocal training and artistic development received at CCM.

Bingjie Liu (MM Piano, '14), who studied with Eugene Pridonoff at CCM, shares her expertise at the Poly WeDo Music Center for Arts Education. Her work in arts education underscores the broad impact CCM alumni have, extending their influence beyond performance to nurture future generations of musicians.

Le Gao (MM Cello, '15; DMA Cello, '18), who studied with Ilya Finkelshteyn at CCM, has achieved the notable position of principal cellist at the Central Conservatory of Music Symphony Orchestra. Gao’s success is a testament to CCM’s comprehensive training programs and the strong mentorship provided by our distinguished faculty.

Bing Chen (AD Opera Coaching, '17), who studied under the mentorship of Marie-France Lefebvre at CCM, contributes her skills as a faculty member in conducting at the Central Conservatory of Music. Chen's journey from CCM to this prestigious role reflects her commitment to fostering musical excellence and advancing the art of opera coaching in China.

Jaijing Lai (MM Orchestral Conducting, '18), who studied with Mark Gibson at CCM, has secured the role of assistant conductor of the China National Center for the Performing Arts Orchestra. Lai’s career is a testament to the rigorous and supportive training CCM provides, preparing graduates for significant positions in the performing arts world.

Julan Wang (DMA Piano, '18) is a lecturer at the Central Conservatory of Music. Wang has embraced his role as an educator with the same dedication and passion he demonstrated during his studies at CCM. His position at one of China’s leading music institutions highlights his exceptional ability to pass on his expertise to the next generation of musicians.

Ya Shu (MM Orchestral Conducting '19), who studied with Mark Gibson at CCM, has ascended to the role of principal conductor of the Minzu University of China Symphony Orchestra and Wind Orchestra. Shu’s achievements highlight CCM’s commitment to developing conductors who lead and inspire with distinction.

"The successes of these alumni underscore the global impact of CCM's programs and the caliber of its graduates," Pung said. "Their achievements are a source of immense pride for CCM, reflecting the institution’s dedication to fostering exceptional musical talent and leadership. As CCM continues to inspire and educate, it is evident that our alumni are making significant contributions to the world of music, both in China and beyond."

Featured image at the top: Julan Wang, Binjie Liu, Gao Le, Rui Ji, Ying Jiang, Di Zhu, Yi Li, Aik Khai Pung, Huan Jing, Bing Chen, Tong Cheng. Photo/Provided by Pung.