Steinway Artist, Xiayin Wang performs at a Montessori School in Chicago
By Lila Jokanovic, Examiner.com (01/21/10)
On February 19th, 2010, Council Oak Montessori School's Great Hall buzzed with anticipation, as children ages 3 through 16, staff, and parents prepared for an afternoon of music.
Xiayin Wang, Steinway Artist and concert pianist, had scheduled an appearance at the school following her performance on Chicago's PianoForte Salon Series (WFMT radio). Ms. Wang is an advocate of arts education, and actively spreads awareness and appreciation for music to students whenever she has the opportunity.
She started with "Autumn Moon Over a Calm Lake", a classical Chinese piece and ended with the same at the request of the school's administrator. In between, Ms. Wang thrilled the audience with Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, which she played with a child from the upper elementary school, encouraging the children to sing along. She performed George Gershwin's "I Got Rhythm," and at one point, invited children to play on the grand piano. Ms. Wang took time to answer the children's many questions - ranging from, "What is your favorite song?" to "What did you do when you were a baby?", with humor and grace.
Ms. Wang left the students of Council Oak Montessori School inspired and excited. As one five year-old child currently enrolled in piano lessons said, "When I go home today, no T.V. for me. I'm going to practice, practice, practice! I want to play just like her."