By: Shan Jiang
In May 2025, the historic halls of Harvard University resonated with classical piano as over 100 young musicians from across the United States gathered at Lehman Hall for the 2025 Sound of Music – Australian International Music Competition North American division. The event featured a full day of competition on May 10, followed by an award ceremony on May 11. Pianist and educator Jie Zhu was invited to serve as a jury member and also gave a solo performance during the closing ceremony, offering her artistry and expertise to this international gathering.
An accomplished pianist and music educator, Jie Zhu is widely recognized for her work in piano pedagogy and her commitment to global music exchange. Holding dual Master’s degrees in Piano Performance and Music Education from the Longy School of Music of Bard College, Zhu’s influence spans continents. She has contributed to adjudication work in both China and the United States, including the MMTA Piano Competition in Massachusetts, and continues to advocate for the transformative power of music in both education and cross-cultural understanding.
In a post-event interview conducted by representatives of the organizing committee and Harvard-affiliated coordinators, Zhu reflected on the competition, the performances, and the broader role of music in education and cultural connection.
“This competition isn’t just about technique or rankings,” says Zhu. “It’s a cultural conversation through sound that brings together traditions, emotions, and dreams from around the world.”
A Competition with Global Reach
Originally founded in Australia, the 2025 Sound of Music – Australian International Music Competition North American division is part of a growing international platform, now including regional rounds in North America and China, along with a global online division. This year’s North American division was especially notable for being held at Harvard University—currently the only international piano competition hosted on the campus.
Participants ranged in age from as young as five to their late twenties, representing a wide spectrum of musical training and cultural backgrounds. The competition is recognized as a prestigious platform where young artists perform, receive professional feedback, and connect with peers and mentors in a world-class academic setting. More than a contest, it serves as a powerful venue for musical and cultural exchange.
Zhu brings to the jury not only years of international teaching and performing experience, but also a deep empathy shaped by her own journey as a pianist. “I understand what it means to spend months preparing for just a few minutes on stage,” she says. “That’s why I listen for more than just accuracy—I listen for voice, intention, and presence.”
She believes the most memorable performances are not defined by perfection, but by sincerity. “Can the performer share a story? Can they connect emotionally with the music? These qualities reveal depth and leave a lasting impression.”
Education, Resilience, and Growth Through Music
Beyond performing and adjudicating, Zhu is a passionate educator whose students span various ages and backgrounds. As a Steinway Educational Partner, she champions excellence in both technical foundation and expressive development, drawing from both Eastern and Western pedagogical traditions.
For Zhu, competitions are milestones in a broader personal journey. “Some children may not win a prize, but what they gain through the process is often far more valuable,” she says. “They learn persistence, focus, delayed gratification, and how to express something that is uniquely their own. These traits shape not only their musicianship but also their character.”
Music as a Cultural Bridge
Zhu sees music as a profound means of cultural connection. Having grown up in China, trained in the United States, and now working across both cultures, she brings a unique global perspective. “Music lets us meet beyond language,” she says. “It dissolves borders, fosters empathy, and helps us understand one another without words.”
She actively promotes cultural exchange through both performance and teaching. Her concert programs often feature Chinese composers, introducing Western audiences to the richness of Eastern musical traditions. In her studio, she encourages students to explore music from beyond their own cultural backgrounds, cultivating curiosity, respect, and dialogue.
Events like the 2025 Sound of Music – Australian International Music Competition North American division, she adds, are more than performances—they’re platforms for cultural storytelling. “Every student brings not only talent but also a cultural narrative. As educators and artists, we’re responsible for ensuring those stories are heard.”
Looking Ahead
Zhu remains dedicated to her dual calling as a performer and teacher. She is currently preparing for a solo recital and continues to mentor students with care and integrity. This summer, she was invited to serve as a specially appointed adjudicator for the 1st Shanghai International Forte Yearly Music Festival 2025, further expanding her contributions to international music education and performance.
“Music connects us—to one another, to ourselves, and to something timeless,” she says. “As long as I can share that connection with others, my work will always feel meaningful.”
Published by Joseph T.
