We were lucky to catch up with Maxine Gong recently and have shared our conversation below.
Maxine , we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
Finding my purpose in life has been a journey that intricately intertwines my identity as a musician with my profound educational experiences and the milestones I’ve achieved along the way. I am Maxine Gong, a concert pianist, a Steinway Young Artist, and a dedicated music educator, recognized for my contributions to classical music by Steinway & Sons. My academic journey, marked by rigorous training and scholarly pursuit, has been foundational to my development as an artist and educator.
Born in Shanghai, China, I was introduced to the piano at the tender age of two, setting the stage for a life deeply entwined with music. My formal education in music began under the tutelage of esteemed professors and took me across continents—from the Shanghai Conservatory of Music to the prestigious Eastman School of Music in Rochester, New York, where I earned my Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance. I further honed my skills and artistic vision at the New England Conservatory, securing a Master’s degree in Piano Performance. Presently, I am pursuing a Doctorate of Musical Arts at USC’s Thornton School of Music, under the guidance of renowned pedagogues such as Prof. Antoinette Perry, which reflects my commitment to achieving excellence in both performance and music education.
My musical achievements are a testament to my dedication and passion for classical music. Having been praised by Bellini News, Italy, for my “strong musicality and a first-rank maturity,” I’ve performed in some of the world’s most renowned concert halls, including Carnegie Hall and Teatro Massimo Bellini in Italy. My journey has also been marked by victories in prestigious international competitions and engagements in masterclasses with some of the most revered figures in classical music, further establishing my reputation as a distinguished pianist.
However, my purpose extends beyond personal achievements. It has been profoundly shaped by my role as an educator, where I have had the privilege of guiding young talents to their own successes, fostering a new generation of musicians who have garnered accolades in international competitions and secured places in top-tier universities. My dedication to community outreach, through initiatives like the Irvine Community Engagement Program and performing in senior homes and hospitals, underscores my belief in music’s power to heal, unite, and inspire.
In reflecting on my journey, I realize that my purpose is found not just in the accolades or the stages I’ve graced, but in the moments where I’ve used my music to touch lives, educate the next generation, and advocate for the transformative power of the arts. As a concert pianist and educator, my mission is to continue to share this gift with the world, leveraging my education, achievements, and experiences to enrich the tapestry of our collective human experience through the universal language of music.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
Diving into the core of my professional essence and the zeal that propels it sheds light on a life profoundly dedicated to music’s artistry, pedagogy, and communal enrichment. I am Maxine Gong, celebrated both as a concert pianist and a music educator, distinguished by my accolades as a Steinway Young Artist. My career transcends boundaries, from captivating performances in esteemed venues like Carnegie Hall and Teatro Massimo Bellini in Italy, to nurturing the forthcoming wave of musical talent in more intimate educational settings.
The most exhilarating aspect of my career is the dynamic fusion of performing and teaching. Each performance is a unique chance to forge deep connections, sharing the intricate tales, profound emotions, and the sheer splendor of classical music with my audience. In the realm of education, the true joy emerges from unlocking my students’ potential, steering them towards discovering their individual musical expressions. This harmonious blend of artistic excellence and mentorship lies at the heart of my brand, encapsulating a dedication to superiority, fervor, and the transformative influence of music.
Particularly close to my heart is my focus on community engagement and outreach. Through intimate performances in senior homes and hospitals, I’ve personally witnessed music’s capacity to heal and unify. These experiences solidify my conviction in the arts as an indispensable societal pillar, capable of connecting diverse groups and bestowing joy.
I am ecstatic to unveil the “Global Artist Music Competition” and the “SoCal Music Fairs,” in partnership with the esteemed Idyllwild Arts Academy. This venture goes beyond merely extending my professional pursuits; it embodies my deep-seated commitment to nurturing emerging talents and creating avenues for young musicians to demonstrate their abilities. The competition and fairs are designed to draw participants globally, providing them with a platform to compete, learn, and flourish. Our collaboration with Idyllwild Arts Academy ensures that these young artists have access to unparalleled educational resources, mentorship, and opportunities to advance their artistic journeys.
This initiative is a natural progression of my brand’s mission to inspire, educate, and enrich the musical world by acknowledging and aiding the development of up-and-coming talents. It marks a significant stride towards fostering a more inclusive and supportive atmosphere for young artists, motivating them to pursue their dreams and leave an indelible mark on the classical music landscape.
As we gear up for the “Global Artist Music Competition” and the “SoCal Music Fairs,” I invite readers, music aficionados, and budding musicians to partake in this thrilling new endeavor. Together, we can celebrate music’s enduring legacy, cultivate tomorrow’s artists, and continue to weave a rich, interconnected global music community.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Reflecting on the tapestry of my journey in the world of classical music and education, three pivotal qualities stand out as the cornerstones of my success: Resilience, Emotional Expression, and Lifelong Learning. These attributes have not only shaped my path but have also been instrumental in overcoming challenges and reaching new heights in both performance and pedagogy.
Resilience has been my armor against the trials and tribulations that accompany a career in music. The journey has been replete with moments of doubt, physical and emotional challenges, and the relentless pursuit of perfection. Cultivating resilience meant embracing failures as stepping stones and viewing challenges as opportunities for growth. For those at the outset of their journey, my advice is to persevere in the face of adversity. Patience and persistence are your allies; allow them to guide you through the ups and downs, knowing that each setback is a lesson paving the way to success.
Emotional Expression in music is the bridge that connects the performer with the audience, transforming notes into narratives that resonate with the soul. Developing this skill involves not just technical mastery of your instrument but also a deep, empathetic engagement with the music and its emotional landscape. To those early in their journey, I urge you to delve into the stories behind the compositions, to feel the emotions that inspired them, and to convey those feelings through your performance. Let your music speak not only of your skill but of your heart.
Lifelong Learning is the acknowledgment that mastery is a never-ending journey. My academic pursuits—from undergraduate to doctoral studies—underscored the importance of continually seeking knowledge, embracing new techniques, and being open to feedback. The world of music is vast and ever-evolving; remaining a student at heart allows you to grow with it. To individuals at the beginning of their musical paths, cultivate curiosity and a love for learning. Seek mentorship, attend workshops, and immerse yourself in the diverse world of music. Remember, every piece you study, every performance you give, and every critique you receive is a step towards becoming not just a musician, but an artist.
In essence, resilience, emotional expression, and lifelong learning are not merely qualities to aspire to but are essential components of a fulfilling journey in the realm of music. Embrace these attributes, and let them guide your path towards achieving not only professional excellence but personal satisfaction and growth in the beautiful pursuit of music.
What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?
When feeling overwhelmed, which is not uncommon given the intense pressures of being a classical pianist, my initial step is to maintain a keen self-awareness regarding my emotional state. I consciously acknowledge my feelings of being overwhelmed, reminding myself that while these feelings are valid, succumbing to negativity will not pave the way for improvement. It’s crucial for me to recognize this moment as a point of transition, where things can and will improve from here onwards. This mindset helps prevent the spiral into anxiety and fosters a more constructive approach to dealing with pressures, whether they stem from the intricacies of practice, the demands of performance, or the competitive nature of our field.
Here are a few strategies that build on this foundation of self-awareness and optimism:
Structured Breaks and Reflection: I incorporate structured breaks into my routine, using these moments to reflect on my progress and reassess my goals. This practice helps in managing the workload and alleviating the sense of being overwhelmed by breaking the cycle of continuous work.
Positive Affirmations: I employ positive affirmations to bolster my confidence and maintain a positive outlook. Reminding myself of past successes and the progress I’ve made reinforces my belief in my abilities and the potential for future achievements.
Seek Constructive Feedback: Engaging with mentors and peers for constructive feedback allows me to gain perspective on my work and my progress. This external input is invaluable for grounding my efforts and highlighting areas for improvement without losing sight of my strengths.
Embrace Flexibility: Being adaptable in my approach to practice and performance helps me to manage expectations and be more forgiving of myself. Recognizing that perfection is an ideal, not a constant reality, allows for a healthier, more balanced pursuit of excellence.
Prioritize Mental Health: I prioritize my mental health by engaging in activities outside of music that bring me joy and relaxation. Whether it’s reading, spending time in nature, or engaging in hobbies, these activities provide a necessary counterbalance to the rigors of my musical pursuits.
To those early in their journey feeling overwhelmed, my advice is to cultivate self-awareness and practice self-compassion. Recognize that it’s perfectly normal to feel overwhelmed at times. By adopting a positive mindset and implementing practical strategies to manage stress and expectations, you can navigate the challenges of a music career with resilience and optimism. Remember, the path to success is a marathon, not a sprint; taking care of your mental and emotional well-being is key to sustaining your passion and purpose in music.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.maxinegong.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maxinegong/
- Youtube: UCXVJKbwYFn4zN2-HMAhsStA
Image Credits
Marilena Belvisi Fotografie
