My piano journey has been one of deep connection and transformation, where each note played feels like sunlight breaking through the clouds, illuminating my soul. My dream as a pianist is to find enlightenment in music—to reach a place where the piano becomes more than just an instrument, but a vessel for something transcendent. Every note I play feels like a step closer to understanding the intangible truths that lie within the music. It's as if the music holds secrets about life, love, and the universe, waiting to be uncovered.
Artist Biography
Jerry Xiong is a Chinese-Canadian concert pianist and educator, celebrated for his deeply sentimental performances and his profound impact on music students in Victoria, B.C., and beyond. Raised in Victoria, Jerry's early musical journey was shaped under the guidance of the internationally acclaimed concert pianist, Shoko Inoue. Known for her emotionally rich and spiritually resonant approach to the piano, Shoko instilled in Jerry a profound sensitivity to the art of music, nurturing a performance style that is as diverse as it is artistically compelling.
Jerry’s dedication led him to achieve his Royal Conservatory of Music Grade 10 certificate with first-class honours, followed by the prestigious ARCT diploma in piano performance, also with first-class honours. His other achievements include receiving numerous scholarships from the Victoria Conservatory of Music for musical excellence, University of Victoria School of Music scholarships for musical excellence, delivering captivating performances at both public and private events across Victoria and internationally, and securing multiple first-place awards at the Greater Victoria Performing Arts Festival.
In June 2019, Jerry embarked on a transformative chapter in his musical career by studying under the esteemed Professor Denys Masliuk in Koper, Slovenia. Under the invitation of Professor Masliuk, Jerry spent two intensive years of training in performance, analysis, and composition enriched his artistic sensibility and broadened his musical horizons. His European debut in July 2019 at the stunning St. George's Cathedral in Piran, Slovenia, marked the beginning of a series of captivating performances across Europe. From the Gravisi-Barbabianca Palace in Koper to masterclasses in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, Jerry’s performances echoed his passion and commitment to the art.
Since his return to Victoria in 2021, Jerry has been completing his degree at the University of Victoria School of Music under the mentorship of the incomparable Professor Bruce Vogt. His conclusion of performance studies at the University of Victoria happened on September 12, 2024, where he gave a deeply reflective and triumphant graduation solo piano recital at the Phillip T. Young Recital Hall, performing works by Ravel, Scarlatti, Beethoven, and six of Liszt’s towering Transcendental Etudes. His interpretation of these pieces reflects not only his virtuosity but also the emotional depth that defines his artistry.
Jerry's profound appreciation for his teachers cannot be overstated. The unwavering support, love, and wisdom of Bruce Vogt, Shoko Inoue, and Denys Masliuk have been the cornerstones of his journey, guiding him through every triumph and challenge. Their influence has not only shaped him as a pianist but as a musician whose performances reach into the soul of the listener.
Throughout his career, Jerry has performed an extensively vast repertoire. He has showcased major works by composers such as ; JS.Bach, Scarlatti, Mozart, Haydn, Debussy, Schumann, Chopin, Rachmanioff, Beethoven, Shostakovich, Liszt, Ravel, Prokofiev, Bartok, Schubert, Brahms, and many others.
Jerry remains deeply committed to sharing his musical experiences with the world. Through his performances and teaching, Jerry seeks to inspire the next generation and his audiences, fostering a deep love and understanding of music that will resonate through their lives.