Dr. Esther Shin Chuang

Dr. Esther Shin Chuang is an internationally recognized pianist known for her vibrant performances and innovative concert direction. She has performed across North America, Asia, Africa, and Europe, gracing prestigious stages such as Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center’s Alice Tully Hall in New York, and St. Giles’ Cathedral in Edinburgh. Dr. Chuang began her piano studies at a young age, performing solo concerts by age seven. Her artistry has earned her awards in numerous piano competitions, including the Jan and Beattie Wood Concerto Competition and several others.

Dr. Chuang’s creative vision has led her to direct multi-sensory concerts designed to engage diverse audiences, such as “Come Play With Me” at the 13th George Town Festival and “The Enchanted Forest,” a concert-dance-theatre piece with environmental themes at the 14th George Town Festival in Penang, Malaysia. She has also contributed to the field of worship studies, holding a doctorate in Worship Studies and serving as a lecturer at several theological seminaries in Malaysia. Additionally, Dr. Chuang is a Steinway Artist, committed to maintaining the legacy of Steinway & Sons in Malaysia through both performance and teaching.

Here’s an overview of the featured repertoire for A Night of Romantic Concerto:

1. Tchaikovsky’s Festival Coronation March in D Major: Composed in 1883 for the coronation of Tsar Alexander III, this march is a triumphant, ceremonial piece that embodies Tchaikovsky’s flair for grandeur and patriotism. Its bold, stately themes and lively orchestration set a powerful opening tone for the concert, capturing the spirit of celebration and national pride.

2. Franz Liszt’s Piano Concerto No. 1 in E-flat Major: A true masterpiece of Romantic piano repertoire, this concerto is famous for its technical demands and emotional depth. Known for its dazzling piano solo passages and innovative, single-movement structure with four contrasting sections, it showcases Liszt’s genius in blending lyrical beauty with virtuosic intensity. Dr. Esther Shin Chuang’s performance as the soloist is set to highlight the piece’s passionate and poetic qualities.

3. Aram Khachaturian’s Adagio from Spartacus: This beautiful adagio comes from Khachaturian’s ballet Spartacus, a piece known for its expressive, sweeping melodies. The adagio, often referred to as “The Love Theme,” is lush and emotive, capturing the romance and tragedy of the story’s central characters. Its serene and heartfelt melodies provide a reflective contrast to the concert’s more dramatic moments.

4. Jean Sibelius’s Finlandia: One of Sibelius’s most famous compositions, Finlandia is a patriotic tone poem that conveys Finland’s struggle for independence. With stirring themes that progress from dark and turbulent to hopeful and majestic, it symbolizes the resilience and strength of the Finnish people. Its powerful crescendo and triumphant finale make it a rousing and inspiring conclusion to the concert.

Together, these selections offer a journey through the Romantic era’s emotive, lyrical, and patriotic music, showcasing the dramatic contrasts and expressive potential of orchestral music. This program not only highlights virtuosic performance but also transports the audience through a range of emotions—from grandeur and celebration to introspection and triumph.

Attending a concert is a wonderful experience, and adhering to standard etiquette helps ensure everyone enjoys the performance. Here are some key guidelines for concert-goers:

1. Arrive Early: Plan to arrive at least 15-30 minutes before the concert starts to find your seat and settle in. This helps avoid disrupting the performance and allows you to experience the full event.

2. Dress Appropriately: Dress in a manner that suits the venue and occasion. As this is a family concert, smart casual is acceptable.

 
3. Silence Your Devices: Turn off or silence your phone and other electronic devices to avoid distractions. Avoid using them during the performance.

4. Respect Seating: This concert is a free-seating performance. If you need to leave during the concert, do so quietly and return as discreetly as possible.

5. Stay Quiet: Maintain silence during the performance. Refrain from talking, whispering, or making any noise that could distract performers and other audience members.

6. Applaud at the Right Time: Applaud only at the end of a piece or performance. Avoid clapping between movements of a classical piece unless the audience is actively encouraged to do so.

7. Be Considerate: Avoid bringing large bags or items that could obstruct others' view. If you need to leave or enter during the concert, do so during a break or at less disruptive times.

8. Respect Others’ Space: Avoid leaning over or reaching across other audience members. Keep your belongings and movements within your own space.

9. Follow Venue Rules: Adhere to any specific rules set by the venue, such as restrictions on photography or recording.

10. Show Appreciation: At the end of the performance, express your appreciation through applause. Standing ovations are appropriate for particularly exceptional performances, but be mindful of the context.

By following these guidelines, you contribute to a respectful and enjoyable environment for everyone at the concert.