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Student Spotlight: Allison Zhang

Allison Zhang and Dr. Soo Young Lee

"I take music lessons because it helps me elevate my technique to a whole different level, and it also gives me a competitive atmosphere where I can learn endlessly."

Allison Zhang’s musical journey started early—she began playing piano at age four and hasn’t looked back. Now 17, she’s been a student at the Music Institute of Chicago since she attended the Summer Piano Intensive Camp at 11 years old.

“I fell in love with the friendly and competitive environment and found a compassionate teacher who has guided me throughout my musical journey,” she recalls. Since attending the Summer Piano Intensive Camp, Allison has been studying with Dr. Soo Young Lee through private lessons and Chamber Music classes.

chamber music rehearsal

Throughout her piano journey, Allison has achieved remarkable recognition. She is a CAMTA and NSMTA Summer Music Program Merit Scholarship recipient and a Triple Gold Medalist in the CAMTA, NSMTA, and NWSMTA Sonata-Sonatina Festivals. She also won first place in the 183rd Anniversary Best Tchaikovsky Performance International Music Competition.

Her performance experience includes appearances at the Merion Concert Series, the Steinway Piano Master Class Series with Christopher O’Riley and Jerome Lowenthal, the 2021 Chicago Chamber Music Festival, the Thirsty Ears Festival, and MIC's own Chicago Duo Piano Festival as a member of the Zhaust Duo. She has participated in masterclasses such as the Northwestern Summer Duo Piano Masterclasses and the 2023 Chicago Grant Park Masterclass with Joyce Yang.  A first-place winner in the 2023 American Protégé Music Talent Competition, Allison performed at Carnegie Hall and will be featured in the Steinway and Sons “Young Steinway Artist” Series in June 2024. She is also a 2024 and 2025 Steinway Young Artist and recently won first place in the 2024 Charleston Spring Competition.

Allison Zhang

Piano has taught Allison the value of patience. "The piano journey is very slow, and progress is only shown throughout a long extent of time," she explains. "It’s very hard to see progress by the day, making it difficult to stay patient and motivated. However, the end goal ultimately makes the process beautiful."

Though balancing practice with her busy schedule as a junior in high school can be challenging, Allison stays motivated through her mother’s support and the joy of seeing steady improvement. She also values her teacher’s advice on practicing consistently and efficiently. "My teacher had always taught me to practice consistently. It doesn’t matter if I practiced 5 hours or 30 minutes in a day, as long as I practice efficiently and consistently will it truly make a difference."

Beyond music, Allison finds creative expression through dance. Her dance journey has included Chinese folk dance, ballet, and participating in her high school poms team.

Allison Zhang

While she’s still exploring her future career path, Allison is interested in science, marketing, and social media. Music remains an important part of her life, providing her with skills and experiences that will stay with her no matter where her journey takes her.

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No matter your age or skill level, we’re here to help you grow as a musician. From first-time players to seasoned performers, everyone is welcome. . Get in touch to start your lessons with one of our experienced teachers today!

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Dr. Soo Young Lee

Piano & Chamber Music Faculty