An intimate evening of world-class classical piano, drinks, and dessert
You are invited to a private recital by Jack Gao, First Prize winner of the 2023 Naumburg International Piano Competition, and one of the most compelling young pianists emerging today.
Doors open at 7pm, recital starts at 7:30pm, followed by an optional drinks and dessert reception with the pianist until about 10:00pm. See photos/videos of previous Lilacs events here.
About Jack
Jack (Yang) Gao is a Chinese classical pianist recognized as one of the leading young pianists of his generation. Born in Beijing on December 18, 2003, he gained international attention after winning First Prize at the 2023 Walter W. Naumburg International Piano Competition, one of the most prestigious piano competitions in the United States.
Jack began studying piano at age four and composition at nine. He trained at the Middle School attached to the China Conservatory of Music, studying piano with Tianhong Tan and composition with Xin Xie, before continuing advanced studies in the United States. He is currently based in New York and studies at The Juilliard School with renowned pianists Jerome Lowenthal and Emanuel Ax.
His competition successes include the Gina Bachauer Piano Competition at Juilliard, the Munz Piano Competition, and the Steinway International Piano Competition, along with major international prizes. In 2025 he was personally selected by Martha Argerich as the laureate of the Martha Argerich Steinway Prize, highlighting exceptional pianists under 30.
As a soloist, Jack has performed widely in China and North America and made his Carnegie Hall recital debut in 2024. His concerto appearances include John Corigliano’s Piano Concerto with the Juilliard Orchestra conducted by Simone Young and Sergei Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 3 with the Orchestra of the China Conservatory of Music.
In addition to his performing career, Jack composes and frequently collaborates in chamber music settings, reflecting a broad musical approach that combines virtuosity, stylistic range, and creative curiosity.
The program
TBD