Li Yang Yang

What does music mean to you personally?

Music is like water to the soul, a source of healing for the spirit. Upon listening to it, we go on a magical journey, and that journey is filled with vivid images that are reminiscence of the elements we wonder about.

Do you agree that music is all about fantasy?

Some composers wrote music that might seem to future generations as powerful, but, in the composer's mind at their time, it might mean something else.

If you were not a professional musician, what would you have been?

A professional artist. I've always fascinated about art and particularly animation. I am in awe at the mere fact that some artist can create a splendid drawing out of almost... nothing! But again, every fulfilled dream comes from hard work, and, great passion.

The classical music audience is getting old, are you worried about the future?

Classical music will and always be the essence of music, not matter what age we live in, not only because of its rich and complex nature, but of the symbolic value it has provided throughout the centuries.

What do you envision the role of music to be in the 21st century? Do you see that there is a transformation of this role?

Though music will differ with the rise of technology, music in its essence will not change, for it will not be a major source of entertainment, but inspiration and enlightenment for future eras to come.

Do you think that the musician today needs to be more creative? What is the role of creativity in the musical process for you?

Music needs to be creative as much, for it is an art, and all art are born from creative souls. I personally value a lot of creativity in my works, and originality is important as well.

Do you think we as musicians can do something to attract the younger generation to music concerts? How would you do this?

There is a good strategy to attract younger generations to concerts. Make use of the compositions of people of their age, and put these songs in what younger people seem to love: movies, games, etc. There is a high chance that they will want to listen to that music in concert.

Tell us about your creative process. What is your favorite piece (written by you) and how did you start working on it?

My favorite composition of mine is Star of the North. It was featured on the sheet music website, MuseScore, in August 2017 and it's a song about love, innocence and youth. My creative process for this piece was pretty linear, although not all my songs are composed the same. Usually what I like to do is create a main melody, then repeat it, then continue with another passage. That's why a lot of my songs have clear melodies.

Can you give some advice for young people who want to discover classical music for themselves?

Listen to music as much as possible. Music is like a gem, waiting for you to discover it. The more you listen to it, the more you like it. Eventually you will find your niche (favorite genre). Start by listening to the most famous works. Then choose a era and a composer you like and enjoy some more.

Do you think about the audience when composing?

Yes, I wonder what will be their reaction when I publish the song. I wonder if they will be surprised if I create a new type of piece on my next release. :)

What projects are coming up? Do you experiment in your projects?

As of right now, I am trying to get inspiration. Who knows, maybe it'll come and within a week I will create another composition!