Creative Spotlight | Ying Ho
Published on 17 October 2022
Tell us a bit about who you are and what kind of creative work you make
I am a classical pianist. As a performer I’ve been lucky enough to travel and perform in many different parts of the world including England, Europe, Israel, America, China and Hong Kong as well as in all the major concert venues in Sydney, the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Town Hall, City Recital Hall and Chatswood Concourse. I spent about 5 years in London and completed my undergraduate studies at the Royal Academy of Music. At the moment, I teach at the Sydney Conservatorium. I’m also the Head of Keyboard at the MLC School in Burwood.
Whereabouts do you look for creative ideas? Who or what inspires you?
I look for creative ideas everywhere! I’m interested in other art forms such as visual arts, theatre, and dance. I visit art galleries and museums when I get the chance. I love literature although sometimes it can be difficult to find time to read! I find inspiration from other musicians, artists, great writers and thinkers.
How does your personal history, culture or experience inform your creative work?
I have had the opportunity to live and travel in other parts of the world and mix with different cultures. These experiences have shaped my work and my approach to creativity. I’ve lived in London and Berlin, both cities with very strong and rich classical music traditions and history. I spent a year in Jerusalem, this was an eye-opening experience! I was even involved in a Middle-Eastern band at one point!
What creative projects are you working on at the moment?
I have a concert tour coming up in Tasmania in October. I’m performing with the principal cellist from the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra, Jonathan Bekes. We’ll be performing music by Cesar Franck and Benjamin Britten at the Hobart Town Hall in Launceston and Devonport. Find out more
What’s your favourite part of working as an artist / creative?
My favourite part of working as an artist/creative is being able to express oneself through music. Self-expression and the thrill of performing on stage in front of an audience is for me the magic of being a musician. That and the chance to collaborate with many different musicians/artists/creatives. I enjoy collaborations with other people.
What’s the most challenging part of working as an artist / creative?
There are many challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic definitely hit the arts industry very hard. It was impossible to have live concerts and performances during this period and we are just now slowly recovering with a lot of audience members still somewhat hesitant returning to live performances.
We always love recommendations! Who are some other local artists we should check out?
Alexey Prokopenko is a very talented artist. You can check out his artwork here. He is also a great digital art designer and has an IT software company, www.kiteunion.com.au.
Where can we find out more about your work and get in touch?
You can find me on social media: @yinghopiano
I also have a piano trio: Facebook | Youtube
You can get in touch with me via email: ying.ho@sydney.edu.au