Anya Fang’s Musical
Journey
An Interview with Anya Fang
Anya Fang’s journey at the Pettman Academy has been marked by growth, perseverance, and an unwavering passion for music. The young pianist, who has been studying at the academy for the past three years, shares how this transformative experience has shaped her path as an aspiring soloist. “These three years have been an incredible journey filled with growth, challenges, and countless memorable moments that have shaped my path as a musician”, Anya reflects.
Anya’s earliest memories of music are deeply nostalgic and brimming with inspiration. “It all began when I watched my cousin perform at family gatherings”, she recalls. “I was really interested and so I asked my mother for lessons”. Later, a friend’s violin performance opened her eyes to the sheer diversity of musical instruments and styles and fuelled her curiosity even further.
“He always pushes me to do my best and aim for higher excellence in my playing. Often, I am challenged with how to do things better and Mr. Endres is a spectacular guide.”
Today, Anya credits much of her progress to her current teacher, Michael Endres. “He always pushes me to do my best and aim for higher excellence in my playing. Often, I am challenged with how to do things better and Mr. Endres is a spectacular guide”, she says. Lessons with him are far from ordinary – each one challenges her to rethink her interpretations and refine her technique, thus imbuing her with the discipline and mindset needed to excel as a musician.
One of the most enriching aspects of Anya’s time at the Pettman Academy has been the opportunity to perform in regular student concerts. “I have been able to develop my musicianship through these performance opportunities and I am really appreciative of the Pettman Academy for providing so many”, she explains. The ability to share her music with an audience has taught her the nuances of communication through performance, helping her feel a sense of belonging in the wider musical community.
While Anya hasn’t participated in any recent competitions, she is enthusiastic about taking on future challenges that showcase her growth. Her first foray into performance came much earlier, during her primary school’s annual Talent Quest. “This event allowed me to show my friends and teachers that music was a big interest of mine. I always look back to these performances as it was a great environment to begin my performing journey”, she reminisces. That initial experience left a lasting impact on her, helping shape her mindset for future performances and nurturing her confidence on stage.
Among her many performances, one recital stands out as particularly meaningful – her debut at the Arts Centre Great Hall in Christchurch. Performing in such a prestigious setting was exhilarating, a proud moment for both Anya and her supportive parents. “That recital marked a milestone where I truly felt that I had found my voice through the piano”, she notes. “I felt proud to share my art that I had been practicing for more than a decade. My parents and I were really proud of how far I had come. The chance of being able to express myself through the music was so enjoyable and I look forward to future recitals”.
Anya’s musical tastes are broad and evolving. She enjoys experimenting with the diversity that music offers, constantly discovering new pieces that challenge and inspire her. Among her favourite pieces to perform currently is Frederic Chopin’s Etude Op. 10, no. 4. Masterclasses have been another significant component of Anya’s experience with the Pettman Academy. “Each session has offered me a unique perspective on interpretation and technique and the chance to learn from various instructors and observe their different approaches has been invaluable”, she says. Masterclasses are, of course, an excellent way to see how different teachers approach the same piece and for students to use these insights to aid their own understanding of the music.
“These three years have been an incredible journey filled with growth, challenges, and countless memorable moments that have shaped my path as a musician.”
– Anya Fang
Looking ahead, Anya has her sights set on the upcoming Concerto Competition, where she plans to perform Chopin’s Piano Concerto No. 1 in E minor. “Preparing for this event has been both demanding and exhilarating”, she says. This ambitious goal reflects her dedication and readiness to embrace new challenges. In the long term, Anya aspires to become a piano soloist, with a dream of performing on some of the world’s most prestigious stages. At this stage, however, Anya is wisely keeping all her options in terms of establishing a career.
“I felt proud to share my art that I had been practicing for more than a decade. My parents and I were really proud of how far I had come. The chance of being able to express myself through the music was so enjoyable and I look forward to future recitals”.
To younger musicians starting at the Pettman Academy, Anja’s advice is simple yet profound: “Take the most out of every opportunity, whether it be at a student concert or a masterclass”, she advises. She emphasises that each experience, big or small, contributes to a musician’s growth. “Everything that you try benefits you in the long run. Keep your mindset open and listen to the advice you are given. Most importantly, have fun!”, she concludes, embodying the spirit of determination and passion that has fuelled her journey so far.