Wenhao’s
musical talent was first discovered and nurtured by his aunt at the age of five. They had a tradition of watching musical performances on the television and Wenhao would not be able to resist getting up and dancing; moving to the music. His mother recognized his love and passion for music as well and enrolled him in formal lessons at a small, piano shop in his local town. When he turned six, his mother decided to enroll him in formal piano lessons. Wenhao’s family continued to support him in his journey to be the artist he is today, especially his Grandmother who donated time and funding to make sure his dreams of being a pianist came true.
In 2018, Wenhao began his musical education at the Wuhan Conservatory of Music. Initially, he chose to major in piano tuning, thoroughly enjoying the tuning process, which helped him understand and connect with the piano on a deeper level. However, during his sophomore year, Wenhao realized his enduring passion for piano performance and the joy of being on stage.
As Wenhao’s love of performance evolved, he began formally studying piano under Dr. Jingbei Li. This marked the beginning of a true transformation from a piano enthusiast to concert pianist. In 2022, Wenhao was selected for the Elite Innovation Talent Training Program at the Wuhan Conservatory of Music and received his first scholarship. He used this scholarship to hold his debut solo piano recital, at the Bell Chime Music Hall, a significant milestone in his musical journey.
During his piano studies, Wenhao explored a wide range of repertoire from different musical periods. Gradually, he began participating in competitions, earning top results in the Pacific Stars International Piano Competition, Graves Piano Co./CEOMTA Piano Competition, Orbifold Global Music Competition, Qingdao Music International Piano Competition 2020, and the 4th Franz Liszt Youth Piano Competition. Due to excellence in academics he also received the Wuhan Conservatory of Music Alumni Scholarship.
Wenhao developed a particular interest in the music of John Cage, especially his prepared piano works. In 2023, he organized a special concert featuring prepared piano pieces, collaborating with six dancers to bring this unique music to the stage. Additionally, Wenhao engaged in research on traditional Chinese zodiac music, culminating in his thesis titled "The Integration of Ancient and Modern Chinese Wisdom: A Case Study of the Piano Suite 'The Twelve Zodiac Signs."
His passion and enthusiasm for teaching led him to initiate the Groove Music Project in 2020. This project raised funds for underprivileged youth in China to support their music education and provide the necessary supplies for music lessons.
In 2023, Wenhao began his post graduate studies at Ohio University, pursuing a Master’s degree in Piano Performance under the guidance of the renowned piano pedagogue, composer, and performer Dr. Christopher Fisher. Alongside his studies, he has served as the collaborative pianist for the Singing Men of Ohio and various instrumental and vocal students. He currently serves as the Vice President of the OU MTNA Chapter, where he continues to contribute to the musical community of Athens, Ohio.
Starting in 2024, Wenhao will serve as an instructor for undergraduate group piano classes at Ohio University, in addition to private studio at the Athens Community Music School.
