Presented by the Emerson/Harris Program for Private Study Solo Recital Series
Program
Livestream: https://mta.mit.edu/viewlisten/live-killian-hall
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About the Performers
Sophie Sun is a junior at MIT majoring in Course 6-9 (Computer Science and Neuroscience)and currently studies piano with Heng-Jin Park through the MIT Emerson/Harris Scholars program. She started her music studies first as a guzheng (Chinese zither) player, but switched to classical piano at age 12 after her family’s move from China to New Zealand. This transition was originally inspired by her younger brother. She has been in love with the instrument and classical music ever since then.
Attending her piano lessons has always been the highlight of Sophie’s week: not only does she get to immerse herself in music-making, but she also receives her weekly dose of love from Yoyo, her piano teacher’s dog. While Sophie loves all kinds of classical music, she has a particular obsession with depressing Romantic pieces. Outside of the practice rooms, one canoften find her spending time with members of the MITech Consulting Club, grinding on PSETs, binging shows with her roommate, or walking across to Symphony Hall with her friends to BSO concerts.
Coming from a large family of three dogs, one cat, eight chickens, and two (slightly) annoying younger brothers, Sophie pours her heart into everything that she does. Being far away from home at MIT has been an unforgettable experience for her. Although she is not sure what her future holds for her post-graduation, Sophie is excited to see where every day takes her, always with piano by her side.
About the Emerson/Harris Program for Private Study
Funded by the late Mr. Cherry L. Emerson, Jr. (SM, 1941) in response to an appeal from Associate Provost Ellen T. Harris (Class of 1949 Professor Emeritus of Music), the Emerson/Harris Program offers merit-based financial awards for private study in music to students of outstanding achievement on their instruments in classical, jazz or world music. Each academic year, the Emerson/Harris Program awards Scholarships and Fellowships to nearly fifty students who commit to a full year’s study and participate in the musical life of MIT. Private teacher selections, made in consultation with the music faculty, may include instructors from MIT staff and throughout Greater Boston.
