Jiayi Zhao
Pianist
Jiayi Zhao is a Chinese pianist and music educator currently based in the United States. Known for her expressive musicality and refined pianistic technique, she is active both as a performer and a dedicated teacher.
Zhao completed her Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance at the University of Wisconsin (2019–2023). She then continued her studies at the Mannes School of Music in New York, where she earned her Master of Music degree in Piano Performance (2023–2025) under the guidance of renowned pianist and pedagogue Eteri Andjaparidze. She is currently pursuing the Advanced Certificate in Piano Performance at New York University, continuing her studies with Professor Andjaparidze.
Alongside her performing career, Zhao is also an active educator. Since 2025, she has served as Adjunct Faculty at New York University, where she teaches group piano technique courses and private piano lessons. Her teaching combines professional performance experience with systematic technical training, helping students develop strong musical foundations and artistic expression. Her students have achieved excellent results in international and regional competitions and in music examinations such as ABRSM and NYSSMA, with several receiving full marks.
As a performer, Zhao has appeared at major venues including Lincoln Center and Alice Tully Hall in New York. She has also performed internationally at concerts and festivals in Italy and Australia. Her competition honors include the Gold Prize and Special Prize for Musical Expression at the London Young Musician Competition (Baroque Category), Third Prize at the Città di Massa International Piano Competition in Italy, and an Honorary Award in the Professional Artist Division of the Pacific Stars International Piano Competition.