Hanxiao Lai, 25, was born in Shenzhen, China where she began her piano studies at the age of six. An engaging pianist, Hanxiao has given concerts in the United States, China, and Europe. As concerto competition winner, she has performed with the Idyllwild Arts Academy Orchestra as well as the Coachella Valley Symphony. She has been invited to ‘Malibu Friends of Music Concert Series’ as featured soloist and chamber musicians, and has performed in concerts held by the Steinway Society. She has been invited to music festivals including Aspen Music Festival and School, PianoTexas International Festival and Academy, Chautauqua Music Festival, among others. Most recently, she was awarded the First Prize of the Steinway Society Concerto Competition, Alternate of the Music Teachers National Association (MTNA) Senior Piano Competition of California, and the Second Place of CAPMT Honors Competition. During her time studying in the United States, Hanxiao is featured in National Public Radio’s ‘From The Top’ show. Her additional accomplishments include First prize of KAWAI Piano Competition, gold medal of the Qinxin Piano Competition, and the first prize of Imola Piano Competition in China. Hanxiao is currently pursuing her DMA in piano performance and literature at the Eastman School of Music under the tutelage of Prof. Alan Chow.