Conservatory student lauded as Young Steinway Artist
Mervyn Lee, a Year 3 student from the Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music (YSTCM), has been conferred the title of Young Steinway Artist on 1 October. Mervyn is the second NUS student to be presented with the award, following YSTCM alumna Abigail Sin in 2010.
Speaking of the conferment, Mervyn said, “I feel incredibly honoured and grateful to be conferred the title of Young Steinway Artist, and I am especially thrilled to be a part of the roster of internationally acclaimed young pianists from all over the world.”
Mervyn, who started learning the piano at the age of five, came to Professor Thomas Hecht’s attention 10 years ago when he listened to the child play. Prof Hecht shared that even at that young age, he could see “a wonderful disposition at the piano and that his potential was deserving of a special sort of mentorship”.
During his tutelage under Prof Hecht, Mervyn took part in numerous performances, including his public debut during the 2008 Steinway #1 Road Show hosted by the Conservatory, the President’s Young Performers Concert 2009, ChildAid 2009 and A Celebration of Keyboards in 2014. His debut performance with the Singapore Symphony Orchestra at the President’s Young Performers Concert 2009 cemented his decision to become a concert pianist.
For several years, Mervyn had to juggle his secondary school studies with his participation in the Young Artist Programme at YSTCM. “I often found myself having to prioritise one above the other,” he said. “Only after being admitted into the Conservatory as a full-time student did I have the time to fully concentrate on my craft and develop it further.”
Mervyn credits his “two greatest pillars of support” — his parents and Prof Hecht — for his success thus far. “My parents were understanding enough to continue supporting my decision to pursue music throughout the years up until now.” Speaking of the deep and lasting influence which Prof Hecht has brought to his musical life and craft, he added, “His mentorship over the years, as well as his support for my musical aspirations has contributed to most of my successes throughout my pianistic career.”
Mervyn, at 18 years old, is the second YSTCM student to be awarded the title of Young Steinway Artist
Prof Hecht is proud of his student’s achievement, saying, “His extensive musical knowledge is exceptional and his performances are nothing short of electrifying.”
The Young Steinway Artist award by Steinway & Sons, a premier manufacturer of exceptional pianos, aims to recognise and nurture young and exceptional concert pianists.
