Birthplace: Edinburgh, UK | Studied in: Manchester and London, UK | Resides in: Leeds, UK
Born in Edinburgh and currently based in Leeds, Yuanfan Yang is developing a distinctive voice as both a performer and creator, through a multi-faceted role as a pianist, composer, and improviser.
Yuanfan’s repertoire spans from Baroque to contemporary music, reflecting his broad musical curiosity. Alongside solo and ensemble pieces, he has composed four full-scale piano concertos, which have been performed in China, France, Russia, and the UK. His concerts often include improvisations based on themes suggested by the audience, creating unique, spontaneous works that highlight his creativity and versatility.
He has been fortunate to receive several awards, including First Prize and the Audience Prize at the Casagrande International Piano Competition (Italy), and Second Prize along with special awards for Best Classical Sonata, Best Romantic Work, and Best Chopin Performance at the Ljubljana Festival International Piano Competition (Slovenia). He also won first prize at the UK International Piano Open Competition. In 2023, he became the first British laureate of the Sydney International Piano Competition in over four decades.
Yuanfan’s debut album, Watercolour, released on Orchid Classics, presents a mix of classical repertoire and original compositions, and was warmly received, earning four stars from International Piano magazine.