We had the good fortune of connecting with Jingze Sarah Gao and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jingze Sarah, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
My thought process behind starting my own business has been deeply influenced by the many great musicians and mentors I’ve encountered throughout my journey. Their unwavering passion for music and dedication to their craft have inspired me to not only pursue my art but also to create opportunities for others to thrive in the creative space.

My learning has been a gradual exploration, where I have taken the time to understand the nuances of the music industry and the needs of emerging artists. I realized that there was a gap in the market for platforms that support both established musicians and newcomers, which sparked my desire to innovate and establish an organization that could address this need.

As a professional pianist, I dedicated countless hours to honing my skills, practicing, and studying the art of performance. This commitment to excellence instilled in me the importance of continuous self-learning and adaptation, which I applied during the entrepreneurial process. I embraced challenges as opportunities to grow, experimenting with different ideas and formats for events and competitions that could foster artistic development.

I envision the festival and competition as platforms that do more than just showcase talent; they should also encourage collaboration, creativity, and community engagement. By bringing together musicians from diverse backgrounds, I hope to create an environment where they can connect, share their experiences, and learn from one another.

Moreover, I aim to incorporate innovative elements into the festival, such as interactive workshops, masterclasses with renowned artists, and opportunities for networking that go beyond traditional performances. I believe that by fostering a spirit of collaboration and creativity, we can help cultivate the next generation of musicians who are not only skilled but also equipped to navigate the complexities of the modern artistic landscape.

Ultimately, my goal is to create a thriving artistic community that inspires and uplifts its members, fostering a culture of creativity, innovation, and mutual support. Starting my own business has been a natural extension of my journey as a musician and educator, allowing me to pursue my dreams while making a meaningful impact on the lives of others.

What should our readers know about your business?
As the director of Bay PianoFest and San Francisco International Piano Competition, I’m excited to share more about our organization and what sets us apart in the world of music festivals and competitions. At Bay PianoFest and SFIPC, our mission is to create an inclusive environment that fosters artistic growth and community engagement for musicians of all levels. What distinguishes us from others is our commitment to offering not just performance opportunities but also comprehensive educational experiences. We provide masterclasses, workshops, and collaborative performances that empower participants to refine their skills and connect with industry professionals.

I’m particularly proud of the relationships we’ve built within the music community and the positive impact we’ve had on aspiring musicians. Witnessing their growth and success is incredibly rewarding. Our festival has become a nurturing space where talent can flourish, and creativity can thrive. We also focus on cultural exchange, bringing together diverse voices and perspectives, which enriches the overall experience for everyone involved.

The journey to establish Bay PianoFest and SFIPC has not been easy. Like any entrepreneurial endeavor, I faced numerous challenges along the way, from funding and logistics to building a reliable team. One of the biggest obstacles was navigating the complexities of organizing large-scale events while ensuring a high-quality experience for participants. I overcame these challenges through resilience, collaboration, and a willingness to adapt. I surrounded myself with passionate individuals who share the same vision and values, which has been instrumental in our success.

Through this journey, I’ve learned valuable lessons about the importance of community, flexibility, and maintaining a clear vision. Building a strong network of support has been crucial, as has the ability to pivot and adjust plans when faced with unexpected hurdles. I’ve also come to appreciate the power of collaboration and the impact it has on creating meaningful experiences for everyone involved.

What I want the world to know about Bay PianoFest and SFIPC is that we are more than just a festival and competition; we are a community dedicated to nurturing talent and fostering creativity. Our story is one of passion, perseverance, and a commitment to making a positive impact in the arts. We aim to create opportunities that inspire musicians to pursue their dreams and cultivate a lifelong love for music. Through our programs, we hope to contribute to the rich tapestry of the musical landscape and empower the next generation of artists.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting for a week, I would create an unforgettable itinerary that includes the vibrant energy of Los Angeles, the charm of San Francisco, and the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite.

We’d kick off our adventure by enjoying breakfast at The Dulce Cafe, my favorite spot from my time studying at USC during my doctoral program. After fueling up, we’d explore the cultural landmarks of LA, visiting the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and taking a leisurely stroll through the iconic streets of Hollywood. As the day winds down, we’d head to Santa Monica Pier to watch the sunset, soaking in the coastal views and the lively atmosphere of the area.

After our LA adventure, we’d embark on a scenic drive to Yosemite National Park, where we’d spend a day surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. We could hike to stunning viewpoints like Glacier Point or Yosemite Falls, enjoying a picnic lunch amidst the towering trees and granite cliffs. Following our time in Yosemite, we’d make our way to San Francisco, where we’d immerse ourselves in the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. We’d visit Alcatraz, explore the charming streets of Fisherman’s Wharf, and savor delicious meals at local restaurants like Kokkari Estiatorio. This week would blend the excitement of urban exploration with the tranquility of nature, creating lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for California’s diverse landscapes.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Absolutely! I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to all my professors, whose unwavering support and mentorship have been instrumental throughout my journey as a pianist and director. Each of them has contributed in unique ways at different stages of my development, providing guidance and encouragement that have shaped my artistic and professional growth.
As a pianist, I have benefited immensely from their insights into musical interpretation, technical mastery, and performance practice. Their diverse approaches to teaching have allowed me to explore various facets of my artistry, helping me to cultivate my own voice and style. Their encouragement to push beyond my comfort zone has been invaluable, leading to moments of growth that have defined my musical path.
In my role as a director and entrepreneur, I draw upon the principles and lessons I learned from my professors to create inclusive and inspiring environments for others. Their emphasis on collaboration and community engagement has profoundly influenced my vision for the projects I lead. I strive to foster an atmosphere where aspiring musicians can thrive, just as I did under their guidance.
I am incredibly grateful for their dedication and belief in my potential. Their influence extends beyond my personal achievements; it inspires me to give back to the community, nurturing the next generation of artists. Thank you to all my professors, especially Prof. Yoshi Nagai (SFCM), Prof. Rebecca Penneys (Eastman), Prof. Larry Livingston (USC), Prof. Garrick Ohlsson (SFCM), Prof. Gabriel Chodos (NEC) and Prof. Jeffrey Kahane (USC) for your invaluable support, mentorship, and the lasting impact you have made on my life and career!

Website: https://www.baypianofest.org

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bay_pianofest/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/San-Francisco-International-Piano-Competition-and-Bay-PianoFest-100078956940443/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCywU06QM0lZXsFpHVqJUq_w

Image Credits
Photo Credit: Scala Arts
Solo Recital PC: Yuqi Zhang

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.