Meet Annie Zhou | Guzheng Performer/Composer/Teacher

We had the good fortune of connecting with Annie Zhou and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Annie, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
Persistence: The Driving Forces Behind My Success as a Guzheng Musician

My True Passion: Playing and Sharing the Guzheng
Guzheng, a traditional Chinese instrument with a rich history spanning thousands of years, holds a special place in my heart. As a passionate Guzheng musician, I firmly believe that the two most critical factors leading to my success are persistence and talent. In this article, I will share my journey as a dedicated Guzheng player and how the combination of unwavering persistence and innate talent has shaped my musical path.

The Guzheng is more than just an instrument to me; it is a channel for expressing my emotions and connecting with the world. When I play, I immerse myself in the music, pouring my heart and soul into each note. This deep connection with the Guzheng fuels my unwavering persistence to excel in my craft.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Performances Across the United States In my musical journey, hard work has been an integral part of my life. Despite the challenges, I have embraced each opportunity with dedication and determination. Driving long hours with my instrument to reach event venues, often in different states such as Las Vegas or from Southern to Northern California, has been a regular occurrence. Enduring performances in scorching hot summers and windy outdoor events have tested my perseverance. However, the joy and satisfaction I derive from the audience’s response make every effort worthwhile. Their appreciation and positive feedback are a testament to the hard work I put into perfecting my craft, leaving me with a sense of fulfillment and deserving of their applause.

Among the prestigious events I have performed at are the Qingdao International Beer Festival, where I braved the elements to bring the fusion sounds of the Guzheng to the global audience. Additionally, at the Los Angeles County Holiday Celebration, I brought my all-female band “Amare Girls Band” to the stage and showcased the dedication to our artistry, despite the long hours of preparation and rehearsal. The Pacific Symphony New Year Concert, the City of Sierra Madre Summer Concert, and the Chinese American New Year Festival Gala were equally memorable experiences, each demanding relentless effort and commitment to deliver memorable performances. In these moments, I truly felt the value of hard work and its rewarding impact on both my music and the audience’s enjoyment.

Trusted by Prominent Organizations and Clients
Trusted by prominent organizations and clients, my dedication to ensuring their satisfaction has been a guiding principle in my musical journey. When working with esteemed clients, such as five-star hotels, high-end restaurants, and renowned casinos like Marriott and Pala, I make it a point to listen carefully to their needs and preferences. Some clients favor the allure of traditional Chinese music, while others prefer the enchanting melodies of pop cover songs played on my instrument with a unique twist. Understanding their desires and expectations, I invest significant effort in customizing the music to perfectly suit their events.

Furthermore, my musical talents have graced various significant occasions, including weddings, birthday parties, tea ceremonies, real estate events, and church events. Each occasion presents a distinct atmosphere and theme, and I strive to add a touch of elegance and cultural richness, enhancing the overall experience for attendees. By going above and beyond to tailor the music to the occasion, I aim to leave a lasting impression and ensure that the clients’ visions come to life through the enchanting sounds of the Guzheng. The trust and appreciation received from clients are a testament to my commitment to delivering exceptional performances that cater to their unique preferences and requirements.

The Journey of Persistence in Music Creation
Beyond performing, I have explored the realm of music composition. Creating original Guzheng pieces allows me to express my thoughts and emotions in a way that words cannot capture. Titles like “Spring Sprouts,” “Amare Girls,” and “Countryside Rhapsody” have not only won accolades at music festivals and competitions but have also resonated with listeners on a deeper level. In addition to composing, I license my Guzheng recordings to YouTubers and filmmakers, extending the reach of this ancient instrument to broader audiences worldwide. It brings me immense joy knowing that my music can evoke emotions and create a memorable experience for those who listen.

Throughout this musical voyage, I have encountered numerous challenges and obstacles, yet my passion for the Guzheng has fueled an unyielding drive to surpass them. Late nights are a common occurrence as I immerse myself in the creative process, tirelessly honing and perfecting my original compositions and recordings. The pursuit of excellence has become an intrinsic part of my musical identity, propelling me to continually push the boundaries of my craft. Each step of the way, I embrace the opportunity to refine my skills and explore new artistic horizons, allowing persistence to be the cornerstone of my success as a Guzheng musician.

Learn More about Annie Zhou
As my musical journey continues to flourish, I am delighted to share that my Guzheng music on various streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music. This allows music lovers from all corners of the globe to immerse themselves in the captivating melodies of the Chinese Guzheng and experience the profound beauty of this world instrument. Additionally, I am thrilled to announce the release of my book titled ” Ancient Strings: A Brief Guide to the Traditional Chinese Instrument Guzheng” This book delves into the intricate knowledge of the Guzheng, encompassing its rich history, playing techniques, Guzheng music schools, and more. It is now accessible on popular online bookstores, including Apple Books and Barnes & Noble. Through these endeavors, I hope to ignite a deeper appreciation for the Guzheng and inspire fellow musicians and enthusiasts to explore the boundless world of this remarkable instrument.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
We would start by indulging in a culinary adventure, visiting some of my favorite restaurants like Shunji and Nobu, where we would savor exquisite Japanese cuisine. To satisfy our boba cravings, we’d head to Motto, or a delightful stop at Urth Cafe for a taste of their renowned organic coffee and delectable treats. After enjoying the city’s culinary delights, I would take my friend to Santa Monica, where we’d bask in the glorious ocean view, stroll along the sandy beaches, and relish the refreshing sea breeze. To top off the trip, we’d head to the iconic Hollywood Bowl for an unforgettable concert experience under the stars. LA truly offers a diverse and unforgettable experience and there are just too many things to do.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?

I am deeply grateful to my fans and listeners worldwide, and those who purchased my CDs, books, and streamed my music. Your unwavering support has been instrumental in shaping my musical journey. Thank you for allowing me to share the charming sounds of Guzheng with you and for being a part of my artistic endeavors. To all my valued clients, your trust in my performances and recordings means the world to me. Your support inspires me to continue creating soul-stirring melodies that touch hearts and transcend boundaries. Thank you all for being a part of this extraordinary musical voyage.

Website: www.anniezhouguzheng.com

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AnnieZhouGuzheng

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@AnnieZhou

Other: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3TZsawYsbwnv6Z40pndApZ?si=DwIGIcSkSqylQbaKIGqzEw Annie Zhou’s Guzheng eBOOK: https://books2read.com/u/b5WNe1

Image Credits
photos were taken by Welkin Tang, Leo, Jonathan, Jiale, the team from the Music Center LA, and Pala Casino.