Zixiao Ye

It truly means a lot to receive this recognition. Although we all know that music is not something easily compared — there is no absolute "better" or "worse" — being recognized by professionals and peers is an incredibly encouraging affirmation. As a composer and performer, self-doubt is something I occasionally struggle with, just like many artists do.

This award serves as a reminder that what I create resonates with others, and that gives me both confidence and motivation. Moving forward, I hope to explore even more personal and expressive directions in my music, while continuing to connect with listeners who find meaning in what I share.

I don’t remember the exact moment I realized music was my calling, but looking back, it feels like it was always a part of me. When I was young, my dad would take me to all kinds of concerts and recitals. I still remember the beauty and joy that music brought to me during those experiences.

Music has always felt natural — like a language I was meant to speak. Rather than trying to explain how I feel with words, I found myself drawn to the piano, where I could express emotions more freely and honestly. That quiet pull toward music never went away, and over time, it became clear that this was more than a hobby. It was the path I wanted to follow.

One of the most unusual sources of inspiration for me has been the smell of delicious food! I know it sounds odd, and I can’t really explain why — but sometimes, a certain aroma just sparks a feeling or a memory that makes me want to sit down and create something at the piano. It’s not always about specific melodies or stories, but more about capturing a mood or atmosphere. Just like music, a scent can be deeply emotional and nostalgic. Maybe that’s why it triggers creativity in unexpected ways.

I'm not sure I have any quirky rituals, but one thing I do care about is comfort. I always like to wear something comfortable when I'm composing or recording — it helps me relax and get into the right mindset. When I'm at ease physically, it's easier for ideas to flow naturally. I think creating music is such an emotional and personal process, so anything that helps me feel grounded and calm becomes part of that creative space.

I’d say my creative process leans more toward the conventional side, definitely closer to a carefully orchestrated symphony than a spontaneous jazz jam session. I like to take my time designing the chords, harmony, and overall structure with care and intention. For me, every detail matters, and I enjoy shaping a piece gradually, layer by layer, until it feels complete. While inspiration might strike in a spontaneous moment, the actual process of bringing a piece to life is thoughtful and deliberate.

When people hear my music, I hope they feel an emotional connection, something personal, even if they can’t quite put it into words.
I want the music to create a quiet space where listeners can reflect, breathe, or simply feel. Whether it brings back a memory, eases a moment of stress, or just makes someone feel understood, that kind of connection means everything to me as a composer and performer.

I would say the biggest risk I took was the decision to explore my music career in the United States. It was definitely an adventure — stepping into a new environment, far from home, with a different culture and language. But that leap opened up so many opportunities for growth, both personally and musically. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and gave me the chance to connect with diverse audiences, collaborators, and mentors. Looking back, it was a turning point that completely changed the direction of my journey.

For me, it was Chopin. His music was the first to truly make me fall in love with the art of expression through sound. There’s something so intimate, emotional, and human in his writing. The way he uses harmony, rubato, and melodic lines feels like someone speaking directly to the heart. Even as a child, I didn’t fully understand the technical aspects, but I could feel the depth and beauty in every note. Chopin’s music taught me that the piano could sing, and that realization has stayed with me ever since.

One major turning point in my career was during the pandemic in 2020. When everything shut down and live performances were no longer possible, I started posting my music and performances online. It's something I hadn’t fully embraced before. That decision opened up an entirely new world for me. What started as a way to stay connected with music turned into an incredible journey. So far, I’ve received so much support and encouragement through this path. Now, I have over 100,000 followers on Bilibili, one of the largest video platforms in China, more than 20,000 followers on TikTok, and over 8 million streams on Spotify. These numbers mean a lot, but more importantly, they reflect the real people who listen to and connect with my music. That shift from traditional performance to digital sharing has truly shaped the artist I am today.

Sincerity — music must carry one hundred percent sincerity to truly resonate. To me, authenticity is the soul of music. Without it, no matter how complex or polished a piece is, it won't touch the heart.

The most challenging part of creating You Shine in the Breeze was definitely the beginning. I had a clear image in my mind, a feeling, a scene, an atmosphere. But translating that into music was not easy at first. I wasn’t satisfied with the initial melody ideas, and I ended up revising them many times. It was a slow and sometimes frustrating process, but I kept pushing through because I believed in the vision I had. Eventually, things started to click, and the music began to reflect what I originally imagined. That experience reminded me that a difficult start doesn’t mean the idea isn’t good, it just needs more patience and care to take shape.

Yes! I have a couple of new pieces on the way. They are still in progress, but I’m really excited about how they’re coming together. Each piece has its own mood and story, and I’m hoping to release them this summer. I’m also experimenting a little more with texture and atmosphere, while staying true to my style. It feels fresh but still very personal, and I can’t wait to share them with everyone soon.

If I could collaborate with any artist, it would be Max Richter. His music has such a powerful emotional depth – cinematic, intimate, and thought-provoking all at once. Max Richter’s work has had a huge impact on me — especially his Recomposed: Vivaldi – The Four Seasons, Departure, and On the Nature of Daylight. Each of those pieces shows how deeply music can move people without saying a single word. They are rich with emotion, yet incredibly refined and spacious. Listening to them made me think differently about musical storytelling, how less can be more, how repetition can create meaning, and how sound alone can capture complex human experiences. That influence definitely shaped the way I approach my own compositions, and it’s a big reason why I would love to collaborate with him someday.

I would encourage fellow musicians to participate in music awards by reminding them that it’s not just about winning. It’s about putting your work out there, sharing your voice, and allowing your music to be seen and heard in new spaces. Believe in yourself and keep trying. Everyone’s journey is different, and recognition often comes after many quiet, unseen efforts. Don’t be afraid of rejection or comparison. Focus on creating music that feels true to who you are, and trust that the right people will connect with it.