01 September 2023

   

Young Pianists Shine at YAKA: A Summer of Musical Excellence

   

This summer, our two talented young pianists, Gabriella and Adriana Chami, embarked on a musical journey that took them from their home in Qatar to the heartland of the United States. They were invited to participate in the prestigious Young Artists Keyboard Academy (YAKA) at Missouri State University's Department of Music in Missouri.

This summer, two exceptionally talented young pianists, Gabriella and Adriana Chami, embarked on a musical journey that took them from their home in Qatar to the heartland of the United States.

The road to YAKA was no ordinary one. Gabriella and Adriana faced a rigorous selection process that required them to submit three videos each showcasing their piano skills. The level of competition was incredibly high, and the Chami sisters, being the youngest in terms of both age and years of piano experience, had to prove their exceptional abilities to secure a spot in this exclusive program.

YAKA was overseen by two distinguished professors, Dr. Su Wei-Han and Dr. Hye-Jung Hong. These renowned instructors are no strangers to the world of music, having conducted master classes not only in the United States but also in Italy and throughout Europe. Their expertise and passion for teaching made them the perfect mentors for the young participants.

The Chami sisters' dedication to their craft and the exceptional training they received in Qatar left a lasting impression on both Dr. Su Wei-Han and Dr. Hye-Jung Hong. They remarked, "It's evident that your daughters have had great teachers and a strong foundation in piano." Gabriella and Adriana's journey from Qatar to Missouri was a testament to their commitment to music and their desire to learn from the best.

One of the highlights of the YAKA program was the focus on collaborative music-making. All the students were immersed in the world of piano duets, an experience that challenged them to harmonize and create musical synergy with their peers. This emphasis on collaboration culminated in a final concert where the participants showcased their newfound skills, leaving the audience awestruck.

Gabriella and Adriana Chami's participation in YAKA at Missouri State University was not just a summer camp; it was a transformative musical experience. It highlighted their exceptional talent, dedication, and the global reach of music education. 

Their journey from Qatar to Missouri brought together young pianists from different corners of the world to create beautiful music together, demonstrating the universal language of music that transcends borders and brings people together in harmony. These young artists are bound to continue making waves in the world of classical piano, carrying the lessons and memories from YAKA with them on their musical journeys.