Life lessons

The US violinist reflects on the lessons learnt from her unique upbringing

‘Technically, my first teacher was my dad. But as any child taught by their parents will know, it can result in World War III! So when I was six, we began travelling to New York from Philadelphia twice a week for lessons with Dorothy DeLay at Juilliard. If you think of the most encouraging yet strict teacher, that was Miss DeLay. She had the perfect combination of sweetness while demanding excellence and instilling an amazing work ethic. It was only later that I appreciated how tailored her approach was to each student. I remember when I was about 13 and she could no longer travel with me owing to illness, she began telling me: ‘Learn how to listen to yourself, because you’re going to be on the road for the rest of your life.’ At the time I thought I was too young to hear that, but it turned out to be invaluable advice.

Chang aged six performing Mozart’s Violin Concerto no.3

TOP PHOTO COLIN BELL. INSET PHOTO DENNIS DIMMICK

I started touring professionally when I was eight. From remote schooling on planes to child services monitoring my rehearsals and concerts, I knew it wasn’t a ‘normal’ life, but it was my normal. I am particularly grateful to my agent Lee Lamont, who was the quintessential protective manager. When I was making the transition from high school to college, she would meet with all the university presidents and deans for me to ensure my studies would work around my schedule. I am also very grateful to other musicians, such as Midori, who experienced the same crazy life of a ‘child prodigy’. Her advice and friendship are things I will never take for granted.

My time at Juilliard was marked by amazing camaraderie, especially among Miss DeLay’s other students. I still see so many of them today. And no matter how many concerts I’ve done in my life, it is always the special projects with dear friends and colleagues that remind me why I do what I do. It really isn’t about the quantity of concerts but the quality.

I wish I had been told at a younger age how much of a business this industry is. Unfortunately it isn’t only about making music. I remember being so confused as a child about why we had four different lawyers in a room talking about everything from copyright to trusts and estates! That said, there have been very positive shifts in this respect, particularly with the demand for outreach. It’s beautiful to see the efforts of musicians to ensure an appreciation of classical music in the next generation.

It isn’t about the quantity of concerts but the quality

My advice for young musicians would just be to enjoy the moment before this art becomes a ‘job’ (and I hate to use that word!). It goes by very quickly. Enjoy the fact that you’re making music with colleagues and friends, and savour every moment you get to do that before the real world hits!

INTERVIEW BY RITA FERNANDES