Riaxiang Huang: going from strength to strength!

Since winning fifth prize in our 2018 competition, Rixiang Huang’s career has gone from strength to strength.

Based in California, but travelling extensively for performances around the world, he has also founded both a successful music school and the Pacific Stars International Piano Competition and Festival, where he is Artistic Director.  Sarah Searle, our Alumni Coordinator, asked about how he’s doing on hearing of his recent recording with Naxos.

Sarah Searle: Congratulations on your Naxos recording of the Scarlatti Complete Keyboard Sonatas. Would you like to tell us more about being signed with Naxos? Was it your choice to record the Scarlatti?

Rixiang Huang: Signing with Naxos has been an incredible honor and a milestone in my career. The idea of recording Scarlatti was very personal—I’ve always been fascinated by the sheer variety and inventiveness of his sonatas. Choosing a selection from the complete set was a real journey, and I wanted to highlight both the elegance and eccentricity of his writing. Naxos was wonderfully supportive of the project from the beginning, and I’m thrilled that the recording has reached so many listeners around the world.

Sarah Searle: Since being a prize-winner in 2018 your career has really developed; you now have a large following and, more importantly, you’re also a Steinway Pianist. Can you tell us briefly how your musical career has progressed since the Hastings competition and how you became a Steinway artist?

Rixiang Huang: The Hastings competition was truly a turning point for me. It gave me the confidence and visibility I needed at that stage in my life. Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to perform internationally, release recordings, and work closely with wonderful musicians and mentors. Becoming a Steinway Artist was another dream come true. I’ve always loved the expressive possibilities of Steinway pianos, and being recognized by world’s best piano and brand is both humbling and motivating.

Sarah Searle: Do you have any pre-performance traditions?

Rixiang Huang: I do! I always take a quiet moment backstage—just a few deep breaths and a reminder to stay present. I also like to walk around the hall a bit before the audience comes in—it helps me feel connected to the space and the atmosphere. And, if there’s a piano nearby (and no one minds!), I’ll improvise a little, just to loosen up my fingers and my mind.

Sarah Searle: How was your experience at the Hastings International Piano Competition, and would you recommend it to other pianists?

Rixiang Huang: Absolutely—I would recommend it without hesitation. The Hastings competition was incredibly well-organized, with a warm and supportive atmosphere. Having the chance to perform a full concerto with a Royal Philharmonic Orchestra is rare and invaluable, especially at that stage of a young pianist’s career. I still remember the thrill of that performance vividly. Hastings will always have a special place in my journey.

Sarah Searle: What one piece of advice would you give to those just starting out on their musical careers?

Rixiang Huang: Be patient, and stay true to your voice. In a world full of noise and competition, it’s easy to lose sight of why we started in the first place. Stay curious, surround yourself with people who challenge and inspire you, and never stop listening—both to others and to yourself.

Sarah Searle: And just for fun, what would your perfect meal be?

Rixiang Huang: That’s a hard one—but I’d say a big bowl of hand-pulled noodles with spicy beef broth, followed by a really good cup of oolong tea. Comfort food for the soul!

For more information about Rixiang please do look at his excellent website or stream his music on Spotify.