“Hello, I am Michelle Choi from the United States of America. I was born in Chino Hills, California and have performed as a soloist since a young age, starting from recitals at a senior community center. Over the past years, I have gradually been awarded several prizes from various institutes, ranging from many gold, silver, bronze, and honorable mention awards. I still actively attend competitions and am currently practicing for them. Aside from playing classical piano, I enjoy playing the flute and running for my school’s cross country and track team.
I prefer various types of music rather than one specific kind. I mainly listen to genres such as indie and alternative, but rather than choosing by category, I listen to songs for their individual quality. Recently, I have been listening to Ballade No. 4 in F minor, Op. 52 by Frédéric Chopin.
I practice three hours a day on my own piano. I do not do any warm-up exercises, but I play my pieces broken down into sections using different rhythms so I can focus on smaller parts I have trouble with.
I practice an hour extra during the summer and breaks to prepare for competitions. I try to perfect technique and add musicality as the competition deadlines get closer.
I study with my teacher, Jiwon Han. She teaches me how to make my own music while still understanding the composer’s motives. She teaches me how to vitalize my style while maintaining the correct technique.
Although not specific, my dream is to someday help those around me regardless of who they are and what background they are from. My goal is to let people know that they are cared for. Even one act of kindness can make someone happy and spread hope in humanity.
I would choose humanitarian projects such as the International Committee of the Red Cross and Refugees International as victims are affected by the weights of warfare and violence. What happens to citizens may not be their fault, and it is essential for them to know that they are cared for and supported by people worldwide.”