Pianist Yu Qing Peng, the silver medallist of the 2024 National Youth Music Competition (NYMC), returns with full determination to the 2025 edition of the competition – this time, chasing gold.

At last year’s gala concert, the then 16-year-old Yu Qing mesmerised the packed Endler Hall with his performance of Maurice Ravel’s Piano Concerto in G Major, M83.

The Grade 11 learner at SAHETI School in Edenvale hails from Woodmead, Johannesburg. Neither of his parents plays a musical instrument, but his younger brother is diligently mastering the piano.

Yu Qing says he entered the 2025 NYMC to share his passion for music with audiences across the country.

According to his mother, his musical journey began at the age of six when he started figuring out little songs by himself on the keyboard she had bought him. Today, he studies under two teachers: Prof Mario Nell and Dr Olga Tsikhelashvili.

He would like to play other musical instruments, “but it might be too late to learn one,” he smiles. While the piano remains his favourite, he also loves the tones of the violin and cello.

His role model is renowned Argentine pianist Martha Argerich. He says he admires her incredible artistry and the resilience she has shown through both personal and professional challenges.

According to this budding musician, he practises two and a half hours per day. In his free time, he plays tennis at school and golf with his family; he also enjoys coding. He describes himself as dedicated.

The young pianist’s favourite composer is Frédéric Chopin. “The beauty and elegance in his pieces always captivate me,” he says.

If he were an animal, Yu Qing would choose to be an eagle. “They are fearless and fly high above challenges. I admire their tenacity to stay steady and independent. I try to bring these qualities into both my music and my life,” he explains.

When asked about his future, he shares, “For me, life is about balance. After achieving my professional goals perhaps in entrepreneurship or as a computer scientist, I aim to focus on building a meaningful relationship and eventually starting a family. My long-term plan is to create a life where both my career and personal relationships flourish. I would also like to travel to many parts of the world.”

Yu Qing’s life motto is simple yet profound: “Treat others with kindness and respect; the way you give is the way you’ll receive.”