Noteworthy

At just 15 years old, Toronto pianist Ryan Huang has already performed on some of the world’s most iconic stages—including the Great Wall of China. This September, he will join the Toronto Symphony Orchestra’s Gala with Lang Lang in a special appearance at the Gala Dinner, performing alongside musicians from the Toronto Symphony Youth Orchestra.

A Lang Lang International Music Foundation Young Scholar, Ryan is celebrated for his expressive playing, fearless musicality, and ability to connect deeply with audiences. We sat down with him to talk about his inspirations, his favourite music to play, and what he’s most excited about for this year’s Gala.

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Noteworthy: What’s your favourite piece to play right now and why?

Ryan Huang: Without a sliver of doubt, it’s Scriabin’s Fantasy in B Minor, Op. 28. It’s a very grand piece with lots of climaxes and some incredibly vulnerable moments. For me, the standout is the second theme—it’s one of the most beautiful ever written for solo piano. When that theme comes back in chords, it’s euphoric to play.

NW: Who are some of your biggest musical inspirations?

RH: I have a favourite classical pianist, György Cziffra, whose playing is incredibly free and virtuosic—he’s inspired me a lot, especially when I’m playing Liszt. But I also have inspirations outside the classical world. My dad and I used to listen to the radio on drives together, and one of my favourites is Ozzy Osbourne. Black Sabbath is one of my favourite bands. Ed

NW: Do you have any pre-performance rituals?

RH: Not really. I like to be spontaneous before I perform. Sometimes I’ll stay backstage and read a book to calm my nerves, but that’s about it.

NW: What do you love most about performing live?

RH: Every hall sounds different, and it’s amazing to hear yourself on a big stage. But my favourite part is after I finish playing—when I stand up and see the whole audience smiling. It’s special knowing they’re smiling because of something I just did.

NW: If you could play a duet with any artist—past or present—who would it be?

RH: Liszt. He’s one of my favourite composers, and I always wonder how he would interpret his own music. I think it would be incredible to see him play live and to perform with him.

NW: What does it mean to you to be a Lang Lang Young Scholar?

RH: It’s an incredible honour. The program has given me so many performance opportunities—like playing on the Great Wall of China with my peers, which was truly once in a lifetime. Beyond the performances, I’ve built friendships and memories that make me feel part of a real family.

NW: What are you most looking forward to at the Gala?

RH: For the Gala Dinner, I’ll be playing in a quartet with musicians from the TSYO. That will be an extremely fun experience. I’m also excited for all the unknown aspects of the evening—it’s going to be an adventure.

NW: How has Lang Lang influenced your playing or approach to music?

RH: When I was younger, my teacher used to say my facial and physical expressions on stage were too exaggerated. But I couldn’t help it—they came from my emotions. Seeing Lang Lang perform showed me it’s not about controlling those expressions, it’s about playing with sincerity. If you play sincerely, your audience will feel it. Lang Lang is also a role model for how he promotes classical music and gives back to his community. I want to do the same—to share the gift of music and music education with the world.

With the sincerity of Lang Lang and the spirit of a rock star, Ryan Huang brings passion, power, and joy to the 2025 Gala Dinner stage. Learn more at TSO.CA/Gala.