Master guzheng player and Wintec graduate reflects on life changing Kiwi experience
Video of Chen Xiyao (Yao), supplied by Education New Zealand
Talented musician and Wintec graduate Chen Xiyao (Yao) saw his passion for music flourish during his time in New Zealand.
A Chinese-born Kiwi, Yao was the first international student to graduate from Wintec with a Master of Arts (music) with distinction, completing his studies in 2011.
Wintec with a Master of Arts (music) graduate Chen Xiyao (Yao) playing the guzheng
“After I earned my Bachelor of Business Administration in New Zealand, I attended an institute of technology [Wintec] where my passion for music really took off.
“My teachers encouraged us to explore new ideas and make connections. This open environment sparked my creativity.
“I really appreciate New Zealand’s education system for its flexibility, which sharpened my critical thinking skills. Honestly, my learning experience here has been a life changing journey.
“In 2011, I became the first international student to earn the institute’s [Wintec’s] first ever Master of Arts with distinction,” said Yao.
After receiving his postgraduate degree, he remained with Wintec for some years, teaching music.
As a master of the guzheng, a traditional Chinese zither (stringed instrument), Yao joins a long line of family members who have played the instrument for 140 years.
David Sidwell, Wintec Team Manager Music & Performing Arts/Postgraduate, supervised Yao during his postgraduate studies.
“Yao is a passionate and talented musician, dedicated to his craft and culture.
“As part of his year-long master’s study, he recorded 11 traditional and contemporary guzheng music pieces.
“In his dissertation, he explained the importance of the traditional genre for modern day players and highlighted the effects that culture, politics, and Western influences have played over the years.”
“Our practice-led Master of Arts programme provides a supportive space with access to quality facilities and supervision. It’s a great environment for fostering critical thinking and creativity, and provides creative career opportunities and academic pathways,” said David.
In 2016, Yao had the privilege of performing for Prime Minister John Key and Chinese Ambassador Wang Lu Tong at a Chinese New Year function hosted in Parliament.
Chen Xiyao (Yao) with Prime Minister (Sir) John Key
“After my performance, Prime Minister John Key shook my hand and complimented my playing. It was truly a touching experience and also a reflection of New Zealand’s cultural inclusiveness,” said Yao.
After 20 years in New Zealand, Yao returned to China, where he lives today.
He still teaches music to students in New Zealand remotely from China.
Chen Xiyao (Yao) teaching a student online
Yao values his experience in New Zealand greatly and appreciates the impact studying abroad had on his life.
“I’m very lucky to have chosen to study in New Zealand as it has equipped me with career opportunities and a well-rounded set of skills… Honestly, my learning experience here has been a life changing journey.”
To learn more about studying with Wintec, head to wintec.ac.nz/
Visual content kindly supplied by Education New Zealand
