Levon Liang, a 16-year-old pianist from Vancouver, B.C., began his musical journey at the age of four at the Vancouver Academy of Music. Since joining YMAA in 2017, he has been actively involved in performances and events, sharing his artistry with audiences locally. Levon has distinguished himself in numerous competitions, earning first prizes at the 2024 Ukrainian Music Competition and VAYA International Festival, where he also received the

Long & McQuade Award and a VAYA gold medal. In 2023, he won multiple prizes in the CCTV Competition, performed on national television in Beijing, and claimed the Overall Excellence Award at the Vancouver Steinway Competition, which led to a solo at the Chan Centre for the Performing Arts. He has also appeared twice at Carnegie Hall, after winning top prizes in the Crescendo International Music Competition in 2019 and 2023. Academically, Levon excels as an honor roll Grade 11 student at Vancouver College High School. Beyond music, he enjoys badminton, reading, and the occasional video game. Levon’s dedication to both his music and academics reflects his strong work ethic and passion for excellence in all aspects of his life.

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Betty Wu is a Grade 10 student at Prince of Wales Secondary School in Vancouver, BC. She began studying piano at the age of six under the guidance of Ms. Rebecca Kelly and has since earned her Royal Conservatory of Music ARCT Performance Diploma with First Class Honours. Over the years, her musical journey has led to achieving numerous awards at local music competitions, and within it, a passion for music. Beyond piano, Betty is an avid programmer who enjoys bringing creative ideas to life through projects in multiple programming languages. She also has a strong interest in visual arts and swimming. In addition to her involvement with the Youth Musician & Artist Association, she co-founded the Vancouver Institute of Business and Science, where she leads Design and Technology and tutors students, offering free education to those in need. This year, Betty is thrilled to serve as Media Coordinator at YMAA and looks forward to contributing to a rewarding and exciting year ahead.​

Jonathan Zhou is a grade 11 student who currently goes to Steveston-London Secondary School and he joined YMAA in 2023. He started learning piano at the age of 6 and finished his Royal Conservatory of Music ARCT diploma at the age of 12. He has received awards from local competitions and enjoys learning famous pieces. He also started playing the alto saxophone and is currently focusing on his jazz performance. Having a deep passion for music has allowed Jonathan to win multiple music awards as well. Jonathan continues to enjoy and learn new skills to expand his knowledge on not only the music world, but in other areas as well. Jonathan also enjoys helping advocate for the environment
with the City of Richmond to help raise awareness about climate change. Known for his supportive nature and ability to connect with others, he looks forward to further accomplishments, and new opportunities for growth. Jonathan looks forward to a very successful year ahead and wishes the best to all YMAA members.

Jeffrey Zheng is a Grade 9 student at Lord Byng Secondary School and currently serves as a Leader at YMAA. He plays flute with the Richmond Delta Youth Orchestra Symphony as well as in chamber ensembles, where he has developed strong skills in both solo and collaborative performance. Over the years, Jeffrey has actively participated in music festivals, competitions, and youth programs, gaining valuable stage experience and building confidence as a young musician. He especially enjoys community service through music, and frequently performs with his chamber ensemble at local senior homes, sharing the joy and beauty of music with audiences of all ages. Beyond public performances, Jeffrey is committed to continuous practice and learning, always seeking to refine his technique and deepen his musical expression. He looks forward to exploring new opportunities in music and to making meaningful contributions as both a performer and a leader.

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Isaac Liu is a Grade 9 student at West Point Grey Academy and has been a member of YMAA since Grade 5. He values the opportunity to contribute his musical skills to community initiatives through YMAA, having consistently enjoyed performing at senior homes and the Charity Concert since joining. He is pleased to assume a leadership role within the organization this year.

Isaac plays multiple instruments, with piano and viola at the ARCT level, and also plays guitar and bass. At school, he participates actively in performing arts programs, serving as a pianist and violist for the WPGA Wolfgang Orchestra and as a keyboardist for the WPGA Theater Company. In Grade 8, he received two awards at the school’s year-end ceremony: The Fine and Performing Arts Award for Music and The Inspirational Learner Award. Through participating in various music festivals, competitions, and charity concerts, Isaac has steadily developed his confidence on stage. He has performed at Carnegie Hall and takes part annually in piano symphony performances in Vancouver with different orchestras. Beyond music, Isaac is also interested in literary writing, tennis, chess, and fitness. He looks forward to exchanging ideas and growing together with fellow YMAA members.

Lavina Liao is a Grade 10 student at McMath Secondary School and a dedicated member of the Youth Musician and Artist Association, which she has been part of since 2019. Throughout her time with the organization, Lavina has consistently participated in all performances and events, demonstrating exceptional commitment and reliability. Lavina began her musical journey at the age of five and has since grown into a well-rounded and accomplished musician. She is currently working toward the Royal Conservatory of Music ARCT diploma in piano, while simultaneously pursuing her Level Ten flute diploma. Over the years, her dedication and hard work have been recognized through numerous awards and distinctions in both piano and flute at competitions, including the Kiwanis Music Festival, BCCM Music Festival, and the Richmond Performing Arts Festival. In addition to her musical achievements, Lavina has trained extensively in dance and has successfully completed the Grade Eight Royal Academy of Dance examination. Beyond arts, she is a strong academic student who remains actively involved in various school clubs and extracurricular activities. Looking ahead, Lavina is eager and excited for another successful and fulfilling year.

Karis Chan is a Grade 9 student at York House School. She began piano studies at the age of five at the Vancouver Academy of Music and has studied with Ms. Rebecca Kelly since 2022. She completed her Royal Conservatory of Music Level 10 examination with First Class Honours with Distinction and has received awards at various festivals and competitions, including performances at Carnegie Hall in New York after winning first place in the Crescendo International Competition. Beyond music, Karis enjoys reading, drama, and travelling, most recently participating in a school performing arts trip to Toronto. She is passionate about music, leadership, and community service. Since joining YMAA in 2023, she has been actively involved in supporting performances and events, and she looks forward to serving as Volunteer Coordinator this year.​

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Erya is a Grade 9 student at Lord Byng Secondary School and a passionate young musician who believes in the power of music to bring people together. She began learning the piano at the age of six, started playing the flute at ten, and discovered her love for the bassoon at twelve. Over the years, music has become not only a skill but also a meaningful way for her to express emotions and connect with others.

She is currently a member of the Vancouver Youth Symphony Orchestra (VYSO) Senior Orchestra, the Lord Byng Wind Ensemble, and the Lord Byng Symphony Orchestra, where she serves as the Principal Bassoonist. In addition, she is an active member of her school choir. Erya has participated in numerous music competitions and festivals, including the Richmond Music Festival, the Vancouver Kiwanis Music Festival, and Performing Arts BC, earning multiple awards for her performances.

Through music, Erya hopes to bring joy, comfort, and meaningful moments of connection to those around her.

Sabrina Feng is a grade 10 student at Lord Byng Secondary School with a strong commitment to music. Beginning music at a young age, she is consistently involved in performances in flute and piano. Pursuing musical studies, she is a member of the VYSO senior orchestra and her school wind ensemble. She has participated in numerous festivals as well, including local competitions, provincial events, and the Canada West festival, gaining experience in a wide range of settings. Beyond formal performances, she finds joy in using music as a way to connect with others and contribute to her community. Through these experiences, she can share her love of music with others. Continuing to refine her musical expression, she values opportunities that can lead to growth, communication, and collaboration. Beyond music, Sabrina maintains strong academic curiosity and actively seeks opportunities that challenge her, striving to grow into a well-rounded individual. Looking forward, she is excited to take on a leadership role and hopes for a successful year with the YMAA by embracing new challenges and sharing music in ways that are impactful.