The auditorium at the University of Waterloo resonated with the enchanting finale of Frédéric Chopin’s Piano Concerto No. 1 in E minor, Op. 11, as the applause thundered in appreciation of a performance that transcended expectations.
Meet Catherine He, the astonishing pianist behind this virtuoso rendition. What sets her apart is not her professional music background or a major in the arts, but rather her pursuit of a computer science degree at the University of Waterloo.
Catherine He, who embarked on her piano journey at the tender age of four, recently clinched the prestigious title of winner at Conrad Grebel University College’s Concerto and Aria Competition. This biennial event invites students and recent graduates from the University of Waterloo to showcase their musical prowess with a piece designed for soloists and orchestra.
While studying computer science became He’s primary focus in high school due to her fascination with problem-solving, her passion for the piano remained unwavering. Her journey in music includes placing third nationally at the 2017 National Music Festival, a remarkable feat considering she was just 13 years old at the time.
He’s decision to enter the university’s concerto competition was driven by her unwavering love for music. The competition, sponsored by Dr. David Taylor, a professor emeritus in the Cheriton School of Computer Science, aligns perfectly with He’s aspirations to continue nurturing her musical talent alongside her academic pursuits.
Chopin’s Piano Concerto No. 1 in E minor, Op. 11, held a special place in He’s heart, being her favorite composer. Her dream of performing this masterpiece materialized at the concerto competition. “I love the way Chopin’s music touches the soul,” reflects He. “In his pieces, there are moments that range from heartbreaking to ethereal.” This wasn’t He’s first tryst with Chopin’s acclaim; in 2019, she secured the first prize in the Junior Category at the Canadian Chopin Piano Competition.
Mark Vuorinen, Chair of the Department of Music, praised He’s performance, describing it as “beautiful,” “virtuosic,” and “near flawless.” He commended her for delivering an “amazing performance of a challenging work” and emerging victorious from a highly competitive pool of twenty applicants.
In preparation for the November concert, He dedicated an hour or more each day to practice. Despite only rehearsing with the orchestra a few times before the final performance, her collaboration with the UWaterloo orchestra, under the direction of conductor Daniel Warren, resulted in an “exhilarating” and “magical” presentation.
As He reflects on the culmination of this musical journey, she expresses a mix of happiness and bittersweet emotions. The performance, a result of months of anticipation and dedicated practice, leaves her with a desire to relive the experience. “I almost wish it was tomorrow instead of a week ago, just so I could experience it again,” shares He.
Catherine He’s transcendent performance not only demonstrates her prowess as a computer science prodigy but also underscores the power of passion and talent converging across diverse academic and artistic realms.
