Shuan Hern Lee’s accomplishments in the music world would be impressive for someone of any age, but at just 19 years old, Shuan has well and truly earned the title of piano prodigy. 

Born to two piano-playing parents, Shuan’s musical journey began when he was just two and a half years old, receiving piano lessons from his dad. At the age of seven, he was a semi-finalist in Australia’s Got Talent, then went on to compete in The Voice Kids Australia at age 11. At age 14, he was the youngest candidate ever to obtain the coveted Fellowship of Music of Australia diploma and was accepted as a tertiary music student at the University of Western Australia that same year. 

In just a few days, Shuan will perform alongside the brilliant, Perth-based Sartory String Quartet and double bassist Andrew Sinclair in a special one-off concert presented by Musica Viva Australia. The concert will feature Chopin’s Piano Concerto No. 2; Haydn’s String Quartet in C, Op. 20 No. 2; and Chopin’s Ballade No. 4.

We spoke to Shuan about mastering the piano in his childhood and adolescence, his favourite piece in the upcoming concert, and more.

What are your first memories of playing the piano? Can you remember the first song you ever learned to play?

I have been told that my first performance was 'Mary Had a Little Lamb', but I am not able to remember it. My first memory of playing piano was eating watermelon in the morning and practising at the same time. It was quite enjoyable while I was practising separate hands! 

What was it like being accepted into university when you were just 14? How did being younger than the rest of your peers impact your on-campus experience?

It was quite exciting to be able to enter UWA at first. I was just really grateful and happy to be accepted. Being younger than everybody in my class has its disadvantages and nerve-wracking anxieties, but I will always be thankful to the peers that helped give me advice and show me ‘the ropes’. 

There are three beautiful works featured in Musica Viva Australia’s upcoming concert! Which one is your favourite?

I really like the Chopin Ballade No. 4. The Chopin concerto is spectacular and so is the Haydn. But there is something about the Ballade No. 4 that really resonates with my philosophy and temperament. I love performing that masterpiece. 

Other than classical, what’s your favourite music genre?

I don’t often purposely listen to any music other than classical music, but I have taken a liking to some wonderful jazz works. I also enjoy certain works by Japanese composers for animes and games as there is a strong link to classical music in those works. 

If you had to start all over again and choose another instrument to pursue, what would it be?

Honestly, it is near impossible for me to imagine myself playing another instrument professionally. But if I were to think off the top of my head I would say violin, as it was my second instrument that I started learning at a young age.

Don’t miss Sartory String Quartet & Shuan Hern Lee presented by Musica Viva Australia on Monday 8 November, 7:30pm!
Find tickets and more information.