Jimmy Gao Music Tuition Fund

Jimmy Gao, age 12, is a talented young pianist from Homer, Alaska. He began playing the piano at home at age 7 and started formal lessons at age 8. Just recently, he was awarded 1st Place in the Intermediate II Division at the Alaska Piano Competition (2013) at the University of Alaska. He is a recipient of the Jim Fulton Memorial Scholarship for Music Excellence and the Harbor School of Music & Dance Merit Scholarship.

Jimmy loves practicing the piano and performing. He says he most enjoys performing and sharing the music with an audience. He says that his goal when performing is to be part of the music instead of between the music and the audience. He will be using the summer months to polish pieces for a late summer recital to be held in Homer.

We believe Jimmy has a tremendous talent and have created this page to help offset the costs of Jimmy's music studies. A portion of his tuition is covered with scholarships but the remainder (approximately $180/month) is needed for this upcoming summer session and school year. Your donation will make a huge impact on a deserving student and is very much appreciated. Together, we can make a significant difference in this young artist's life.

The following video is Jimmy performing Beethoven at the Alaska Piano Competition (May 4, 2013).

Jimmy performs Schumann's "Mignon" from Op. 68 (Album for the Young). This piece was requested to be performed again for the Winners' Recital.

Jimmy and his piano teacher, Joel Pietsch.




In addition to playing the piano, Jimmy is an avid competitive ping-pong player! He enjoys reading and playing with his younger sister (1 year).