Concert Pianist's Plea: Rebuild After Fire, bring back Music

Dear Friends and Supporters,

My name is Yongmei Hu, and I am a concert pianist and teacher based in Pacific Palisades.

For years, I have poured my heart and soul into sharing the beauty of music with audiences around the world and students here at home. You may know me from my performances at prestigious concert halls—Alice Tully at Lincoln center in New York; Weill Recital Carnegie Hall; Oriental concert hall in Shanghai; Rudolfino in Prague; Great Philharmonic hall in St Petersburg; National Arts Center in Ottawa, etc or from my work nurturing young talents in Malibu and Los Angeles. You can learn more about my work at www.yongmeihu.com.

The recent Palisades fire has turned my world upside down. The flames started right outside my door, and within hours, my home was reduced to ashes. Everything I owned was lost, including my cherished 7-foot Steinway concert grand piano, my entire music studio, my extensive music library, and all the personal treasures I’ve gathered over a lifetime.

Imagine a life dedicated to music, built note by note, performance by performance, lesson by lesson. Picture the joy of sharing that passion with others, of seeing the spark of understanding in a student's eyes. This was my life, and in an instant, it was gone.

The loss is profound, but what I miss most is the ability to teach, to perform, and to bring the joy of music to people. My piano was not just an instrument; it was my voice, my companion, my livelihood. My studio was not just a space; it was a sanctuary where music was created and shared.

I am reaching out to you, my community, my friends, and fellow music lovers, for help in rebuilding my life. I am fundraising to replace my beloved Steinway grand piano and to rebuild my music studio. Your support will allow me to continue sharing the gift of music and to once again bring harmony to our community.

I understand that these are challenging times for everyone, but any contribution, large or small, will make a significant difference. I am on this journey largely alone, and your kindness and generosity will be a beacon of hope during this incredibly difficult time.

Thank you for considering my plea. Your support means the world to me.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Yongmei Hu