Sophomore David Shiang won the opportunity to play in the Channel Islands Chamber Orchestra Young Artists Series on Jan. 25 and 27.

“Piano has been a constant part of my life ever since I was five years old. Over the past 10 years, I’ve [continued] developing as a player,” Shiang said.

Shiang said he was inspired by his parents to begin playing the piano.

“My parents have liked music ever since they were around my age, and my dad decided to let me try out piano,” Shiang said. “I tried piano out and was fortunate enough to have some really great teachers.”

The piece Shiang performed was Felix Mendelssohn’s piano Concerto No. 1 Movement 1.

“This specific performance is really special since I’ve been working on this piece for a year and a half now, which is the longest that I’ve ever spent [on a single piece],” Shiang said. “It is very technically and emotionally challenging, and I feel that it has shown how much I’ve grown as a musician and a person.”

Shiang said he had the support of those close to him throughout the process.

“Playing this piece would not have been possible without the support of my teachers, family, and friends. I am very thankful for all the love that they have shown,” Shiang said.

His sister believes that the piece “is very difficult, both technically and musically.”

“Over the past year, I’ve seen my brother mature and this is evident in his playing. Tackling this work has stretched him, from balancing his busy schedule to finding out what music means to him,” sister and senior Sarah Shiang said.

Kathy Bowman, an OPHS teacher, attended David Shiang’s performance.

“What I loved about the performance was that David’s work ethic and heart really came through in the performance,” Bowman said.

One of only four young artists invited to play, Shiang had to go through an extensive application process to earn his place in the performance. Shiang had to submit both a video audition and, once his video was selected, perform a live audition.

“The audition was stressful because this was the hardest competition I’ve competed in in my life,” Shiang said. “My 10 years of playing have led up to that audition.”

Shiang has a good idea of what he wants to do with his talents, even if it’s not for his career.

“I’m not exactly sure what the future holds, but I hope to play for the worship team at church when I’m an adult,” Shiang said.