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The Pensacola State College Lyceum Series presented Duo Beaux Arts at Ashmore Auditorium on March 31, featuring international concert pianists Catherine Lan and Tao Lin.
Since its founding in 2008, Duo Beaux Arts has captivated audiences with unique programming and dynamic music performances from diverse genres. The duo’s artistry combines technical brilliance with an adrenalized presentation that has garnered praise from both critics and audiences worldwide.
Dr. Kenneth Phillips, Head of the Performing Arts Department, stated, “I’ve been trying for a long time to get an opportunity for this duo to perform here at Pensacola State, and it finally happened. We don’t often get this level of piano performance here in Pensacola.”
Though their performances appear effortless, Catherine and Tao’s musical mastery results from decades of dedication.
Catherine Lan, a native of Taiwan, began piano training at the age of three through a Yamaha program. Her teacher recognized her musical talent and encouraged her parents to pursue individual lessons. At eight, she was accepted into a comprehensive music program sponsored by the Taiwanese government, where she was required to learn a second musical instrument; she chose the oboe. Lan recalled the challenge of mastering two instruments at a young age, yet her commitment never wavered.
At thirteen, Lan’s family moved to Canada, where she pursued an undergraduate degree in piano performance at the University of British Columbia, followed by graduate studies at Indiana University to earn her master’s degree.
To escape the cold, she earned her Doctor of Arts degree from the University of Miami in sunny Coral Gables, making southern Florida her permanent home.
Tao Lin, from Shanghai, China, also began his musical journey early, learning piano at four years old. Both his parents were faculty at the Shanghai Conservatory of Music, the oldest and most prestigious conservatory in China.
His mother told him that she first noticed his musical sensitivity when he was moved to tears when she was practicing the slow movement of Beethoven’s “Pathétique.”
Lin said, “She looked at me sitting in the corner, weeping, and thought, ‘That might be something.’” Tao’s path continued through systemic training at a Chinese government conservatory at age eight, like Catherine. “Eight must be some kind of magic number,” he laughed.
Moving forward, Tao pursued his graduate studies – ironically, also at the University of Miami, like Catherine, then taught music at a university in southern Florida for about 15 years.
The two met, married, and pursued a career as a dynamic piano duo, performing at prestigious venues such as Carnegie Hall in New York, Izumi Hall in Osaka, Bartók Hall at Buda Castle in Budapest, Pianola Museum in Amsterdam, and UNESCO Eufrazijeva Bazilika in Poreč.
Despite their global success, the duo cherishes performances during which they form a genuine connection with the audience. Catherine shared that feeling the audience’s response is often more rewarding than playing on a wonderful piano or in a venue with great acoustics.
For aspiring musicians or parents considering music lessons for their children, Tao advised, “Playing the piano is a wonderful activity – it is a lifelong companion. The older you get, the more beneficial it becomes for mental and physical health. Pursue it because you love it, not for fame or monetary reward. It’s a competitive field, and passion should be the driving force.”
The duo has taught masterclasses as pedagogues and appeared as guest artists across Asia, North America, and Europe, including at many summer festivals. They are grateful for their experiences, as Catherine loves to travel. Their career allows them to do both – work and explore.
In 2024, the duo served as artists in residence at La Maison d’éducation de la Légion d’honneur in Saint Denis, France – a school founded by Napoleon in 1805 and one of Europe’s most prestigious institutions.
The couple admitted the Basilique-cathédrale de Saint-Denis, the first Gothic cathedral and the necropolis of the Kings and Queens of France, is special to them. Located near the school, they were given a private tour.
“Once we walked through the doors, we felt like we were transported back 500 years,” reflected Lin. Movie fans might recognize it from scenes in The Hunger Games.
Duo Beaux Arts continues to inspire audiences worldwide – including Pensacola – with their musical artistry and genuine connection, leaving a mark on any who have the privilege to watch them perform.
To learn more about Duo Beaux Arts, visit https://duobeauxarts.com
For more great performances at Pensacola State College, visit https://performingarts.pensacolastate.edu/