Nicholas Zehao Bai, D.M.A., M.M.
Visiting Associate Professor (Piano Performance and Music Technology)
CPA 2002
419.530.2183
Biography
Chinese pianist Nicholas Zehao Bai has quickly established himself as one of today’s rising stars on the international concert stage. Recognized at competitions such as the Heida Hermanns International Piano Competition, Seattle International Piano Competition, Long Island International Piano Competition, and Thousand Island International Piano Competition, he has since appeared in major venues across the United States and China.
Born into a family of musicians, Bai began piano studies at the age of three and gave his first full recital at fourteen. In 2012, he came to the United States to study with Dr. Washington García. He later entered the studio of Marina Lomazov, with whom he completed his undergraduate degree, and pursued both his master’s and doctoral studies at the Eastman School of Music under the mentorship of Steinway Artists Marina Lomazov and Joseph Rackers.
Recent seasons have brought him top prizes, including gold medals at the GOCCA International Piano Competition, NASL International Piano Competition. In the upcoming season, Bai will embark on a nine-city recital tour across China, following a series of solo performances throughout the United States.
An active chamber musician, Bai has performed as soloist with the Virtuosi Brunenses Symphony Orchestra (Italy), Williamsburg Symphony Orchestra (USA), and Texas State Symphony Orchestra (USA). Together with his chamber and life partner, Ke’er Wang, he has appeared across the country, including as guest artist for the Southeastern Piano Festival’s opening concert, Texas State International Piano Festival, Lander University, and with the Williamsburg Symphony Orchestra.
Dedicated to teaching and mentorship, Bai serves on the faculty of the University of Toledo as Professor of Piano. He has also been invited to adjudicate competitions such as the Arthur Fraser International Piano Competition, MTNA Young Artist Competition, and the Miaomiao Rising Star Piano Competition.
Committed to community engagement and artistic collaboration, Bai and Wang co-founded the Miaomiao Piano Festival in Wuhai, China, in 2016, where they serve as Artistic Directors. They also co-direct Keyboard Explorations at Summer@Eastman and are integral to the Vivace International Music Festival, inspiring young musicians across the globe.
