Fang Tao Jiang’s Solo Recital “On Wings of Song” Concludes Triumphantly at Carnegie Hall’s Weill Recital Hall

Renowned soprano Fang Tao Jiang captivated a full house on October 5 at Carnegie Hall’s Weill Recital Hall, presenting her solo recital “On Wings of Song.” The concert featured Metropolitan Opera pianist Jonathan Cameron Kelly as collaborative artist and special guests bass-baritone Le Bu, the SolAria Emerging Young Artists, and the New York Youth Vocal Ensemble, creating an evening filled with artistry, emotion, and inspiration. Her outstanding credentials could be found at (www.fangtaosings.com)

The first half of the program showcased Ms. Jiang’s vocal brilliance and expressive range through eleven art songs in German, French, Italian, English, and Chinese. Her nuanced interpretations and technical mastery drew praise from New York Concert Review critic Rorianne Shrade, who wrote:

“She projected a sound of considerable power and range… She sang with sincere dedication, navigating its high notes and long melismas with success…it showed some of her finest singing, as she soared through its phrases with a clear feeling for its purity.”

Shrade added:

“She sang with a playful spirit that found her pianist, Mr. Kelly, accommodating each whimsical fluctuation with aplomb and a keen sensitivity to her every impulse.”

The second half presented a vibrant array of performances. Ms. Jiang performed the aria of Guanyin from composer Huang Ruo’s opera Monkey King, followed by a dynamic and expressive duet from Mozart’s Don Giovanni with Le Bu. Her duet “Flower Duet” with mezzo-soprano Yushan Guo charmed the audience with its exquisite harmony and grace.

The concert also celebrated the next generation of musical talent, as Ms. Jiang shared the stage with the SolAria Emerging Young Artists — Qianxun Zhao, Reed Gnepper, Miaoyan Hou, Victoria Plasota, Andrew Hansong, Jingyi Du, Zhongjiancheng Deng, Haishan Lai, Sophie Edelman, Elkan Zhang, Yushan Guo, Ruochen Yang, Yuyao Chen and Ruocheng Liu — together with the New York Youth Vocal Ensemble.

A special  moment came when Qianxun Zhao, Miaoyan Hou, and Haishan Lai delivered a jazz-infused rendition of “Summertime,” blending tradition and innovation with flair. The trio of young tenors Reed Gnepper, Zhongjiancheng Deng and Ruochen Liu followed with a passionate and humorous performance of “O Sole Mio,” while twelve young singers offered a moving “Shenandoah.” The New York Youth Vocal Ensemble concluded the segment with an uplifting medley.  Sophie Edelman’s pure, angelic solo voice captivated the audience at Carnegie Hall — the critic noted. 

“It was a remarkable experience to travel on this blitz tour of some of film and theater’s most beloved tunes! It was heartwarming to hear these dear young voices.”

The evening culminated with Ms. Jiang and her students performing Verdi’s “Libiamo ne’ lieti calici” (Brindisi) — bringing the audience to its feet in thunderous applause.

Throughout the concert, Ms. Jiang graced the stage in four stunning couture gowns designed by internationally acclaimed fashion designer Grace Chen, in shades of blue, black, pink, and red — each embodying artistry, elegance, and individuality. The event transcended the boundaries of a traditional recital, becoming a celebration of music, culture and style. 

The concert also marked the official launch of the SolAria Global Music Foundation, dedicated to supporting the development of young artists and fostering global musical and cultural exchange.

Distinguished guests from The Metropolitan Opera, United Nations, Consulate General of China in New York, and the Asia Society and many music enthusiasts attended the event, offering high praise for Ms. Jiang’s artistry and vision. As critic Rorianne Shrade concluded:

“Suffice it to say here that she is a force of nature — combining her philanthropic, musical, and personal gifts into one impressive package.”