Fan-Ya Lin, a senior in the piano program in the Sid and Mary Foulger School of Music, will play her final recital tonight in the Garrison Choral Room. Lin’s accomplishments have set her apart in the music program, and she has become something of a living legend within the department.
An international student, Lin grew up in Taiwan before moving to Ogden. Her professor, Yu-Jane Yang, played an integral role in recruiting her to Ogden, nearly half a world away.
“I’ve loved it here,” Lin said. “I really appreciate all of the support from my teachers and friends. Everyone is friendly and nice. It’s been a great experience.”
Many credit a large portion of the growth in the music program to Lin, but she denied exclusive credit.
“I play one part of it,” she said. “Many people, and especially the community, play a large role. It’s a group effort. My sponsors, George and Mary Hall, have been a great help. I played a fundraising concert where I raised $40,000, but I still needed $30,000 to upgrade my piano. They agreed to match. I’ve spent Thanksgiving and Christmas with them, and I really feel like they are family. Carol Hurst has also supported me from the beginning. It’s a group effort between the community, the school and the students.”
Lin has gained many fans, but few as loyal as the music professors at Weber State University.
For her recital, Lin will showcase Beethoven’s Op. 109, Leiberman’s Op. 29 and Chopin’s Etude-Double Third, and she will conclude with Chopin’s Piano Sonata No. 2.
Lin’s recital will be held this evening at 7:30 p.m. in the Garrison Choral Room, Room 136 in the Browning Center for the Performing Arts. Admission is free to the public. Children ages 8 and older are welcome to attend.