Alfred University students, faculty perform in Golden Night Concert at Lincoln Center

Alfred University music students and faculty from the Performing Arts Division took the stage Sept. 20 at one of the world's most iconic venues, Alice Tully Hall, Lincoln Center, New York City, as invited performers in the prestigious Golden Night Concert 2025.

Co-presented by the Manhattan Philharmonic Society and the New York Yellow Crane Club, the event brought together renowned artists from China and the United States for an evening celebrating the harmony of Eastern and Western musical traditions.

For Alfred University music students, performing alongside professionals on one of the world's most prestigious stages was both an extraordinary learning opportunity and a testament to their dedication, preparation, and artistry. Guided by Zhongbei (Daisy) Wu, clinical associate professor of Music and Language, Dr. Mason St. Pierre, assistant professor of Music (director of bands), and Jessie Thoman, associate dean of Performing Arts, students worked intensively to master a challenging repertoire in a short timeframe.

It was an experience that exemplified the Performing Arts Division's focus on mentorship and experiential learning. It also embodied Alfred University's commitment to providing students with transformative, hands-on experiences that prepare them to thrive in their fields.

The Alfred University performing team included student musicians Laura Bishop and Max Rasilla on violin, Angelina Olivera on cello, and Garrett Farabaugh on viola as well as music faculty Dr. Jessie Thoman on horn and Professor Zhongbei (Daisy) Wu on Guzheng. Music student David Howe served as photographer and videographer, capturing the ensemble's artistic journey throughout the process. Alfred University alumni, including Rick Lopez '14, attended the reception and concert to celebrate the University's performers and share in this milestone event.

Wu was featured on multiple pieces including "Song of Yimeng" with the orchestra and dancer Ruo Yi, "Ballad of Shanghai" with renowned vocalist Lin Bao, and "Ballad of the Pear Blossoms." Her artistry earned warm applause and was recognized as one of the highlights of the evening.

At the pre-concert reception, Thoman delivered remarks on behalf of Alfred University, expressing gratitude to Maestro Steven Fei Fang, artistic director of the Manhattan Philharmonic, for his mentorship and generosity, and praising Wu for her contributions to U.S.-China cultural exchanges. Thoman said Wu has "built a bridge of understanding through the Guzheng, bringing the beauty of Eastern music to Western audiences and fostering meaningful artistic dialogue across cultures."

"For any musician, performing at Lincoln Center is an honor," said Thoman. "But what makes tonight truly extraordinary is not only the stage we stand on, it is the spirit of generosity, mentorship, and collaboration that Maestro Fang embodies, and that he so warmly extends to our students and faculty."

Following the concert, Dr. Thoman said performing alongside world-class musicians and artists was an invaluable experience for the Alfred students. "Their dedication and artistry were inspiring, and this performance will remain a lifelong memory for all of us."

This performance at Lincoln Center underscores Alfred University's mission to connect the world through art and education and highlights the exceptional opportunities that become possible through the combination of student dedication and donor generosity. Support from the Levine Presidential Fund and David and Elizabeth Graves Miller Fund for Performing Arts provides essential resources that empower students to participate in professional-level experiences such as this one-helping them grow as artists, collaborators, and global citizens.

The Golden Night Concert 2025 stands as a shining example of what can happen when talent, mentorship, and philanthropy intersect. Through the ongoing support of donors like the Miller and Levine families, Alfred University continues to create access to transformative, real-world artistic experiences that inspire students to perform courageously, lead creatively, and build meaningful connections through the performing arts.