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Van Cliburn Competition Winner Haochen Zhang Makes UGA Presents Debut Feb. 10


January 28, 2026

A man in a black suit and glasses, intensely playing a grand piano in a bright room, with his hands actively pressing the keys and his expression showing deep concentration.

“Even more impressive than Zhang’s virtuosity is his quicksilver imagination.”—Gramophone

UGA Presents is proud to welcome internationally celebrated pianist Haochen Zhang to the University of Georgia Performing Arts Center for a solo recital Tuesday, February 10 at 7:30 p.m. in Ramsey Concert Hall. Zhang’s program will feature major works by Ludwig van Beethoven and Robert Schumann, offering an evening of profound expression performed by one of today’s most compelling keyboard artists.

Zhang rose to international prominence after winning the gold medal at the 2009 Van Cliburn International Piano Competition, becoming one of the youngest pianists to receive the award. Since that landmark achievement, Zhang has established himself as a major artistic voice on the world’s stages, admired for his rare balance of poetic sensitivity, intellectual depth, and formidable technical command.

Zhang’s career has included performances with many of the world’s leading orchestras and conductors, as well as appearances at major international festivals and recital series across North America, Europe, and Asia. In 2017, in recognition of his exceptional artistry and future promise, he was awarded the Avery Fisher Career Grant, one of the most prestigious honors given to instrumentalists in the United States.

Critics consistently praise Zhang’s playing for its emotional range and clarity of expression. His interpretations are noted for their architectural strength and lyricism, qualities that make him a particularly compelling interpreter of the Romantic and Classical piano repertoire. These attributes are especially well suited to music by Beethoven and Schumann, two composers whose works demand both structural insight and imaginative freedom.

The UGA Presents recital — supported by the Dixen Foundation and J.M. Dixen — will showcase this artistry in an intimate solo setting, allowing audiences to experience the expressive contrasts and emotional richness of Beethoven’s visionary piano writing alongside Schumann’s poetic and deeply personal musical voice. Together, the works on the program form a compelling exploration of the piano’s expressive possibilities.

BUYING TICKETS IS EASY

Securing tickets for UGA Presents performances couldn’t be easier. There are three ways to choose from:

  1. Purchase tickets online 24/7 here.
  2. Call the Performing Arts Center Box Office at (706) 542-4400, Mon.-Fri., 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
  3. Visit the UGA Performing Arts Center Box Office, Mon.-Fri., 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (5 minute parking is available in the drop off circle at the Performing Arts Center for purchasing or picking up tickets.)

You may also create your own series of three or more performances (10% off). UGA Presents single tickets start at just $30 with promo code PAC30 and UGA student tickets are $15. Information about accessibility and venue amenities is available on the PAC website. Parking is free.

(Photo: Benjamin Ealovega)