SECOND STAGE: Yixin Lin, piano | Shall We Dance | Graduating Student Project

“Shall We Dance” is an invitation — not only to dance, but to feel the rhythm and movement that exist in every form of life. Each piece in this program explores that idea through its own voice, showing how rhythm transforms from structure to emotion, from grace to raw energy.

Scarlatti’s two sonatas begin this journey with sharp contrasts: the F minor filled with tension and drive, and the F major bright, clear, and alive with motion. Schubert’s Sonata in A Major shifts the focus inward, where dance becomes an intimate conversation — gentle, human, and full of warmth. Chopin’s Polonaises elevate the dance into something larger than movement itself, embodying dignity, pride, and strength. Finally, Ginastera’s Danzas Argentinas returns us to the earth — rhythm as instinct, pure and untamed. Together, these works trace how music dances through time and spirit. “Shall We Dance” is not just a question, but a reminder that music itself is always in motion — inviting us to move with it.

Yixin Lin is a young pianist from Sichuan, China, currently pursuing her Master’s degree at the Longy School of Music of Bard College under Professor Gila Goldstein. For Yixin, playing the piano is about connecting with the composer’s spirit and sharing the power of music with her audience.

She previously earned her Bachelor’s degree from Music College of Sichuan Normal University, where she studied with Professor Meilin Ai. During her high school years, she was a student of Professor Daxin Zheng. Yixin has been recognized in several competitions, including the Franz Liszt International Youth Piano Competition and the Reed Catkins International Art Festival.