Hi! I am Yen-Hua Wang

Member of Punch Harmonica Ensemble

Guest Performer at Sirius Harmonica Ensemble

Hi! I am Yen-Hua Wang

Member of Punch Harmonica Ensemble

Guest Performer at Sirius Harmonica Ensemble

My Story

At the beginning of my harmonica journey, I thought the solitude I felt whilst playing harmonica calls for the need to perform in a group. I formed the first band with friends during university which fulfilled my desire to play the music with a group. Playing the harmonica gave me the experience of collaboration which kicked off my musical career.

Entering graduate school with my harmonica seemed to be a stable move, but I could hear a voice whispering in my head about how I need to push myself to my limits. In hindsight, it was because a new way of self-realisation appeared silently.  At my twenties, I saw my life could be two different selves: one was pursuing my intellectual curiosity and one was exploring the harmonica world which was filled with possibilities. I look back and remember that I had a conversation with a friend, I came to realise what I actually wanted. My central idea had shifted from the pursuit in the ivory tower to social connection. I believed I have the ability to handle both but searching within for answers, in reality, I knew I had to make a choice.

I play two different roles in Sirius and Punch Harmonica Ensemble. As the supporting role and the lead role in two bands allows me to discover the challenge and the charm of the two. Being a female player, from time to time I would pay special attention to the other women in different workplaces and learn from them. I believe that women have diversified appearances and have a strong desire to achieve success in the workplace which is not less than that of men. I often work with male players during my journey as a harmonica player. In 2015 and 2019, I took the initiative to work with a female pianist and guitarist respectively. On top of the dialogue between harmonica, piano and guitar, I would say they are the pieces of work that are inspired by females.

Highlights

2012  Second place at quintet category in Asia Pacific Harmonica Festival

2014  Champion at small group category in Asia Pacific Harmonica Festival

2016  Champion at chromatic harmonica solo open category in Seoul International Harmonica Festival

2017  Champion at trio adult category in Seoul International Harmonica Festival

2017  Outstanding at chromatic harmonica solo open category in World Harmonica Festival in Germany

2018  Champion at ensemble open category in Seoul International Harmonica Festival

2018  Has been selected in “Music Star 2018” which Organised by New Taipei City Culture Affairs Department and successfully hold a concert at New Taipei City Art Center Auditorium

2019  Co-production with guitarist Emily and attended Emily’s concert as a guest performer

Gallery