The U.S Music Certification Exams (USMCE) stands as a testament to the legacy of rigorous music education in North America. Developed by Dr. Scott McBride Smith, Chairman of the MTNA Global Innovation Center, and his team, USMCE integrates various examination systems from across North America. With a history spanning 125 years, USMCE's student performance assessment and display system focuses on prescribed piece performance and basic skills assessment. It is further supplemented by comprehensive skill tests such as sight-reading, sight-singing, and rhythm, alongside a practical understanding of music theory. This holistic approach makes the USMCE competition an internationally authoritative certification competition within the piano community.
USMCE's establishment of strict assessment procedures, meticulous compilation of teaching materials, and rigorous training of student assessors reflect its commitment to maintaining high standards. These procedures are tailored to the national conditions and student situations of various countries, ensuring that the assessment is both relevant and challenging. In this context, the appointment of Qing Zhao as a professional judge by USMCE highlights her teaching ability and proficiency in piano subjects.
Qing Zhao's appointment as a USMCE judge is a recognition of her achievements in the music industry. Her career is marked by a series of successful performances at venues such as the Guangzhou Opera House, Shanghai Steinway Hall, and New York Steinway Hall. Moreover, her experience as a semifinal judge for the Blüthner-Internationales Festival der Musik and the fourth Deutsch-Carl Ronisch-International Piano Competition, as well as her role as a juror for the 30th International Johannes Brahms Competition in China, underscores her expertise. This wealth of experience allows Qing Zhao to utilize her skills to identify the most promising contestants in piano competitions with greater accuracy.
Among the many accolades Qing Zhao has received, the "Best Piano Artistic Direction Award" stands out as the most significant. Reflecting on this honor, she remarked, "This award is an important milestone for me; it proves that my ensemble coaching and opera coaching are recognized by the industry. I understand deeply that music education is a career that requires continuous learning and progress. This award has strengthened my confidence to keep moving forward, continually improving my educational standards and teaching abilities to provide better music education for more students."
Qing Zhao's role as a judge for the sixth USMCE competition was a profound honor for her. She describes the experience as both unforgettable and enriching. During the competition, she had the privilege of witnessing many astonishing piano performances, each contestant showcasing unique musical talent and boundless potential. "As one of the judges, I not only need to objectively evaluate their technical proficiency and musical expression but also understand the deeper stories and emotional expressions behind their music," said Qing Zhao.
In her evaluation process, Qing Zhao discovered that each contestant had their own musical philosophy and style, making every performance a unique musical journey. She strived to remain fair and objective, dedicating herself to providing each contestant with constructive advice and feedback. Her goal was to help them grow and improve further, fostering their development as musicians.
Qing Zhao's contribution to the USMCE competition and the wider music education community exemplifies her commitment to excellence. Her journey as a judge and educator continues to inspire many, highlighting the importance of passion, dedication, and continuous learning in the pursuit of musical excellence.
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