About Me
Shiyu Fang is a Chinese pianist and composer whose work blends traditional jazz elements with innovative contemporary jazz compositional approaches. Currently pursuing her Master's degree in Jazz Composition at Manhattan School of Music under the guidance of composer Darcy James Argue, Shiyu brings a distinct voice to contemporary jazz.
Her compositions explore new sonic possibilities while honoring big band traditions. During her first year at Manhattan School of Music, her original big band composition was performed by the MSM Jazz Orchestra with vibraphonist Joe Locke. She also presented her arrangement of a Ron Miles piece at Dizzy's Club at Jazz at Lincoln Center in April 2025.
Shiyu has been honored as the 2025 recipient of the Mary Jo Papich JEN Co-Founder Women in Jazz Scholarship, recognizing her outstanding talent and contributions to the jazz community. In June 2025, Shiyu will make her headlining debut at Blue Note Beijing, performing alongside the Blue Note China Jazz Orchestra. The program will feature her original compositions and arrangements, showcasing her unique voice as a composer and bandleader. In addition to her headlining performance, Shiyu will perform as a pianist and sideman at prominent jazz venues throughout China, including Jazz at Lincoln Center Shanghai and the JZ Club.
Prior to graduate school, Shiyu received the Berklee Toshiko Akiyoshi Award for jazz composition. Her studies have been supported by the Herb Pomeroy Scholarship and the Berklee World Tour Scholarship, providing her with educational opportunities and industry connections.
As a member of the Berklee Institute of Jazz and Gender Justice, Shiyu's artistic development connects with her commitment to fostering inclusivity in jazz. She has studied with mentors including Kris Davis, Kevin Harris, Kenny Werner, Ayn Inserto, Billy Childs, Miguel Zenón, and Luis Perdomo—relationships that have informed her understanding of musical expression and composition.
Shiyu has performed alongside jazz artists including Miguel Zenón, Jim McNeely, and Bijon Watson. Her arranging skills were recognized when the US Army Field Big Band selected her work for professional recording.
In April 2023, Shiyu performed at The Vermont Solo Piano Jazz Festival as an Emerging Artist, sharing the program with pianists Dan Tepfer, Orrin Evans, Myra Melford, and Michael Weiss.
Shiyu's artistic practice extends to cross-disciplinary projects, including a collaboration with artist Rashid Johnson on "Antoine's Organ" and a solo piano residency at the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum— experiences that have expanded her creative range and artistic connections.
The path in jazz continues to unfold for Shiyu, driven by her interest in innovation, collaboration, and community. She hopes to contribute positively to the jazz world by supporting diversity and creativity, working toward a more inclusive environment where different perspectives are valued.
