About Vincent Zhang
Vincent Zhang
Vincent Zhang (he/him, b. 2006) is a Chinese-Canadian composer from Vancouver, BC, currently based in New York City. He is pursuing his undergraduate studies in composition at The Juilliard School under the mentorship of David Serkin Ludwig, Dean and Director of the Music Division. As the first Canadian composer in 30 years to be accepted into Juilliard’s undergraduate composition program, Vincent is proud to be the youngest Canadian composer in history to win the Juilliard Orchestra Competition.
Raised in Vancouver, Vincent envisions himself as an advocate for a new generation of innovation and diversity in Canadian new music on the global stage. His work interweaves Chinese cultural heritage with Canadian experiences, shaping his artistic endeavors and distinctive style. Dedicated to exploring the essence of modern vitality and the untapped potential of the human spirit through contemporary music, Vincent draws inspiration from his upbringing and a deep spiritual connection to the vast landscapes of the North Shore Mountains. He crafts raw, instinctive soundscapes that reflect his unique artistic vision. His fascination with untamed sonic textures stems from childhood memories of observing the serene ambiance of his Vancouver home, where nature’s quiet majesty first fueled his imagination and creative voice.
Beyond composing concert music, Vincent is a passionate advocate for interdisciplinary collaboration, engaging with diverse artistic disciplines. In 2024, he was selected as the principal sound artist for James Turrell’s installation exhibition at the Center for International Contemporary Art (CICA). His work extends into dance, having collaborated with choreographers and dancers from Lamondance, who have set multiple of his chamber pieces to movement, including his 30-minute symphonic ballet. Vincent has worked with renowned ensembles such as The Juilliard Orchestra, West Coast Symphony Orchestra, Amsterdam Brass Quintet, Loadbang Ensemble, Brightwork New Music Ensemble, and various local chamber groups, choirs, and musicians across the Greater Vancouver area. His compositions have been performed at esteemed festivals, including the Mostly Modern Festival, Impulse New Music Festival, Divergent Studio, Del Mar International Composer Symposium, and the Zodiac Academy and Festival.