Yingying Zong: A Rising Lyric Soprano

Yingying Zong, a lyric soprano from Shanghai, China, is quickly making her mark in the world of opera and classical music. Known for her rich, expressive voice, Yingying has been praised by renowned vocal coach Nelly for her “dazzling and rich” tone. Her unique vocal quality and emotional depth make her a standout talent.

Education and Training
Yingying’s musical journey began in Shanghai, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Musicology (Voice) from Shanghai Normal University, followed by a Master’s in Vocal Performance at the Shanghai Conservatory of Music. She is currently pursuing a Graduate Performance Diploma at the Peabody Institute of Johns Hopkins University, where she continues to refine her technical skills and stage presence under the guidance of world-class instructors.

Key Roles
    Musetta in La Bohème:
Yingying has portrayed the role of Musetta in Puccini’s La Bohème with the Wuxi Symphony Orchestra and Shenzhen Symphony Orchestra, where her vocal charm and emotional delivery were highly praised.
    Mimì in La Bohème:
At the Mediterranean Opera Festival in Caltagirone, Italy, she played Mimì, capturing the character’s vulnerability and emotional depth with an intimate yet powerful performance.
    Donna Anna in Don Giovanni:
Yingying’s portrayal of Donna Anna in Mozart’s Don Giovanni highlighted her ability to combine vocal strength with dramatic nuance, earning acclaim for her emotional depth and vocal precision.
    Nedda in I Pagliacci:
As Nedda in Leoncavallo’s I Pagliacci, Yingying’s portrayal of the tragic character’s inner conflict was both poignant and dramatic, showcasing her vocal prowess and emotional sensitivity.

International Recognition and Awards
Yingying has earned numerous accolades, including First Prize at the 2022 Swiss International Vocal Competition and Third Prize at the 2023 Vincero International Vocal Competition. She has also performed at prestigious events such as the Salzburg Festival and participated in the Mozarteum University Summer School in Austria. These experiences have helped her hone her artistry on the global stage.
 
In addition to her operatic achievements, Yingying is deeply committed to the study of art songs. Over the past six months, she has focused extensively on German and French art song repertoire, expanding her vocal range and interpretive depth. This exploration of art song has enriched her understanding of vocal phrasing, musical expression, and language nuance, which she brings into all her performances.                                 This summer, after dedicating time to art songs, Yingying returned to the opera stage, reaffirming her place in the world of opera with renewed passion and commitment. Her recent performances underscore her versatility, as she continues to balance the delicate intricacies of art song with the grandeur and drama of operatic roles.

Artistic Outlook
Yingying Zong is a versatile and rising star, excelling in both opera and art song performance. With her rich voice, emotional depth, and dedication to expanding her repertoire, she is poised to continue making an impact in the classical music world for years to come.

Affiliations:
    Peabody Institute of Johns Hopkins University
    Zhou Xiaoyan Opera Center
    World Youth Choir (WYC)