The Secret Piano

Discover the inspiring journey of renowned pianist Xiao-Mei Zhu in her memoir, Secret Piano. Born to middle-class parents in post-war China, Zhu's extraordinary musical talent emerged early, nurtured by her mother’s piano lessons. By the age of ten, she was enrolled at the prestigious Beijing Conservatory, where she honed her skills and immersed herself in the works of classical greats like Bach and Brahms. However, her promising career faced challenges during the Cultural Revolution in 1966 when she was just seventeen. This compelling biography, published in 2012 and spanning 330 pages, chronicles her resilience and passion for music against a backdrop of political turmoil. Join Xiao-Mei Zhu as she shares her personal narrative, illustrating the power of art and the human spirit. A must-read for music lovers and those interested in personal stories that transcend adversity.