Live On Stage, Inc.
The Mifflin-Juniata Concert Association and Live On Stage, Inc. will present Duo Beaux Arts at Mifflin County High School on Wednesday, Oct. 22 at 7:30 p.m.

LEWISTOWN — Tao Lin’s fingers glide across the ivory keys as the beautiful sound of “Blue Danube Fantasy” by Johann Strauss Jr. and Greg Anderson erupts from his piano.

Sitting beside Lin, Dr. Catherine Lan awaits her turn, taking over the waltz. For a moment, the couple’s hands appear to be intertwined or downright tangled but she quickly takes her mark, playing for a few seconds before he resumes. The pace of the song increases as their hands move faster and faster. Both show remarkable skills and showmanship as they perform the well-known waltz.

Zipping and zagging around each other to play every note, it’s amazing their isn’t a four-hand pileup. Their chemistry is unquestioned, their musicality is impressive and their talents are mesmerizing.

Since its founding in 2008, Duo Beaux Arts — which consists of international concert pianists Lin and Tan — has captivated audiences with unique programming and dynamic music performances from diverse genres. The duo’s artistry combines technical brilliance with an adrenalized presentation that has garnered praise from both critics and audiences worldwide.

Though their performances appear effortless, the musical mastery of Lin and Tan, who are husband and wife off the stage, results from decades of dedication.

Lan, a native of Taiwan, began piano training at age 3 through a Yamaha program. Her teacher recognized her musical talent and encouraged her parents to pursue individual lessons. At age 8, she was accepted into a comprehensive music program sponsored by the Taiwanese government, where she was required to learn a second musical instrument; she chose the oboe. Lan recalled the challenge of mastering two instruments at a young age, yet her commitment never wavered.

At age 13, Lan’s family moved to Canada, where she pursued an undergraduate degree in piano performance at the University of British Columbia, followed by graduate studies at Indiana University to earn her master’s degree.

To escape the cold, she earned her Doctor of Arts degree from the University of Miami in sunny Coral Gables, making southern Florida her permanent home.

Lin, from Shanghai, China, also began his musical journey early, learning piano by the time he turned four. Both his parents were on the faculty at the Shanghai Conservatory of Music, the oldest and most prestigious conservatory in China.

His mother told him that she first noticed his musical sensitivity when he was moved to tears when she was practicing the slow movement of Beethoven’s “Pathétique.”

Lin said, “She looked at me sitting in the corner, weeping and thought, ‘That might be something.'”

Lin’s path continued through systemic training at a Chinese government conservatory at age 8, like Lan. “Eight must be some kind of magic number,” he laughed.

Moving forward, Lin pursued his graduate studies — ironically, also at the University of Miami, like Lan, then taught music at a university in southern Florida for 15 years.

The two met, married and pursued a career as a dynamic piano duo, performing at prestigious venues such as Carnegie Hall in New York, Izumi Hall in Osaka, Bartók Hall at Buda Castle in Budapest, Pianola Museum in Amsterdam and UNESCO Eufrazijeva Bazilika in Poreč.

Despite their global success, the duo cherishes performances during which they form a genuine connection with the audience. Lan shared that feeling the audience’s response is often more rewarding than playing on a wonderful piano or in a venue with great acoustics.

For aspiring musicians or parents considering music lessons for their children, Lin advised, “Playing the piano is a wonderful activity — it is a lifelong companion. The older you get, the more beneficial it becomes for mental and physical health. Pursue it because you love it, not for fame or monetary reward. It’s a competitive field, and passion should be the driving force.”

The duo has taught masterclasses as pedagogues and appeared as guest artists across Asia, North America, and Europe, including at many summer festivals. They are grateful for their experiences, as Lan loves to travel. Their career allows them to do both — work and explore.

In 2024, the duo served as artists in residence at La Maison d’éducation de la Légion d’honneur in Saint Denis, France — a school founded by Napoleon in 1805 and one of Europe’s most prestigious institutions.

Duo Beaux Arts continues to inspire audiences worldwide with their musical artistry and genuine connection, leaving a mark on any who have the privilege to watch them perform.

Presented by the Mifflin-Juniata Concert Association and Live On Stage, Inc., Duo Beaux Arts performs at Mifflin County High School, 501 Sixth St., Lewistown, Wednesday, Oct. 22 at 7:30 p.m.

For more information call (717) 994-4535, or visit www.mjconcerts.org.