WHAT: Chelsea Chen
WHEN: 8 p.m. Sunday
WHERE: Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church
ADMISSION: Free
Chelsea Chen, a young organist, will perform at 8 p.m., Sunday night at Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church.
Athens is just one stop in the 26-year-old's 26-city tour. A graduate of Juilliard, Chen has spent years perfecting her art. She took some time out from her touring schedule to talk to Post reporter Rosie Haney about her career, experience and favorite types of music.
The Post: What age did you start playing?
Chelsea Chen: I started on piano when I was 5 years old, I've been playing the organ since I was about 16, so about 10 years.
Post: Where has been your favorite place to play?
Chen: I've had some great experiences playing in Taiwan and in Singapore as well. In the U.S. I'd say my favorite organ is in Los Angeles, in the concert hall at (Walt) Disney Hall. Also, the organ at the Naval Academy in Maryland is really fantastic.
Post: What made you decide to pursue music professionally?
Chen: Well, I've just always really enjoyed performing, and I had a lot of opportunities to study with some really great organists and pianists. There was this one particular organist who was very inspiring. She played at the naval academy in Annapolis, Md. She still does, and she's an incredible improviser, and just a great performer.
Post: What genre of music is your favorite?
Chen: For playing, I like contemporary 20th century music. As far as writing music, I really like fusion. It's where I see the future of music. I also like classical music. I mean, Bach, Mozart, they're all great. But the music I feel resonates the most with me is both Latin and Asian.
Post: Are you looking forward to playing in Athens?
Chen: Yeah, one of my good friends goes there, and I'm really looking forward to just enjoying the town and the people.
3 Culture
Rosie Haney
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Chelsea Chen (PROVIDED)
