Nancy Zong: Capturing the Spirit of Debussy with Award-Winning Artistry
- WOMCO
- Aug 11
- 3 min read
Nancy Zong was awarded the Platinum Prize and the Best Debussy Performance Special Award in the Advanced (Age 18–22) category of the 2025 Season 3 Debussy International Music Competition.
What drew you to Debussy’s Études No.7 and No. 11 for your performance, and why did you choose them over his other piano works?
Debussy’s music has always had a profound impact on me. I was first introduced to his set of twelve Études by my professor, Danielle Salamon, during my time at The Purcell School. From the very first listen, I was drawn to the rich harmonies and the unique, atmospheric world he creates in these pieces. They’ve stayed with me ever since. One of my goals over the next few years is to perform and record the full set, and to share this incredible music with as many people as possible.
What draws you to Debussy’s music as a pianist—particularly as the recipient of the Best Debussy Performance Special Award? Are there aspects of his harmony, color, or atmosphere that especially resonate with your artistic sensibility?
First and foremost, I’m truly honored and grateful to receive the Best Debussy Performance Special Award. Performing Debussy’s music has always been a deeply rewarding experience for me, as his musical language resonates closely with my own artistic expression and style. Each time I play his works, I find myself fully immersed—drawn in by the colorful harmonies, fluid rhythms, and intricate textures that so vividly spark the imagination. It’s a joy to bring his music to life on stage.
Would you like to share your experience participating in our competition and anyone you'd like to thank?
It has been a great pleasure to participate in this competition, and I’m truly honored to receive these awards. I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to both of my professors, Danielle Salamon and Gordon Ferguson-Thompson. Their unwavering support, patience, and insightful guidance have played a vital role in shaping my musical growth. They have consistently encouraged me to explore my own interpretations and have greatly deepened my understanding of music.
Biography
Nancy Zong is currently an undergraduate student at the Royal College of Music, studying with Professor Gordon Ferguson-Thompson. She began her musical journey in Shenzhen at Lang Lang Music World, before continuing her education in Vienna, where she studied under Professor Elisabeth Dvorak-Weisshaar. Her time in Vienna was formative, inspiring a deeper understanding of music and offering performance opportunities at esteemed venues such as the Golden Hall (Musikverein), as well as a collaboration with the Youth Vienna Philharmonic Chamber Orchestra. She was also the recipient of several scholarships during this period.
In 2019, Nancy joined The Purcell School, where she studied with Professor Danielle Salamon. It was there that she developed a strong affinity for 20th-century French Impressionist music. Her interpretation is often praised for its atmospheric depth and expressive color, reflecting her artistic focus on music that evokes imagery and emotional connection. One of her most memorable performances during this time was at Wigmore Hall in 2023.
In addition to her solo work, Nancy is an active chamber musician. She recently formed her own ensemble at the Royal College of Music, with which she explores a wide range of repertoire.
Nancy continues to be inspired by the works of Debussy and other Impressionist composers, with plans to further explore and record their music in the coming years.
