Student Spotlight: Elijah Yang
June 6th, 2025
"When we were young, we didn’t have many opportunities to explore different musical instruments, especially without any music background. That’s why we’ve been intentional about supporting musical experiences for our children." - Yik Yang and Qian Sun, Elijah's parents
Thirteen-year-old Elijah Yang first discovered his love for music in fifth grade, when he joined the beginning band at school with a group of friends. “Music is fun and makes me happy—I’ve always been curious to learn more about it,” he says. While in the band, his teacher encouraged him to try the oboe. “The moment I heard its sound, I knew it was the right instrument for me.”
Now, Elijah has been playing the oboe for two and a half years and studies with Erica Anderson at the Music Institute of Chicago.
He describes his musical journey as one that started later than many of his peers, but it’s been defined by steady progress and a growing love for the instrument.
“I started later than many others, but I’ve come a long way and discovered how much I truly enjoy music,” he says.
Since beginning lessons at MIC, Erica’s teaching has helped him build both skill and confidence. “She’s helped me grow so much by teaching me techniques and musical skills, and most importantly, by encouraging me and guiding me in the right direction,” he says. “Her positive energy makes lessons enjoyable and inspiring.”
One piece of advice that’s stuck with him: “Step by step, you will achieve higher and higher.”
That mindset has helped Elijah stay motivated through daily practice. “I love hearing how my sound improves as I practice. Every small improvement motivates me to keep going,” he says. “It’s really rewarding to see and hear my progress over time.”
Outside of music, Elijah enjoys various interests from swimming and traveling to playing video games and visiting Chinatown for dim sum and desserts. But when it comes to music, he’s discovered something special.
A standout moment came when he was selected to perform at the ILMEA District 7 concert. “I was really excited to be accepted—it felt like all my hard work had paid off,” Elijah says. “Meeting other oboists and playing in a full band was such a valuable and inspiring experience.”
For Elijah’s parents, Yik Yang and Qian Sun, music has become a meaningful part of their family life—especially as something they didn’t have the chance to explore themselves.
“When we were young, we didn’t have many opportunities to explore different musical instruments, especially without any music background,” they shared. “That’s why we’ve been intentional about supporting musical experiences for our children.”
They have seen Elijah grow in many ways since starting his oboe lessons. “Elijah has developed a deeper appreciation for classical music and has become more goal-oriented, especially with exciting milestones like recitals and auditions for ILMEA and CYSO,” they said.
Their favorite part has been watching his relationship with the oboe take shape over time. "Seeing Elijah grow and form a lifelong bond with the oboe—it’s like watching him make a new best friend."
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