October 2024 ⋆ Looking at the Stars

Looking at the Stars made its debut in the United States, performing two groundbreaking concerts in Massachusetts, marking a significant milestone in its 10-year history. The concerts featured the virtuoso Canadian piano soloist Tony Yang, who at just 16, became the youngest laureate to receive acclaim at the 2015 International Chopin Piano Competition in Warsaw. Yang captivated audiences with a compendium of works by the Hungarian composer Franz Liszt. Tony’s performances, interwoven with poetry readings and interaction with the housed individuals, took the audience on a profound spiritual journey through love, loneliness, darkness, and light.

MCI-Norfolk Performance on September 26

On September 26, Tony Yang performed at MCI-Norfolk, a medium-security male correctional facility housing 1,200 inmates. This facility, with roots tracing back to the colonial era and once home to Malcolm X, saw close to 200 inmates embrace Yang’s performance of Liszt’s complex pieces. For many, it was their first experience witnessing a classical concert, and their appreciation was palpable.

MCI-Framingham Performance on September 27

The following day, Yang performed in a more intimate setting for approximately 60 women inmates at MCI-Framingham. Just as in the men’s facility, the women were deeply moved by Yang’s exuberant style and the hope he conveyed. His candid explanations of the music made the performance even more impactful.

A Lasting Impact (From Eyewitnesses)

“We appreciate Looking at the Stars for choosing the Massachusetts Department of Correction to be the first correctional organization in the United States to host their concerts. The DOC continually looks to support and partner with programs that enrich and educate our housed individuals. The program and performance put on by Looking at the Stars was tremendous and had a profound impact on our staff and the incarcerated individuals under our care.” – Interim DOC Commissioner Shawn Jenkins

“I was very glad to be there. It was a wonderful concert and a wonderful thing to bring to people whose lives do not include enough beauty. .” – Massachusetts State Senator William N. Brownsberger