Lee University’s Muen Vanessa Wei has been honored with the prestigious title of Steinway Artist, a distinction granted by the renowned pian manufacturer, Steinway & Sons. This recognition is reserved for pianists who exhibit extraordinary skill, artistry, and contributions to the world of music. 

“Being named a Steinway Artist is a great honor and a dream come true,” said Wei. “Steinway pianos are not just instruments for performance—they are partners in the creative process, capable of expressing the deepest emotions and nuances of music. To be recognized by such an iconic brand is both humbling and exhilarating.”  

The title “Steinway Artist” is awarded to accomplished pianists who have demonstrated exceptional talent and artistry. The Steinway Artist roster includes many of the legendary pianists in history, such as Sergei Rachmaninoff, Vladimir Horowitz, Martha Argerich, Diana Krall and Billy Joel.  

“We are privileged to have a pianist of this caliber on the Lee University faculty,” said William Green, dean of the School of Music. “This honor is a well-deserved recognition of Dr. Wei’s artistic talent, and we celebrate this achievement with her.” 

Wei joined Lee University’s School of Music in 2021 as an assistant professor of piano and serves as the coordinator of the piano division. Alongside her role as a studio instructor, she teaches courses in collaborative piano, piano literature, and pedagogy, while also overseeing the School of Music’s chamber music program. Prior to Lee, she served as a guest professor at China West Normal University and piano faculty at New Tampa Piano and Pedagogy Academy. She has collaborated with many great musicians including Lynn Harrell, Ian Hobson, Peter Lloyd, and Joel Smirnoff. Wei recently released an album featuring Jean Louis Nicodé’s solo piano music on the Toccata Classics label. Her debut album is titled “Im 3/4 Takt” and was considered “one of Centaur’s finest releases to date” by Fanfare.  

Wei earned a Doctor of Musical Arts from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, a Master of Music from the Cleveland Institute of Music, and a Bachelor of Music from the China Conservatory of Music.    

For more information about the Steinway Artist program, visit steinway-artist-program.