CIM pianist Joyee Wang named 2027 Presser Foundation Undergraduate Scholarship Award Recipient

The Cleveland Institute of Music continues its long track record of producing Presser Scholars, with pianist Joyee Zhaoyi Wang (BM27, Pompa-Baldi) named a recipient of the 2027 Presser Foundation Undergraduate Scholarship Award. 

A fourth-year student at CIM, she was selected for CIM’s Intensive Duo Program for five consecutive semesters and participated in the Advanced Piano Trio Program throughout her undergraduate studies. Wang has maintained a perfect 4.0 cumulative grade point average throughout her six semesters at the conservatory, earning Term Honors or Dean’s List recognition every semester. She will receive the $3,000 scholarship upon graduation. 

The Undergraduate Scholarship Award recognizes outstanding undergraduate students who demonstrate musical and academic excellence and exemplify the values of diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice. CIM students have earned Presser awards consistently over the past decade. 

“I’m deeply honored to receive this recognition from the Presser Foundation,” Wang said. “My time at CIM has given me opportunities to grow as a musician, collaborate with extraordinary artists, and discover how music can bring people together across cultures and communities. I’m grateful to my teachers, especially Antonio Pompa-Baldi, my mentors, and fellow musicians for their support, and I hope to continue using music to create meaningful connections with others.” 

Wang’s accomplishments reflect a dedication to both individual achievement and collaborative music-making.  In 2024, she earned Second Prize with JAX Trio at the Chamber Music Foundation of New England IX competition. In 2025, Trio Kundera was the only piano trio selected to perform at CIM’s Governing Members House Concert, and in 2026, the trio performed as part of the Musical Arts Series in Port Clinton. Wang also received the 2026 Music and Drama Club of Cleveland Award at CIM for outstanding musical achievement. 

Beyond the concert stage, Wang has demonstrated a commitment to service and community engagement. She served as a CIM Orientation Leader in 2024, helping incoming students transition to conservatory life, and worked as a Summer Program Assistant across three CIM summer programs in 2025 and 2026. She also serves as a choir pianist for the Vocal Arts Program at Cuyahoga Community College, collaborating with vocal students, and participates in community outreach performances through CIM’s Advanced Piano Trio Program, including concerts at senior living communities including Judson Manor. 

Wang’s approach to music-making also reflects her commitment to inclusion. Through collaborative piano, chamber music, vocal arts, and community outreach, she works with musicians across disciplines and experience levels. Her programming and performances bring together Chinese and Western repertoire, multiple languages, and varied musical traditions, creating opportunities for diverse voices and perspectives to be heard. 

“Joyee exemplifies the kind of musician CIM strives to develop: an artist whose exceptional musical and intellectual achievements are matched by a deep commitment to collaboration, service, and community,” said Scott Harrison, CIM’s Executive Vice President & Provost. “Her work demonstrates that preparing for a meaningful career in music involves not only artistic excellence, but also the ability to connect with others and contribute to the broader world. We are proud to see her recognized by the Presser Foundation.” 

The Undergraduate Scholar Award is presented annually by the Presser Foundation, a Philadelphia-based nonprofit supporting music and music education in the name of its founder, Theodore Presser. The award recognizes students who demonstrate a high level of musical and academic excellence while exemplifying the values of equity and inclusion. 

Wang’s selection continues CIM’s tradition of recognizing students whose achievements extend beyond performance to encompass scholarship, leadership, and service to the community.