Mackenzie Melemed to Bring KEYS ACROSS AMERICA to the WYO

The WYO Performing Arts and Education Center will welcome award-winning American pianist Mackenzie Melemed to the stage for Keys Across America on Thursday, Sept. 24 at 7 p.m. The performance celebrates the United States' 250th anniversary through nearly two centuries of American piano music, blending musicianship, storytelling and a fresh look at the country's musical history.

Keys Across America highlights music by some of the nation's most influential composers. The program brings together familiar American works with lesser-known pieces and contemporary compositions, offering audiences an opportunity to experience the breadth and evolution of American piano music.

Melemed began studying piano at age 4 and had already given more than 500 performances by age 13. He later earned his bachelor's and master's degrees as well as an Artist Diploma from The Juilliard School, where he studied with Robert McDonald and acclaimed pianist Emanuel Ax. A Steinway Artist, Melemed has been based in Finland since 2020 while maintaining an international performance career.

A recipient of the 2022 Avery Fisher Career Grant, Melemed has performed as a soloist with ensembles including the Philadelphia Orchestra, Helsinki Philharmonic, Edmonton Symphony, Polish Radio Orchestra and KBS Symphony. He is also a laureate of the American Pianists Awards and the China International Music Competition.