Beauty in the Midst of Oppression

VOC was honored to host violinist Marjory Serrano and pianist Hsin-Yi Chen at the VOC Museum for a musical journey through Venezuela.

Dr. Marjory Serrano-Coyer and Dr. Hsin-Yi Chen, whose combined virtuosity and extensive experience have enraptured audiences across the globe, provide an unparalleled musical experience.

Dr. Serrano-Coyer, a Venezuelan native, began playing the violin at the age of seven. Her early tutelage from maestros like Ismenia Molina and Jose Francisco del Castillo set her on a path of musical excellence. Moving to the United States, she honed her skills at Shenandoah Conservatory and Catholic University of America, earning a Doctor of Musical Arts degree with a specialization in Latin American studies. Dr. Serrano-Coyer has graced prestigious stages like Carnegie Hall, the Walt Disney Concert Hall (Los Angeles), and the Kennedy Center, and participated in renowned festivals such as the Idyllwild Music Festival and the Castleton Music Festival Orchestra under Lorin Maazel. She also shares her expertise as an Adjunct Professor of Violin at Frederick Community College.

Dr. Chen, originally from Taiwan, started her piano journey at age five and pursued advanced studies under prominent mentors at Shenandoah University and the University of Maryland, College Park. Her accolades include first prize at the R.C. Evans Piano Competition and distinguished performances in masterclasses by luminaries including Midori Goto and Martin Katz. A versatile performer and dedicated educator, Dr. Chen has collaborated with esteemed artists and held teaching positions at institutions such as the Shenandoah Arts Academy. She recently joined the faculty at Frederick Community College and also continues to inspire through her private piano studio.

Together, Dr. Serrano-Coyer and Dr. Chen blend their profound individual artistry into a seamless and captivating musical experience. Their album, Sonatas Venezolanas, released in the autumn of 2023, has garnered much favorable attention both in the United States and internationally, including airtime in major US radio markets, interviews in European national radio, and being featured in the magazine “Venezolanos Ilustres.” Their dedication to their craft and their passion for sharing classical music make them an exceptional and compelling duo.