Sound Pathways, May 14, 2025
Sound Pathways with Karen Olson, PhD
Guest: Vivian Fang Liu. Grammy Voting Member | Grammy U Mentor | Pianist | Singer-Songwriter | Teaching Artist
Hands, Heart & Harmony: Music as a Bridge to Purpose
Headlined Show, Sound Pathways May 14, 2025

What happens when music becomes more than sound—when it becomes a spark for service, a path to healing, and a bridge to a life of purpose?
On this episode of Sound Pathways, Karen Olson welcomes the extraordinary Vivian Fang Liu—award-winning pianist, Grammy Voting Member, celebrated composer, singer-songwriter, educator, and humanitarian. With a career that spans the world’s greatest stages—Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, and the Wiener Musikverein—and honors including “Best Songwriter,” “Artist of the Year,” and multiple Global Music Awards, Vivian is a force of creativity and compassion.
Vivian’s journey spans the stages of Carnegie Hall and the streets of Chinatown, where she leads her students in planting seeds—of both flowers and compassion. From her acclaimed music studio to heartfelt volunteer missions, she teaches young musicians not only how to perform—but how to care.
Her message is simple, yet powerful:
“Music brings us together. Then we give back—with music, with care, with action, and so much more.” —Vivian Fang Liu
Whether you're a musician, teacher, parent, or someone seeking inspiration, this episode will encourage you to listen to your inner rhythm and take creative steps toward your dreams—with your hands, your heart, and maybe even a
Grammy Voting Member | Grammy U Mentor | Pianist | Singer-Songwriter | Teaching Artist
Guest, Vivian Fang Liu

Vivian Fang Liu
Felix W. Ortiz, a member of the Assembly, states, 'Vivian Fang Liu was born to be a musician.' Ms. Liu, born in China, has studied music in both the East and the West. She has actively performed in the United States and Europe, with venues including Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, Hammerstein Hall, Gracie Mansion, Citi Field, and more recently, she was invited to perform at St. Smith Square in London. Ms. Liu has been invited to judge many music competitions in the United States and China. Additionally, she serves as a piano adjudicator in the New York State School of Music Association (NYSSMA). Ms. Liu has a strong passion for teaching, and her creative teaching approach is well-received by young musicians. She holds a Master's degree in classical piano performance from New York University and a Music Education Master’s degree from Teacher’s College, Columbia University.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/vivian-fang-liu-49673952/
Vivian Fang Liu is an award-winning pianist, singer, songwriter, Grammy Voting Member, and Grammy U Mentor. She has graced some of the world’s most prestigious stages, including Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, the Kennedy Center, the Grammy Museum, Mozarthaus, and the Wiener Musikverein in Vienna. Her music has been featured on prominent platforms such as PBS, ABC7, SinoVision, and SiriusXM.
In March 2022, the Recording Academy honored Ms. Liu as the featured artist for Women’s History Month. She was recognized by Steinway & Sons as a “Top Piano Teacher” for three consecutive years (2022–2024) and has received numerous accolades, including “Artist of the Year” and “Album of the Year” from the Funky Kids Awards in Australia, as well as four Global Music Awards. In 2024, she was invited to speak and lead workshops at Harvard University, and in 2025, she received the “Best Songwriter” award from the World Entertainment Awards.
Ms. Liu has performed the national anthem at professional MLB and WNBA games at Citi Field and the Barclays Center in New York. She has also made special guest appearances alongside renowned Asian celebrity singers during their North American tours. As a respected music educator and adjudicator, she regularly serves as a judge for local and international music competitions, mentoring students who have performed at Carnegie Hall, toured globally, and received invitations to perform at the Royal Albert Hall in London.
In academia, Ms. Liu has presented her research at prestigious international conferences, including the ISME World Music Education Conference in Baku, Azerbaijan, and the 12th Asia-Pacific Music Education Research Conference, where her paper on Asian American music education received widespread recognition. In 2023, her co-authored paper was published in Music Education Research, one of the field’s leading academic journals.
Ms. Liu holds master’s degrees in Music Education and Classical Piano Performance from Teachers College, Columbia University and New York University. Her distinguished career—spanning acclaimed performances, transformative educational initiatives, and impactful scholarly work—reflects her commitment to fostering cultural diversity and accessibility in the musical arts.
In music production, Ms. Liu also serves as a producer and project contractor, collaborating with music businesses around the world. Her clientele includes major industry players such as ByteDance Ltd., the parent company of TikTok, among others.
Sound Pathways

Sound Pathways is an inspiring and groundbreaking journey into the healing power of sound, creativity, and connection, exploring the profound link between Mind, Body, and Spirit. Hosted by Karen Olson, Ph.D., the show features captivating conversations with composers, musicians, sound healers, and inspirational thought leaders who share pioneering insights into how creativity and vibration shape our lives.
Each episode invites you to explore the magic of sound and energy as powerful tools for healing, self-discovery, and achieving your dreams. With special guests, uplifting stories, live call-ins for personalized sound healings, and unique teachings, Sound Pathways inspires you to tune in, align with your inner self, and elevate your life.