Rufus Choi
Artistic Director, Salit Conservatory of Music

Can you tell us a little bit about what you do?
As a concert pianist and educator, I truly appreciate and understand the vital role that music plays in our lives. My passion lies in sharing this experience with others, helping them to see the physicality in creating music, feel the experience of music, and hear the beauty of music through awareness and critical listening. I hope to inspire people to share this beautiful gift with those around them.

Music is truly all around us, moving us in profound ways. It’s a universal language of emotion, allowing us to express and create feelings that resonate in the heart. The impact of music is immediate and powerful, even though it can’t be seen.

How did you first become interested in music, performing, and music education?
I began my musical journey at the age of 6, and I can still hear the classical music that filled our home, creating a rich backdrop to my childhood. Among all the pieces that played, Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto stood out as my favorite. It stirred something deep within me, making me feel heroic and igniting a passion for the emotions that music could evoke.

As I continued to grow and hone my skills, I had the incredible opportunity to perform a piano concerto with a local orchestra. That moment was pivotal—it solidified my decision to dedicate my life to music. Each of these experiences has shaped who I am today and planted the seeds of my enduring love for this art form.

My journey into music education began at Juilliard, my alma mater. Surrounded by professors who were not only esteemed musicians but also active performers, I felt an immediate connection to both teaching and performing. It seemed only natural to embrace both paths.
When one of my professors went on concert tours, I seized the opportunity and asked if I could try teaching her students in her absence. To my delight, my fellow students kept coming back for more coaching sessions. That experience opened my eyes to how much I truly enjoyed teaching, igniting a passion that would become a cornerstone of my musical journey.

How can art enrich a community, and what are some ways people can engage with art in Burbank?
Life without music feels empty and colorless. It strips away our understanding of how beauty is crafted, limits our ability to express and communicate feelings, and diminishes our awareness of the richness around us. Music adds depth to our hearts and lives.

In a time when culture and the arts are more important than ever, creating music is vital for restoring harmony in our communities. Sharing my passion for music has always been my life’s purpose, and I long for everyone to experience it as I do. My hope is that this shared appreciation can inspire others to spread that beauty within their own circles, creating a ripple effect of joy and connection.

I have a favorite saying: “When you don’t know, you don’t know.” That’s why I encourage everyone to open their minds by exploring music and art. Take a class, attend a concert, or visit a local exhibition—just give it a try! Step out of your routine and embrace the vibrant offerings around you.

We live in Burbank, a thriving city brimming with opportunities for creativity and connection. There’s so much to discover if you’re willing to dive in! You never know what new passions might spark.

If you could share with our community one thing about art, what would it be?
Music is a powerful force that connects the mind, body, and spirit. The mind imagines, the body brings those ideas to life, and the heart loves deeply.

One of my favorite quotes encapsulates this beautifully: Plato said, “Music is a moral law. It gives soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and charm and gaiety to life and to everything.” These words remind us of the profound impact music has on our lives, lifting our spirits and enriching our experiences.

To find out more about Rufus and his work, visit rufuschoi.com or salitmusicla.com.