Aiwen Zhang is an innovative and dynamic artist committed to exploring diverse musical repertoire and multimedia art forms that captivate audiences worldwide. A classically trained saxophonist, Aiwen is in high demand as a performer and educator, with engagements spanning the United States, China, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and Thailand. As the tenor saxophonist of Project Fusion, Aiwen brings a distinctive voice to the ensemble, contributing to its reputation for versatility and excellence. She is a Henri Selmer Paris endorsing artist and is represented by Allegro Music Consultants.
Aiwen made history as the first person of Chinese descent and the first female artist to secure a top prize at the 5th Jean-Marie Londeix International Saxophone Competition, one of the most prestigious saxophone competitions in the world. Her accolades also include winning concerto competitions at the University of Michigan, Bowling Green State University, and with the Lima Symphony. Additionally, she earned first-place honors in esteemed solo competitions such as the Musicians Club of Women Awards Competition, the Prix de Conservatoire National Supérieur de Musique et de Danse de Paris, and the Vandoren Emerging Artist Competition.
A highly sought-after performer and educator, Aiwen has received invitations to give recitals and lead master classes from musical institutions worldwide. Such performance venues include the Lincoln Center (NYC), Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts (Washington D.C.), Beijing National Center for the Performing Arts (China), Université Européenne de Saxophone (France), and Prince Mahidol Hall (Thailand). Aiwen has led master classes at a variety of educational institutions including The Shanghai Conservatory of Music, Central Conservatory of Music (China), and Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music (Singapore).
Aiwen holds degrees from the University of Michigan, Paris Conservatory, and the Eastman School of Music. Her past instructors include Timothy McAllister, Claude Delangle, Chien-Kwan Lin, Vincent David, and John Sampen.
Currently, Aiwen serves on the faculty of Temple University’s Preparatory Program and manages her social media platform which has over 4 millions monthly views. She is also the co-founder of Altissimo Arts, a nonprofit chamber music organization that presents concerts blending fine arts in diverse spaces.