Chao-Teng Chang
Chao-Teng Chang: The musical visionary
His music teacher at secondary school lays the foundation. He not only teaches the children the technique on the harmonica, but also lives the music and conveys it accordingly. A groundbreaking experience for Chao-Teng Chang. He is a member of a large harmonica orchestra at the school. As a result, he learns to play different types of the instrument – from chord and bass to chromatic and tremolo harmonicas.
“The sound of the harmonica touches me deeply. Maybe it’s because the reeds are so close to the head that the vibrations go straight to the body and mind. It’s an intimate sound – one that touches the soul and creates a strong emotional connection.”
Studying music as a whole
At university, Chao-Teng studies the comprehensive spectrum within music. His engagement with theory, history, sociology and, of course, the harmonica opens up paths and perspectives beyond his own playing. He understands music as a medium between cultures and experiences it as a social togetherness. He also sees it as having a holistic significance in dealing with himself and with society as a whole.
When he joined the “Sirius Ensemble” in 2012, he met like-minded people. The ensemble is performing all over the world, its music is award-winning. A concert with the “Rainbow Choir” from Shanghai is particularly memorable for Chao-Teng Chang. He was moved by the expressiveness and emotional warmth of the human voice. An experience that he now endeavours to transfer to his instrument.
Teacher and instrument maker
He now passes on all of these important experiences to his students. Chao-Teng Chang not only wants to teach them technical skills, but also use music to strengthen young people’s self-esteem and help them to find their own voice. “Above all, I hope that my students find their passion, purpose and identity through music – not just by learning music, but by truly living it.”
The harmonica as a human voice
Chao-Teng also works on the perfect sound as an instrument maker at the manufacturer “Laelaps“: everything from a soft whisper to a powerful resonance should be possible. And he always emphasises that the harmonica should be an extension of the human voice of the respective musician.
Chao-Teng Chang is a musical visionary. His high standards motivate him anew every day.