2023-2024 Marvin Hamlisch International Music Awards
special citations to youth composers
Jiechen Huang, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
Category: Contemporary Pop
Jiechen Huang, who is a producer, arranger and composer, was born in 2007 in Nantong, Jiangsu, China. Currently, he is a high school student with a deep passion for music. He plans to pursue his undergraduate studies in the UK at 2025, focusing on music production, particularly in the field of popular music.
Music has always been a significant part of Jiechen’s life, and he has shown talent in singing and instrumental music from a young age. However, it was during his middle school years that I discovered my true passion for music production. With an insatiable thirst for knowledge and a relentless drive to succeed, Jiechen embarked on a journey of self-teaching and mentorship under the guidance of seasoned industry professionals. Through massive hours in his spare time of dedication and perseverance, he honed his compositional skills and delved deep into the intricate world of music production.
Jiechen’s efforts have not gone unnoticed, as his works have earned recognition in various prestigious competitions.His achievements include accolades from the International Electronic Music Competition, AIMA International Composition Award and the 9th World Championship in Composition,edition: Salzburg and Vienna.These accomplishments are a testament to his dedication and passion for music.
As a music producer, Jiechen has had the opportunity to collaborate with world-renowned symphony orchestras, string ensembles, and talented musicians. Notable groups and musicians he has worked with include the "Budapest Scoring Orchestra," "International Master Philharmonic Orchestra," "Starliner Strings", conductor "Peter Illényi", chief mastering engineer "Cheon Hoon" of Sonic Korea and grammy award-winning mastering engineer "Alex Psaroudakis". These experiences have broadened his artistic horizons and deepened his understanding of music.
MAX LIM, WEST CHESTER, PENNSYLVANIA, UNITED STATES
CATEGORY: JAZZ COMPOSITION
Maxwell Lim, a composer, multi-instrumentalist, and producer from West Chester, Pennsylvania, has been immersed in music from a young age. Studying classical and jazz piano at the Mattock School of Music, he developed a strong interest in harmony and arrangement. His passion for composition flourished in high school, where he wrote for Unionville High School’s big band and other jazz ensembles, blending contemporary influences with traditional arrangements.
In addition to composing, Max is an aspiring producer, collaborating with rappers nationwide. He often infuses his jazz compositions with influences from electronic music and hip-hop, incorporating analog synths and programmed drums to create genre-fusing works. Recently, Max began teaching piano lessons at the Mattock School of Music as part of their mentorship program. Now a high school senior, he plans to pursue higher education in both biological sciences and jazz composition.