Kristen Kong (Piano)

Born in Macao, Kristen Kong Wai Kio is currently pursuing her Bachelor of Music degree at The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts under the tutelage of Professor Eleanor Wong, with the HKSAR Government Scholarship Fund – Scholarship for Outstanding Performance. Kristen’s musical journey began with guidance from Vincci Chan and Suyi Chan. She later enrolled in the Academy’s Junior Music Programme, studying with Chan Sze Yau. She is also the recipient of the MACA Music Scholarship and the Macao Foundation Award. 

In the summer of 2025, Kristen attended the Mannes Summer Piano Festival at The New School College for Performing Arts, where she was awarded a merit scholarship for her exceptional performance, further enhancing her musical skills. 

Her dedication and talent have been recognized through numerous accolades. She has achieved First Prizes in prestigious competitions, including the London Grand Prize Virtuoso International Music Competition, the American Virtuoso International Music Competition, the Bach International Music Competition, the Macao Young Musicians Competition, and the Lotus Cup Macao Youth Piano Competition. She was also awarded Second Prize at the Chopin Avenue International Piano Competition, the Royal International Piano Competition and the European Star Music Festival Hong Kong Young Artist Award. Her honors also include the Best Performance Award and the Best Ensemble Performance Prize at the Macao Young Musicians Competition, as well as the Gold Award and the Best Instrumentalist Special Award in the Best Classical Musicians Award Competition. 

In 2021, Kristen gave her first solo recital at the Macao Cultural Center, showcasing her talent and passion for music. The following year, she participated in a fundraising concert for Oxfam Macao, using her musical abilities to make a positive impact on the community. In 2024, she made an impressive debut in Hong Kong with a piano recital at the Steinway & Sons Gallery, further demonstrating her growth and commitment as a musician. 

Kristen has also actively engaged in various concerts, including the Opening Concert of the 5th Lotus Cup Macao Youth Piano Competition, the Macao Outstanding Piano Teachers and Students concert, and the MGM x SMC Winter Marathon Concert. Her performances also extend to significant events, such as the Erik Satie 100th Anniversary - Piano Marathon, where she contributed to breaking the Guinness World Record for “Most Musicians to Play the Same Piano in Relay”. Additionally, she has showcased her talent in the Music Chamber Series: Young Award-Winning Musicians at Galaxy Macau, the Harbour Music Harmonies at Harbour City, and various Ground Music shows.