Jacob Cai

Twelve-year-old Jacob Cai was born in Calgary. Growing up in a family with a rich musical heritage, Jacob was exposed to music at a young age. His father,  a record producer, and his grandmother, a Chinese Opera singer, instilled a passion for music within him that only grew stronger over time.

His creative and curious mind has led him to explore widely varied interests such as composing, drawing and origami. Jacob also loves reptiles! He has a bearded dragon, a chameleon and a box turtle.

Studying under piano teacher Marilyn Engle, Jacob successfully participated in national and international piano competitions. In June 2023, Jacob performed with The Calgary Civic Symphony. He was also the first-place winner in both the International Youth Elevato Piano Competition and Concerto Competition. Year 2021, Jacob won the 1st Prize in the Age 9 Category at the Canadian Music Competition. He also won the 1st Prize and Young Artist Award at WPTA Singapore 2021 as well as the 1st Prize and Grand Prix in the Crown of Stars (Category C 10-12 years old) at the Music and Stars Awards.  In 2020, he won the 1st and Overall Prize in the Steinway Piano Competition. He was also selected to perform at the Coimbra World Piano Meeting.