Introducing Treya

T: Yes, not to fortify the stereotype, but I can relate to that, as I play piano and spent some time with the violin and viola. When I was about 3 my parents noticed that I spent a lot of time playing the piano they had in the basement and signed me up for lessons. When I was a little older I started playing the violin and was involved with the Childrens Orchestra Society on weekends. In high school I picked up the guitar and we’ve been pretty inseparable ever since. I feel incredibly fortunate to have music in my life, it’s what I love and it helps me make sense of everything that comes my way. Don’t know I found the path, I’ve just always been on it.

H: So fortunate, indeed. Who have been your inspirations in music and in life?

T: I was a bit sheltered from popular culture when I was younger, my parents were a little strict in that regard. So I grew up listening to classical music and Frank Sinatra. These days I’m enchanted by Andrew Bird and Nina Simone. There is so much music out there and I try to experience as much as possible, anything that resonates I can draw from.

In life I’m just inspired by the people I meet. Between working in a New York hotel for a few years and making the time to travel I’ve come across quite a few characters. I’m a fan of those who are compassionate towards others and the environment we live in. You can find good people everywhere and I think that in itself is inspiring.

H: I completely appreciate how optimistic and hopeful you are. That in itself is so inspiring. So, I understand you hope to visit Taiwan in the near future. Have you ever been? What are you looking forward to?

T: The last time I was in Taiwan was over 10 years ago, I was around 12 years old and my memory of it is a bit rusty. I’m really most excited to check out the restaurants, the food at the night markets, and if I’m lucky maybe even a home cooked meal. I love food and how it brings people together. I would love to explore and experience the Taiwanese cuisine with the locals. I’m also looking forward to seeing the mountains and the coast.

H: What has your Taiwanese American identity meant to you?

T: Growing up I lacked a strong sense of cultural identity and felt like an outsider to both the American and Asian circles. I spent the last few years trying to grasp what it means to be American. The US definitely has room for improvement when it comes to racial equality but I find it beautiful that this country is constructed by such a diverse combination of cultures.

Honestly I don’t know much about Taiwan and that is the next step. I’m at the point where looking at my heritage is important in moving forward and growing as a person. The Taiwanese Americans I have recently been reaching out to have been very warm and welcoming. For this I am grateful and excited to continue going down this path.

H: Well, I can reassure you that there are many in the community who will support you through this journey. And speaking on behalf of TaiwaneseAmerican.org, we’re so pleased to meet you and see where you go from here. No doubt, some amazing places with a voice like yours.

T: Ah thank you, that’s very kind!