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Yuek Sze Zoe Chao

Yuek Sze "Zoe" Chao
Violin/Viola, Suzuki Violin/Viola

Zoe was born in China and grew up in Hong Kong. She did her BA degree at Hong Kong Metropolitan University, her Performance Diploma in both violin and viola at Trinity College London. and her M Mus in violin/viola at Longy School of Music/Bard College. She is certified as a Suzuki Instructor by the Suzuki Association of the Americas.

Zoe held several teaching positions during her time in Hong Kong; in the US she teaches at the Dedham School of Music, Dedham Public Schools, Maestro Musicians in Lexington, and is Upper Strings Teaching Artist at Boston Music Project, teaching private lessons, ensembles and orchestra sectionals.

As a performer, she was violinist in the Lark String Quartet in Hong Kong. In the US she plays in a several regional orchestras, and was violist in the album BIKEncerto by Reynaliz Herrera, which won a Golden Music Award for Best Contemporary Classical.

Meet Zoe

  1. How/what age did you start your instrument?
    I started playing the violin when I was 6. and began learning the viola at 21. Both instruments have been with me ever since.
  2. Did you come from a musical family?
    While my family isn't professionally involved in music, my father can play the accordion, harmonica, and erhu as a hobby.
  3. Best or funniest (or even worst!) musical memory from childhood?
    Initially, my parents gave me the choice between the violin and the cello, and I opted for the violin as I thought smaller instruments would be easier to play. Surprisingly, they didn't offer the option of the viola! It wasn't until I reached adulthood that I had the chance to explore this beautiful alto voice instrument (and lots of viola jokes haha).
  4. A highlight or two from your performing career:
    Participated in the recording of the award-winning album "BIKEncerto: a concert for solo bicycle and orchestra" by Reynaliz Herrera, released in June 2023. Participated in the 2023 Early Music America (EMA) Summit with the Harvard Baroque Chamber Orchestra and performed alongside the McGill University Baroque Orchestra.
  5. What do you love about teaching?
    What I love about teaching is the opportunity to meet different people, the joy of progressing towards goals, and the meaningful discoveries found in the pursuit of those objectives. Teaching allows me to reflect on myself as well. I am continually learning from students, parents, and the school environment, fostering a cycle of growth and understanding.
  6. What would you like your students to know about you?
    Let's embark on this musical journey together, working towards our goals, and make music a source of joy, fulfillment, and opportunities for you at every stage of your lives.
  7. Can you share a non-musical fun fact about you?
    I have my little cat, who is almost two years old, and her name is Steak.