Zitian Lyu, a highly accomplished violist, began his musical journey with an unwavering dedication to mastering both orchestral and solo performance. His formal education started at the Music Middle School Affiliated to the Shanghai Conservatory of Music, where he graduated in 2018. Zitian then pursued advanced studies at The Juilliard School, earning his Bachelor of Music in Viola Performance in 2022, followed by a Master of Music, which he is set to complete in May 2024. Throughout his time at Juilliard, Zitian studied with distinguished viola instructors such as Misha Amory and Hsin-Yun Huang, who played a pivotal role in shaping his technical prowess and musical artistry.

Zitian’s passion for music extends beyond performance to teaching and mentoring young musicians. His musical development has been enriched through masterclasses with celebrated artists, including Cynthia Phelps, Richard Yongjae O’Neill, and Karen Dreyfus. His dedication to excellence is reflected in the numerous scholarships and awards he has received, including the Alice Madge Middleton Scholarship, the Nathan Gordon Viola Scholarship, and the Irving B. & Joan W. Harris Endowed Scholarship Fund.

As a performer, Zitian has graced some of the world’s most prestigious stages, including Carnegie Hall, Alice Tully Hall, and Paul Recital Hall. His extensive orchestral experience includes roles as principal and tutti violist in renowned ensembles such as the Music Academy of the West Orchestra and the Aspen Conducting Academy Orchestra. He has also performed with esteemed orchestras like the Shanghai Philharmonic Orchestra and the Ningbo Symphony Orchestra. His leadership and musicianship have been showcased through his roles as principal violist with the Juilliard Student Orchestra and the NYO-China Youth Orchestra.

Zitian’s summers have been marked by participation in elite music festivals. He has been a fellow at the Music Academy of the West and the Aspen Music Festival, as well as a performer at the VivaViola! Music Festival and the International String Festival at the Shanghai Conservatory of Music. These experiences have further honed his skills and allowed him to collaborate with world-class musicians.

With a rich background in performance, education, and collaboration, Zitian Lyu is poised to continue making significant contributions to the world of classical music. His dedication to his craft and passion for musical expression ensure that his journey as a violist will continue to inspire and resonate with audiences around the globe.