Hello today I am continuing my series violin from A-Z. We are now on X for Xiang Gao. Born in the people’s republic of China, Xiang Gao is one of the most successful violinists of his generation and was cited by the New York Times as a rare and soulful virtuoso.
He has performed for many of the world’s leaders including the former presidents of the US and China. He has gained worldwide acclaim for his technique and virtuosity. In 1994 he became the first Chinese violinist to join Columbia records and began his professional recording career.
During his long career he has performed with the Detroit symphony orchestra the Czech Philharmonic orchestra the National Orchestra of Sweden the Philharmonic orchestra of Russia the Estonia national symphony the Mexico state symphony the Kansas Symphony the Memphis symphony and many others he has also given recitals and master-classes throughout North America, Asia, Europe and South America.
Xiang Gao composes, arranges and performs in the styles of jazz, bluegrass and Asian folk. On August 8, 2007 he was featured live as soloist for CCTV’s concert in Macau to celebrate the one year countdown to the 2008 Olympics opening ceremony. This event was viewed by more than one billion viewers worldwide.
He is also a dedicated chamber music performer and promoter; he has collaborated with some of the world’s leading chamber musicians. Gao lives in Newark, Delaware and is the youngest Associate Professor of music at the University of Delaware’s department of music.
His hobbies include cooking Chinese cuisine watching college football and skiing. He is married and has one daughter born in May of 2005.