Born in Xiamen, China, Xian Zhuo began cello lessons with his father at age six and made his cello debut at the age of seven. Subsequently, he received professional education at the University of Southern California, Yale University, the Royal Northern College of Music and Shanghai Conservatory on full scholarships. His prominent artist teachers include Ralph Kirshbaum, Nathaniel Rosen, Aldo Parisot, Liwei Qin and Mei-Juan Liu. He also performed at master classes for Yo-Yo Ma, Mstislav Rostropovich, Anner Bylsma, Natalia Gutman, Trüls Mørk and Jian Wang. His goal is to share the beautiful musical fabric that he creates with audiences throughout the world. 

Here are 5 questions with San Diego Symphony Cellist, Xian Zhuo: 

1. Tell us about your musical journey. How and when did you start the cello? Do you play any other instruments? 

I was born on a small island called Gulangyu in the south of China. It is also known as “Musical Island” because every family on this tiny one-square-mile island owns a piano. Since my father was a professional cellist, I grew up listening to him play the cello. The deep and warm tones of the cello captivated me, and I started learning the instrument when I was six, with my father as my teacher. 

I left my hometown when I was twelve to study at one of the best music schools in China, the Shanghai Conservatory of Music. During my time in Shanghai, I won numerous prizes and awards, including first prize in the China National Cello Competition. 

In 2004, I came to the United States to continue my studies at Yale University and the University of Southern California on a full scholarship. Since then, I have been giving recitals and performing concertos with orchestras all over the world. I won first prize in the Corpus Christi International Competition, and in 2012, I was the first prize winner of the prestigious 38th Dr. Luis Sigall International Cello Competition. 

2. How did you come to the San Diego Symphony? What was your initial reaction? How do you feel about being here now for 10 years? 

In 2008, while I was still in school, I had the opportunity to play with the San Diego Symphony as a substitute cellist. I was impressed by the level of the orchestra, so when there was an opening in 2013, I took and won the audition. After a decade with the orchestra, I feel a profound sense of fulfillment and pride. The opportunity to perform alongside such talented musicians and contribute to a respected ensemble is incredibly rewarding. 

3. What are your first impressions of the first month at the new Jacobs Music Center since the reopening? 

It feels great to be back ”home.” The new hall makes me fall in love with this orchestra even more and fuels my passion to make music with my colleagues. 

4. What is your favorite San Diego Symphony memory so far? 

All the concerts I have performed with the San Diego Symphony in the last ten years have been memorable. Each concert brings new challenges and joys, from tackling complex repertoire to connecting with the audience. There is also a strong sense of community within the orchestra, fostering lifelong friendships. 

5. What piece are you looking most forward to playing in the future? 

I’m excited to perform Mahler’s Third symphony with this orchestra at the end of the season.

 

Xian 8 yrs. old and his father in the New York Times

Xian 16 yrs. old and cello legend, Yo-Yo Ma

Xian playing in China in 2023