Dr. Dan Zhang, a Professor of Viola at The Catholic University of America and Washington Adventist University, continues to elevate classical music to new heights through her performances and teaching roles. Originally from China, she holds advanced degrees from prestigious institutions, including the Central Conservatory of Music in Beijing, Yale University, Shenandoah University, and The Catholic University of America. Her academic journey reflects a deep commitment to merging artistic traditions from across the world.
Her performances have captivated audiences globally at renowned venues such as Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, the Gewandhaus in Leipzig, Teatro Centro Cultura Kirchner in Buenos Aires, and Kioi Hall in Tokyo. In 2024, she performed the Stamitz Viola Concerto with the Newark Symphony in Delaware, adding to her busy schedule of solo recitals across Maryland, Washington, DC, and a five-city tour of China in 2023. Her involvement in the 100th anniversary of the Turkish Republic in Istanbul and collaboration with The Catholic University of America Chamber Orchestra exemplify her role in bringing music to international audiences.
As an educator, Dr. Zhang has taught masterclasses in numerous countries, sharing her expertise with students and fellow musicians alike. Her faculty roles at the Music & More SummerFest in Bosnia & Herzegovina and the Point CounterPoint Chamber Music Festival in Vermont reflect her passion for developing future generations of musicians. Invitations to teach in Mexico, Turkey, Poland, Colombia, and China further illustrate her global reach and commitment to artistic collaboration.
Dr. Zhang Performing the theme song for Mission Impossible
Dr. Zhang co-directs the Washington Adventist University Music Festival, where she collaborates with world-class artists to guide students from the U.S. and China. The festival’s final concert at the Chinese Embassy in Washington, DC, in August 2024, symbolized a crucial time of international artistic unity during the 45th anniversary of U.S.-China diplomatic relations.
In addition to her work as a professor, Dr. Zhang directs “The Sound of Strings, Piano, and Voice International Music Festival,” which she has led since 2015. This festival continues to influence classical music education globally, bringing together renowned artists and aspiring musicians each year. Dr. Zhang is also the co-founder and producer of the “American Virtuoso International Music Competition,” which supports young musicians in their artistic pursuits.
Through her various roles, Dr. Zhang has made a lasting impact on students and the broader music community. Her leadership as chair of the American String Teachers Association in Maryland and Washington strengthens connections between musicians from different cultures, fostering a deeper understanding through music. Her tireless work amplifies the profound ability of music to bring people together, making her a prominent figure in the world of classical music education.
