About

Chinese-born cellist Dr. Yongqi Lao has performed across China, Europe, and the United States as a concerto soloist, chamber musician, and orchestral player. She recently relocated to the Bay Area, where she serves as a Teaching Artist at the Oakland Symphony and part of the Lecturer Pool at San Jose State University School of Music.

Yongqi completed her Doctor of Musical Arts in Cello Performance at Arizona State University under the mentorship of Tom Landschoot. Her research focuses on the adaptation of Chinese Southwestern folk music for Western string instruments, and recent performance highlights include the world premiere of Chen Yi’s Three Bagatelles from China West (for cello and piano) in 2025.

Yongqi gave her first solo concerto performance with orchestra at the age of 18. She is the recipient of numerous national academic and music scholarships, has participated in several international music festivals, and recorded for Hollywood-produced motion pictures.

Music

As a cellist, I enjoy performing a wide range of repertoire, including solo cello works by Bach, as well as music from the 20th century and contemporary composers. I also love playing chamber music, whether in trios, quartets, quintets, or cello-piano sonatas, where I can connect with others through shared musical expression.

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