Mengyao Zhao

Dr. Mengyao Zhao graduated from Michigan State University and holds two Doctor of Musical Arts degrees in both Piano Performance and Collaborative Piano. As a featured soloist and an accomplished chamber musician, Dr. Zhao has been invited to a plethora of performances and master classes internationally. Her performances had been showcased in esteemed venues including Carnegie Hall in New York, Royal Albert Hall in London, Harris Concert Hall in Aspen, Mixon Hall and Kulas Hall in Cleveland, and He Luting Concert Hall in Shanghai. Most recently, Dr. Zhao was invited as a collaborative pianist at the renowned Aspen Music Festival and Collaborative Piano Institute at LSU. Dr. Zhao has won numerous piano competitions including the Honors Concerto Competition at Michigan State University, Golden Classical Music Awards International Competition, German Irmler International Piano Competition, and Asia International Piano Art Competition. 

Dr. Zhao now serves as a piano instructor at Alma College and a faculty member of the Community Music School and vocal collaborative pianist at Michigan State University. Beyond her role as a pianist and educator, Dr. Zhao is a founder of the Cleveland International Music Festival and Piano and Vocal Competition at Cleveland Institute of Music. During the COVID pandemic, she played a pivotal role in organizing and promoting cross-cultural virtual conversations with the Shanghai Conservatory of Music. Over the years, through her multifaceted contributions, Dr. Zhao has established her commitment to fostering connections through piano and her dedication to teaching the next generation of aspiring musicians. 

Educational Background:  

• B.M. Piano Performance, Shanghai Conservatory of Music 
• M.M. Piano Performance, Cleveland Institute of Music 
• Doctor of Musical Arts Collaborative Piano, Michigan State University 
• Doctor of Musical Arts Piano Performance, Michigan State University