Ke Zhao

Began studying clarinet at age nine under Teacher Zhang Yongan. From 1992, studied under Professor Tao Chunxiao and was admitted to the Affiliated High School of the Central Conservatory of Music in 1995 with outstanding results. In 2001, enrolled in the Orchestral Department of the Central Conservatory of Music and joined the Central Conservatory of Music Philharmonic Orchestra as principal clarinetist the following year. In early 2006, joined the Chihuahua Philharmonic Orchestra in Mexico as principal clarinetist and successfully held a solo recital in August 2006, receiving unanimous praise. In 2009, after a rigorous selection process, participated in the Asian Youth Orchestra under the guidance of Steve Barta (principal clarinetist of the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra), touring various Asian cities. In the same year, officially joined the Hangzhou Philharmonic Orchestra as principal clarinetist, a position held to this day. In 2011, was sent on a government-sponsored program to study with the Berlin Philharmonic, receiving guidance from artists such as Wenzel Fuchs (principal clarinetist) and Manfred Preis (bass clarinetist). In recent years, has held multiple solo recitals and increasingly explored diverse styles of ensemble and chamber music works. In 2019, was invited to join the China Clarinet Union (CCU). On October 1, 2019, performed in the 1,000-member symphony celebration for the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. Consecutively received the Silver Orchid Award at the 10th and 11th Zhejiang Music and Dance Festivals.