ViolinKenneth Liao

Violinist Kenneth Liao joined the San Diego Symphony in 2019 after spending two seasons as a Fellow with the New World Symphony. Born in Maryland, Mr. Liao received his Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Southern California, where he studied with Midori Goto, and subsequently completed a Master of Music degree at The Juilliard School under the tutelage of David Chan.

Prior to moving to San Diego, Mr. Liao served as acting associate concertmaster of the Des Moines Metro Opera, and also performed as concertmaster with the New World Symphony, Juilliard Orchestra, Pacific Music Festival and the Academy Festival Orchestra at the Music Academy of the West. He has been a substitute musician with the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra and the Britt Festival Orchestra, and appeared in ensemble and solo performances at venues including Carnegie Hall, Walt Disney Hall, the Kennedy Center, Suntory Hall and Sapporo Concert Hall Kitara, among others.

Mr. Liao was previously a recipient of a Nicoló Amati violin for several years from the Stradivari Society of Chicago, which led to numerous performance opportunities throughout the country. In addition to orchestral playing, Mr. Liao also loves playing chamber music and teaching. While a fellow at the New World Symphony, he had the opportunity to mentor local high school music classes, sectionals and side-by-side performances in addition to building a private studio in South Beach.

Outside of the violin, Kenneth Liao is obsessed with the bassoon and the art of reed-making. He is an avid opera lover, and enjoys hiking, practicing yoga and cooking.