Kaiyan Xiao is a classically trained violist and violinist.

Having started the violin at a young age and added viola at 16, Kaiyan deeply values a strong technical foundation, believing that solid basics are essential for lasting musical growth.

Kaiyan holds a Bachelor of Music degree from the China Conservatory of Music, where they also worked as a teaching assistant and translator for string masterclasses and orchestra rehearsals.

She is currently pursuing a Master’s degree at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, continuing classical viola study with Dimitri Murrath. Throughout this academic journey, Kaiyan has developed not only performance skills but also a deep understanding of string pedagogy and teaching artistry, equipping them to effectively engage with students of different ages and levels.

Kaiyan is an active performer with diverse experience across commercial and community events. In addition to live performance, they also work as a studio musician, contributing to film, musical, and mobile game soundtrack recordings, showcasing their versatility through a variety of musical platforms.

As a teacher, Kaiyan is inclined to tailor each lesson to suit students’ levels and learning styles. They work hard to ensure students leave a lesson with not only improved techniques and repertoires but also a sense of joy and fulfillment from learning and growing through music.

Kaiyan is fluent in English and Mandarin.