Ryan Chao
Biography
Experience
Core Studies Tutor
Graduate Assistant: Contemporary Classical Music Performance
Production & Administration Intern
Schedule
Upcoming Engagements
Description
The NEP celebrates the conclusion of its 48th season by joining forces with Chorus Pro Musica to perform John Adams’ Harmonium, a powerful exploration of love and death featuring the texts of John Donne and Emily Dickinson. NEP concertmaster and perennial favorite Danielle Maddon explores Roxanna Panufnik’s beautiful Violin Concerto, reflecting on peace in challenging times. The dramatic Mathis der Maler from Paul Hindemith questions the role of the artist in an earlier politically complicated era. The season closes with Eric Nathan’s Open again a turn of light, which sets a text by Boston-based poet Sawako Nakayasu. The concert also celebrates Nathan’s contributions to the NEP, at the conclusion of his tenure as Composer-in-Residence.
Ryan Chao
Percussionist
Dates
Description
The Boston cohort of New Music Mosaic presents an evening of premieres and existing works by composers from around the world.
Ryan Chao
Percussionist
Dates
Recent Highlights
Description
Upside Down Universe reimagines artistic performance through innovation and collaboration. Combining original music, evocative visuals, and cutting-edge technology, the production explores the interconnectedness of humanity and the environment while addressing the pressing issue of climate change. Imagined by Berklee Music Business/Management student Ana Suligoj, the program features eight student-composed pieces performed by an orchestra under the direction of Joshua Tan. Visual and video elements, developed collaboratively with students from Emerson College, MassArt, and Berklee, enhance the multidisciplinary nature of the experience.
With guidance from Berklee faculty member Maria Finkelmeier, Upside Down Universe transforms the Berklee Performance Center into a fully-immersive environment, incorporating innovative layouts, projection surfaces, and audience engagement tools such as LED wristbands. Sponsored by the Music Business/Management Department, the production offers both an inspiring artistic experience and a platform for reflecting on creativity’s role in shaping a more sustainable future.
Ryan Chao
Percussionist
Dates
Description
The New Music New England initiative celebrates new music written by New England composers. This year, the NEP celebrates beloved Yehudi Wyner’s 95th birthday with a performance of his dazzling cello concerto, Prologue and Narrative, featuring cellist Sam Ou. Displaying the depth of our musical community, the concert features works by Chaya Czernowin, Keeril Makan, and Marti Epstein, pillars of new music in Boston with a large international following. Additionally featured is 2024 Call for Scores Winner Bobby Ge, and the Boston premiere of Remember to Have Fun.
Ryan Chao
Percussionist