University of Washington School of Music, Bachelor of Music (Cello)

Cory Chen is a dedicated cellist and music educator currently pursuing dual Bachelor of Arts degrees in Music (Cello Performance) and Biochemistry at the University of Washington–Seattle, where she serves as principal cellist of the UW Symphony Orchestra. She began her musical journey at age five with piano and discovered the cello at age eight through her elementary school orchestra. Since then, music has been a central part of her life, leading to performances at prestigious venues such as Carnegie Hall in New York, Das MuTH and Esterházy Palace in Austria, and the Rudolfinum in Prague as a member and alumni of the Los Angeles Youth Orchestra.

Cory is passionate about teaching and finds joy in helping young students discover the rewards of learning music. She has led sectionals for multiple university orchestras, tutored beginner students, and actively engages in community outreach. Her teaching approach is warm, student-centered, and focused on building a strong technical foundation while encouraging creativity and self-expression.

Beyond orchestral playing, Cory performs regularly as a soloist and chamber musician. She is the founder of a campus-based string quartet and has performed in public pop-up concerts across the university. Her training includes masterclasses with renowned cellists such as Camden Shaw (Dover Quartet), Zlatomir Fung (Tchaikovsky Competition Gold Medalist), and Sara Sant’Ambrogio (Eroica Trio), and she currently studies under Sarah Rommel. Cory has also earned ASTACAP Level 9 with Distinction through the American String Teachers Association, and her former mentor, Stephen Green, encouraged her to pursue music professionally after observing her rapid progress and deep passion.

Cory is excited to join the teaching community at Dolce Arts Studio and looks forward to sharing her experience and love of music with the next generation of young cellists.