Chao Tian

About the Artist

Chao Tian is a Chinese dulcimer musician and improviser. Her dexterity has led to her breaking down barriers and working across creative genres. She delves into innovative techniques and sounds of the Chinese dulcimer, crafting new sonic landscapes through improvisation. Chao began studying the Chinese dulcimer at age five and later attended the Middle School Affiliated with the China Conservatory of Music. She earned her BA in music performance and MA in musicology from the same institution and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Ethnomusicology at Boston University, focusing on musical improvisation, Chinese music philosophy, musical linguistics, intercultural collaboration and cultural diplomacy. Chao was a former member of China’s renowned 12 Girls Band, has performed in over 30 countries and regions worldwide. Her career gained recognition in the United States in 2015 when she was selected for the prestigious Artist in Residence program at the Strathmore Music Center. She is also an alumna of Art Omi and a NextLOOK artist at the University of Maryland. With the support of the Maryland State Arts Council’s Folklife Apprenticeship program, she studies the American hammered dulcimer under Karen Ashbrook. Chao’s research project Unheard Sounds explores the transformation of artistic language in intercultural collaborations among immigrant artists. Her notable musical endeavors include From China to Appalachia with two-time GRAMMY winners Cathy Fink and Marcy Marxer, and Dong Xi with world percussionist Tom Teasley. She is the leader of the Always Folk Ensemble and a member of the award-winning global jazz-fusion group Project Locrea.