Chinese conductor Chunyi Zhao has built her musical path across three countries, from early violin studies in China to conducting training in Singapore and Germany. Currently pursuing a Master's degree in conducting at the Hochschule für Musik Hanns Eisler Berlin under Markus Stenz, Chunyi is developing a career that encompasses both symphonic and operatic repertoire.

Born in Shenyang, Chunyi began studying violin at a young age and received her musical education at the Central Conservatory of Music in Beijing. In 2013, a full scholarship brought her to the Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music at the National University of Singapore, where a growing fascination with the role of the conductor gradually led to a new artistic direction. Further studies in Berlin with Christian Ehwald and Markus Stenz have since shaped her development on the podium.

Recognition has come through Third Prize at the International Jeunesses Musicales Conducting Competition in Bucharest, as well as scholarships from the Deutschlandstipendium and Forum Dirigieren. Alongside her studies, Chunyi has gained experience with a wide range of orchestral and operatic projects, conducting the Bremer Philharmoniker, the Xi'an Symphony Orchestra, and orchestras at Theater für Niedersachsen.

Collaborations with conductors including George Benjamin, Kent Nagano, and Markus Stenz have provided valuable insights into different approaches to repertoire and leadership. Recent projects have included engagements with the Junge Deutsche Philharmonie, the Hamburg State Opera's tour of China, and a production of Wagner's Siegfried in Hangzhou.

Drawing on musical experiences across Asia and Europe, Chunyi brings an international perspective to her work and continues to refine a musical voice shaped by curiosity, versatility, and a deep commitment to the collaborative nature of music making.