Early Life and Education
Born in Taipei, Taiwan, Cynthia Yeh has built an international career as a percussionist. She received her Bachelor of Music in Performance from the University of British Columbia and a Master of Music in Performance from Temple University in Philadelphia, where she studied with the renowned percussionist Alan Abel.
Professional Career
Cynthia Yeh joined the Chicago Symphony Orchestra as principal percussionist in June 2007. Prior to this appointment, she served as principal percussionist of the San Diego Symphony Orchestra from 2004 to 2007.
As an active soloist, she has performed recitals and concerts across the United States, Canada, Mexico, Colombia, Taiwan, and Japan. She has also been featured with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, giving the world premiere of Jessie Montgomery’s Procession in May 2024 and the U.S. premiere of Avner Dorman’s Eternal Rhythm in October 2019.
Academic Leadership and Teaching
Yeh is currently on the faculty of DePaul University and the Aspen Music Festival and School. She has also taught at the Pacific Music Festival, the National Youth Orchestra–USA, and the Chosen Vale Percussion Seminar.
Awards and Recognitions
She has been invited to serve as a jury member for prestigious international competitions, including the ARD International Music Competition and the Orchestre Symphonique de Montréal (OSM) Competition.
A Look into Cynthia's Setup
Concert snare sticks
Made of Honduras rosewood from sustainable forestry, these rosewood drum sticks offer exceptional balance, durability, and sound quality.
Perfect for concert and professional musicians, Kolberg snare drum sticks combine the beauty and robustness of this noble wood with precise craftsmanship, fully manufactured in Germany.
Photo Credits: Venera Red