Henry Zheng
Faculty: Strings
Education:
BM Violin Performance, DePaul University
Chicago Suzuki Institute - Every Child Can, Violin Book 1
Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events - 2020 Individual Artists Project Grant Award Winner
Bio:
Chicago-based violinist Henry X. Zheng engages in a vibrant and fulfilling career as a chamber musician, recitalist, orchestral performer, and arts administrator. Performances have taken Mr. Zheng across the United States and to stages around the world, including venues in China, Italy, and Mexico. Recent awards include residency at the Avaloch Farm Music Institute, and an Individual Artists Project Grant from the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events. Stage highlights include appearances with the three-time Grammy Award nominated Spektral Quartet, the Kontras Quartet, and National Heritage Fellowship award winner Rahim Alhaj. Album and media credits include releases with Access Contemporary Music, Lakeshore Rush, Chicago Arts Orchestra, and Chicago Film Project. In his spare time, Henry enjoys playing video games, browsing the aisles at his local comic book store, and adding to his growing collection of weapons-grade hot sauces.
FAVORITE SONG OR MUSICIAN:
I’ve always really looked up to Trent Reznor from Nine Inch Nails. It’s amazing to me that the angsty goth kid who churned out Pretty Hate Machine and the Downward Spiral went on to score Pixar movies. It’s very inspiring to see that kind of career change, and also a reminder that sometimes the greatest artistic growth comes from finding your own path to wellness.
Contact Information
“Music education allows you to build a valuable lifelong connection with the arts. Music is not just entertainment, it can be a way to help us understand our own personal meaning. Because Merit is such an inclusive place, students and families of all backgrounds are really encouraged to make those connections.”