Shih-Yu Hsieh is a Taiwanese cellist currently based in New York, devoted to the interpretation and performance of classical music. She earned her Master of Music in Cello Performance from the Mannes School of Music at The New School in 2024, where she studied under the renowned cellist Jay Campbell. Prior to that, she received her Bachelor of Arts in Music from Soochow University in Taiwan, studying with Jou-An Hou.

In addition to her rigorous academic training, Hsieh actively participates in a wide range of musical activities, including solo recitals, chamber music collaborations, orchestral performances, and appearances at music festivals. These experiences have not only refined her technical skills, but also deepened her understanding of musical language and emotional expression. She has frequently served as principal cellist, demonstrating outstanding leadership and musical direction.

In March 2025, she was invited to join the Asian Art Association Singapore (Traditional Western Instruments).

To me, music is a gentle yet resolute language. It needs no translation, yet it speaks the deepest emotions of the heart. I’ve always believed that the power of art lies not in virtuosity, but in connection—in that moment when someone hears a phrase and thinks, “I’ve felt that too.”

As a cellist, I find joy in uncovering the stories behind each piece of music and infusing them with my own perspective and emotions. Music has helped me understand myself better and allowed me to step into the worlds of others—whether they are audience members, composers, or fellow musicians.

I hope that my performances can serve as sincere conversations—giving listeners a reason to pause amidst the rush of daily life, and to feel, even briefly, the warmth and freedom that music can offer.

Throughout my musical journey, I have been fortunate to perform, collaborate, and receive recognition in a variety of settings:

Served as principal cellist with the Mannes Orchestra at Lincoln Center’s Alice Tully Hall in 2024;
Invited participant of Festival Napa Valley and PRISMA Music Festival in the same year;
Winner of First Prize in Chamber Music at the 2024 AVIMC International Music Competition, and Second Prize at the BTHVN Wien String Quartet Competition;
Presented two full-length solo recitals (2021 and 2024) and participated in a studio recording of works by Jennifer Higdon;
Former principal cellist of the Mannes Orchestra, with extensive leadership experience in student ensembles;