Chang-Ping Gu, Violinist and Violist
Originally from Taiwan, Chang-Ping Gu is currently an Associate Instructor of violin and viola at the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music. Renowned for his versatility and dedication, Gu has achieved recognition in multiple competitions, including first prize in the 2004 National Competition of String Quartet in Taiwan and third prize in the 2005 National Competition of Piano Quintet. He has performed with several professional orchestras, including the Owensboro Symphony Orchestra, Queensboro Symphony Orchestra, and Taipei Philharmonic Orchestra.
An active chamber musician, Gu has participated in prestigious festivals such as the Atlantic Music Festival and the Duo526 Sonata Seminar. His performance highlights include collaborations with clarinetist Gábor Varga in 2023 and several chamber concerts featuring works by Brahms, Mendelssohn, and Ravel. In addition to his performance career, Gu is deeply passionate about pedagogy and integrating music theory into violin and viola teaching. He also maintains an active schedule as a performer and educator, inspiring students with his artistry and expertise.
Gu holds a Bachelor of Music in violin performance from Soochow University, a Master of Music from Taipei National University of the Arts, a Master of Jazz Music in piano performance from Queens College, and a Performance Diploma in violin performance from the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music. He is currently pursuing a Doctor of Music in violin performance with a minor in music theory and viola, under the guidance of Mark Kaplan, Atar Arad, and Mimi Zweig, at the Jacobs School of Music.
Watch Chang-Ping Gu perform Sonata for Viola and Piano (2001) by Libby Larsen on the viola for the 2025 Spring Music Competition as part of the Charleston International Music Competition.