Anna Zhirui Zhao

Internationally acclaimed classical pianist and distinguished educator, Dr. Zhirui (Anna) Zhou, has established herself as a prominent figure in the classical music community. She is a prize winner in numerous prestigious competitions, including the MTNA National Competition, the International Piano Competition in Pineto (Italy), the Memphis International Piano Festival & Competition, the Southeast Young Artist Piano Competition, and the Young Artist Concerto Competition in Georgia.

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Dr. Zhou is a highly sought-after educator and adjudicator based in the DMV area. She frequently serves on the jury for international competitions, including the World Stage Tour and the Glinka International Piano Competition. On the local and regional level, she is a regular judge for the Northern District Audition, Sonata Festival, Fall Festival, and various judged recitals. Her dedication to pedagogy is reflected in the success of her studio; her students are frequent top-prize winners in both local and international piano competitions. Currently, she serves as the Co-Director of the Pacific Stars International Piano Competition (Washington DC Region).

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Dr. Zhou holds a Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) degree in Piano Performance from the University of Georgia and earned her bachelor’s degree from the prestigious Shanghai Conservatory of Music. Her artistic development has been guided by renowned mentors, including Prof. Yuan Ling (Central Conservatory of Music), Prof. Chen Jiang and Franz Mo (Shanghai Conservatory of Music), Prof. Alexander Kobrin (Schwob School of Music), and Dr. David Fung (University of Georgia).