Liyao Yu, a conductor and mezzo-soprano from China, is currently pursuing her Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Choral Conducting at the Eastman School of Music. She earned her Master of Music degree at the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, where she fell in love with the city’s rich and welcoming choral community. Returning to Cincinnati for the 2025–26 season with the VAE feels like coming home, and she is excited to share her passion for artistry and collaboration as the ensemble begins a new chapter under the leadership of Dr. Joe Miller.