Cello Fellow

Michael Zyzak

Beginning his studies at the age of 4, cellist Michael Zyzak made his solo debut at the age of 9 with the Louisville Orchestra. In 2009, Michael was unanimously awarded the first prize winner of the David Popper International Cello Competition as well as first prize at the Louisville Young Artist, Fox Valley Young Artist, Rising Star Young Artist Southeast Missouri, and Dayton Philharmonic Concerto Competitions. He was also awarded second prize at the 2016 Eisemann International Young Artists Competition and third prize at the 2016 Lynn Harrell Concerto Competition. At the age of 18, Michael won a position as substitute cellist for the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.
Michael has also appeared as a soloist with the Blue Ash Orchestra, Southeast Missouri Orchestra, and Fox Valley Orchestra. Over the years, he’s had the privilege of playing for distinguished cellists such as Janos Starker, Lynn Harrell, and Clive Greensmith. In addition, he has been invited to perform at the Taos School of Music and the Sarasota Music Festival where he worked with artists such as Robert McDonald and members of the Brentano String Quartet, the Borromeo String Quartet and the Miró Quartet.
Michael received his Bachelors degree at Chicago College of Performing Arts under Richard Hirschl.