ArcoStrum
“An electrifying and deeply memorable performance… ArcoStrum demonstrated extraordinary versatility, technical brilliance and musical chemistry.” – Cape Gazette, Lewes, DE
About
Praised as “a first-rate ensemble among the new generation of performing artists,” ArcoStrum is a trailblazing violin-guitar duo hailed for their creative concert design, on-stage charisma, and innovative programming. A Winner and Audience Prize recipient at the 2023 Concert Artists Guild Victor Elmaleh Competition—the first violin-guitar duo in CAG’s 70+ year history to achieve this—ArcoStrum is comprised of violinist Strauss Shi, a three-time international competition winner, and guitarist TY Zhang, the first and only Chinese classical guitarist to win the prestigious Guitar Foundation of America International Concert Artist Competition (GFA-ICAC).
The duo has brought its dazzling virtuosity and magnetic stage presence to sold-out audiences across China, Mexico, and the United States. Recent and upcoming highlights include debuts at New York City’s Merkin Hall, the Krannert Center, University of Nevada–Las Vegas, Austin Chamber Music Festival (with Empire Wild), Caramoor, Kravis Center, the Guitar Foundation of America, and more.
ArcoStrum believes in the power of music to spark imagination and is committed to delivering educational programs that inspire wonder, ignite passion, and empower the next generation. Their 2025 “RockoStrum” Summer Residency at the Fried Music School in Alhambra, CA brought students together to explore non-classical genres, arrange music collaboratively, and step outside their comfort zones.
On stage, they are ArcoStrum. Offstage, they are lifelong friends whose musical bond began as classmates at The Juilliard School and has evolved into a brotherhood rooted in curiosity, creativity, and a love for sharing music.