Cristian Diaz

Bachelor’s of Music in Violin Performance - Universidad Nacional de Colombia

Master’s of Music in Chamber Music - Kent State University

Master’s of Music in Viola Performance - University of Cincinnati

Artist’s Diploma in Viola Performance University of Cincinnati

Cristian Diaz is a chamber musician, orchestral performer, and educator from Colombia. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Violin Performance from the Music Conservatory of the Universidad Nacional de Colombia, a Master’s degree in Chamber Music from Kent State University, and both a Master’s degree and Artist Diploma in Viola Performance from the College-Conservatory of Music at the University of Cincinnati (CCM).

His mentors have included the acclaimed Miami String Quartet, Dr. Raul Garcia, Joanna Patterson Zakany, Jung-Min Amy Lee, Timothy Lees, and Dr. Catherine Lees. Mr. Diaz participated in the Mahler Chamber Orchestra Academy in Dortmund, Germany (2018), and was awarded both the inaugural Diversity Fellowship with CityMusic Cleveland Chamber Orchestra (2018–2019) and the CSO (Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra)/CCM Diversity Fellowship (2019–2021).

He has performed alongside members of the Miami String Quartet, Ariel Quartet, the Cleveland Orchestra, and the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, as well as with the Immaculata Chamber Music Series. In his free time, Cristian enjoys cooking, reading, and hiking.

My Studio Approach:

I love helping students grow through music in a fun, supportive, and encouraging environment. My teaching style focuses on positive feedback while still introducing music that challenges students and keeps them excited to learn. I work hard to create a safe space where students feel comfortable being themselves, making mistakes, and enjoying the process of music making. Along the way, I help students build organization, confidence, and motivation so they can reach their goals and develop a lasting love for music.