Biography

Violist Christina Ebersohl-Van Scyoc is widely recognized for performances that combine fearless imagination and warm maturity. Joël Belgique, principal violist of the Oregon Symphony, has praised Christina as a new generation of musician: “her talent alone is not enough…. she’s inspiring.”

Christina made her solo debut after her Honorable Discharge from the US Army, where she served as an Arabic Linguist. Since her return to the classical world, she has embarked on a multifaceted career, seamlessly transitioning between solo performances, charismatic advocacy, and cultural diplomacy. Her expressive playing and profound understanding of the viola repertoire has garnered critical acclaim, establishing her as a sought-after artist on both national and international stages. Christina’s ability to infuse emotion and depth into her performances has resonated with audiences, creating a lasting impact on the world of classical music.

In addition to her solo career, Christina is a passionate advocate, mentoring students and educating institutions on music education for those with disabilities. Inspired by her own experiences as a blind musician, she has spoken at the New Music Gathering, the Music Library Association, the College Music Society National Conference, and the 14th International Vision Conference—to name a few—on accessibility and opening doors for musicians with disabilities.

Christina’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of musicians is as notable as her performance career. She has dedicated time to teaching masterclasses and workshops as a Licensed Body Mapping Educator, sharing her expertise and passion with aspiring violists. Working directly with students, she guides musicians towards developing healthy movement practices, preventing injuries, and promoting long, sustainable careers.

Throughout her career, Christina has received numerous awards for her contributions to the world of classical music, solidifying her place as a leading concert violist, scholar, and advocate, including the Gilman International Study Scholarship, the National Federation of Music Clubs Scholarship, the National Federation of the Blind Pearson Scholarship, and in 2022, she was named a Pat Tillman Scholar for her continuing service to the music community. Beyond the stage, she remains deeply involved in philanthropic endeavors, supporting initiatives that aim to make classical music accessible to diverse audiences.

Christina’s dedication and exceptional skill led her to study under the mentorship of esteemed violists Joel Belgique, Kenji Bunch, and Basil Vendryes. Currently, she is completing her Doctorate in Viola Performance and Literature as an Illinois Distinguished Fellow at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign with Liz Freivogel of the Jupiter Quartet and is the Editor for the Journal of the American Viola Society. She continues to captivate audiences with her soul-stirring performances while contributing to the cultural tapestry of classical music.