Wenhan Jiang – Section Principal Viola

Chinese violist Wenhan Jiang is currently Principal No. 2 Viola of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. He was formerly Principal Viola of the Ulster Orchestra and has appeared as Guest Principal with various orchestras in the UK and China. Wenhan graduated with distinction from the Royal Academy of Music and earned an International Artist Diploma from the Royal Northern College of Music. He has won multiple awards, including First Prize in the Theodore Holland Viola Competition and Third Prize in the Oskar Nedbal Viola Competition.

Dedicated to expanding the viola repertoire, Wenhan collaborates closely with contemporary composers, having premiered works by Harrison Birtwistle, Piers Hellawell, Rebecca Saunders, and others. He has performed at major festivals such as the Lucerne Festival, Berlioz Festival, Pacific Music Festival, and Santander Music Festival, as well as in renowned venues including Suntory Hall, Carnegie Hall, Royal Festival Hall and the Berliner Philharmonie.

He appeared as a soloist with various ensembles such as the Manson Ensemble and the Ulster Orchestra. His recording of the Sally Beamish Viola Concerto with the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra was broadcast across the UK.

Beyond the viola, Wenhan is passionate about historical performance and actively promotes the Violoncello da Spalla, a five-string instrument played on the shoulder. His instrument, crafted by Italian luthier Daniela Gaidano, adds a unique dimension to his artistic expression.

“I’m so excited to join Sinfonia Viva as the Section Principal viola! I’ve always enjoyed playing with Viva—every musician is so dedicated and engaged. I look forward to many concerts and chamber music performances, especially the first concert of the 2025/26 season in September where I’ll be performing a concerto alongside our leader, Sophie Rosa.”

Photo copyright Richard Ion