Since joining the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra in 2023 as a section cello player, Shinae Ra has quickly advanced to the role of Assistant Principal Cello.
A graduate of Indiana University with a Bachelor’s degree and The Juilliard School with a Master’s degree, Ra’s musical journey has been shaped by notable leadership roles as the principal cellist of the Juilliard Orchestra, several of Indiana University’s orchestras, and the National Repertory Orchestra. She has participated in world-renowned festivals, including the Spoleto Festival, Pacific Music Festival, the New York String Orchestra Seminar, and the Lakes Area Music Festival.
Ra’s professional performance experience includes engagements with the Charleston Symphony Orchestra, Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, and Columbus Indiana Philharmonic. She has performed on the stages of some of the world’s most prestigious venues, including Carnegie Hall, David Geffen Hall, Lotte Concert Hall in South Korea, and Suntory Hall in Japan.
Her primary teachers include Emanuel Gruber, Peter Stumpf, and Natasha Brofsky. Ra is deeply passionate about music and enjoys sharing the concert experience with audiences of all backgrounds. When not performing, she enjoys cooking and baking.