Leo Zhang

Style: Classical, musicals, classic pop

Leo was born in Beijing in an artistic family. He had begin to study the violin at the age of 4 with his father.
His studies were interrupted when his family left China, Leo was not allowed to leave with his parents.
Only after his family had immigrated to Canada was Leo able to join them, arriving in Toronto at the age of 11, Leo attended the King Edward School and Earl Haig High School. He also studied cello at the Royal Conservatory of Music. During his high school education, Leo decided to leave music and pursue visual art. But eventually returned to music, picking up the cello again after 7 years, Leo was able to successfully pass the entrance exam of University of Toronto's Music School after three months of preparation. Leo graduated with a Master's degree in Performance in 2002, His teacher was Shauna Rolston. A gifted teacher for both young students and adults alike, Leo continued the family tradition of pedagogy, obtaining his Degree in Education TDSB Teaching Certificate in 2012 from the University of Toronto.
Leo has also actively performed in Europe with his Sister Zhang Zhang, several charity concerts in Monte Carlo and cultural events including the famous Carnival of the Roman city of Arles in the South of France, where Leo performed for more than 5000 people during the traditional festivities.
in 2014 and 2015, Leo has performed with his Mother in major concert halls of Beijing, China.
During his studies, his parents had divorced, Leo was living with his mother, to supplement the house income, Leo auditioned for a license to perform as a TTC musician in the subway system.
over the years, Leo's music has touched tens of thousand of passengers, bringing a moment of beauty and serenity in people's daily commute. Leo has become a artist of the people, known to the public from all walks of life. Leo has been featured by Toronto Star, Metro News, featured in an exclusive documentary by Fairchild TV and nominated for Best Chinese Speaking Artist Aboard in 2014.
Leo is founding member of the popular ensemble Urban Gypsy Band with Natalie Wong on violin and vocals and Mel Harrietha on Guitar, Bass and Vocals, Leo also sings and creates original compositions. The group is known for their cultural diversity as their musical styles ranges from Spanish Flamenco to Chinese folk music and many more in between. in 2014, The Urban Gypsy performed at the Gala evening of the Annual Chinese New Year celebrations in Toronto for more than 10,000 live audiences.
Leo is also now the vice president of ZHANGOMUSIQ North America. Creating and performing charity concerts for the benefit of our community.