Chien Chien Lu is a Taiwanese-born jazz vibraphonist and composer based in New York, celebrated for her innovative fusion of classical training and vibrant jazz influences. With accolades such as being named one of DownBeat Magazine's "25 for the Future," Lu captivates audiences with her unique sound and dynamic performances on the global jazz stage.
Chien Chien Lu is a Taiwanese-born jazz vibraphonist, contemporary percussionist, and composer based in New York. With a rich background in classical music and a vibrant passion for jazz, Lu has carved a niche for herself as a dynamic force in the global jazz scene.
Born in 1989 in Taiwan, Chien Chien Lu began her musical journey early, learning piano at age 6 and percussion at age 10. Her classical training in contemporary percussion in Taiwan laid a foundation for her future endeavors. She achieved her master's degree in classical music from Taipei National University of the Arts in 2015. That same year, Lu moved to the U.S. to delve into jazz at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, earning a Master of Music in Jazz Studies in 2017.
Lu's career took off when she joined the renowned Ju Percussion Group in 2008, performing extensively across Asia. Her collaborations include performing with composer Ching-Mei Lin on the marimba concerto "Pulsing Wave" and playing percussion for the Cloud Gate Dance Theatre's "Legacy" in 2012. Lu's solo percussion concert at Taipei Novel Hall in 2013 and recognition as an "Emerging Young Artist" in 2014 highlighted her growing presence in the field.
Chien Chien Lu's foray into jazz began in 2012 upon hearing it on the radio in Taiwan. Her formal jazz training expanded at the Banff Jazz Residency in 2017, where she connected with trumpeter Jeremy Pelt. Joining the Jeremy Pelt Quintet in 2018, she toured and recorded extensively with the group. Her debut solo album, "The Path," released in 2020, received critical acclaim, spending 20 weeks in the JazzWeek Top 20.
Lu has been spotlighted as one of DownBeat Magazine's "25 for the Future" and was one of the Recording Academy's "10 Emerging Jazz Artists of 2023." Her collaboration with Richie Goods on "Connected" won "Best Instrumental Album" at the 34th Golden Melody Awards. As a recognized "vibraphone rising star," Lu's sophomore album, "Built In System," launched in 2023 and was hailed by The Times of London as a top jazz and world album of the year.
Lu's music harmoniously merges her Taiwanese heritage, classical training, and love of jazz grooves, crafting a unique soundscape that speaks to her diverse influences. She draws inspiration from vibraphonist Roy Ayers and is celebrated for her lyrical expression across various musical contexts.
Lu's performances have graced stages at Clifford Brown Jazz Festival, DC Jazz Festival, Monterey Jazz Festival, and Helsinki Jazz Festival. She is slated to perform at Jazz at Lincoln Center's The Unity Festival in January 2025, furthering her international acclaim.
Currently, Chien Chien Lu leads her own band, captivating audiences worldwide with her tours. She continues to collaborate with fellow artists and perform at premier jazz venues and festivals.
Chien Chien Lu stands out as a remarkable musician whose innovative blend of cultural traditions and jazz expressions continues to redefine the boundaries of contemporary music.
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