Karen Yu, also named Ya Yu, is a flute instructor and a performer in the Bay Area. She was born and raised in Beijing, China. Her musical journey started at a young age, influenced by her father, a professional Suona Player from The China National Traditional Orchestra. At age of eight, she began her flute education with a Chinese Bamboo flute and was later introduced to the Western flute in middle school. Despite the distinct playing techniques of these two instruments, her dedication in practice and discipline allowed her to develop proficiency in both.

After gaining confidence in both flutes, Karen realized that they offered unique styles of music, each requiring different skills. This insight led her to combine the two types of flute skills and incorporate them into her performances.

In 2013, Karen commenced her professional education at Chapman University, with a degree of Music Education earned in 2017. During her time at Chapman, she studied under the guidance of Mary Palchak. Throughout her undergraduate years, Karen skillfully integrated elements from both flutes into various musical pieces. In responding to her professor's request for a semester concert, she adapted two Western flute pieces into Chinese flute versions. Karen has also performed solo parts for two Japanese songs, Mashima and Kushida. Under Mary's mentorship, Karen’s flute-playing skills improved continuously. Concurrently, she also studied music theory and music history diligently, laying a solid foundation for her professional career.

While pursuing her degree at Chapman University, Karen simultaneously accumulated teaching experiences and held primary music teacher positions in several music studios in Southern California. In the summer of 2018, Karen relocated to the Bay Area in California, joining C&L and Canon music studios. She continued her mission in education to inspire students as a flute and music theory teacher through these studios. In 2021, she decided to pursue a more structured and systematic learning, leading her to study with Jim Walker and a graduate study. With the graduate education, Karen would further enrich her understanding of music theory and playing techniques. She is eager to delve deeper into Western music history, harmony,

and other related subjects to enhance her professional skills as a classical performer and a more versatile instructor.

Currently, Karen is pursuing her master degree with Ray Furuta at the San Jose State University. Along with her graduate studies, she has become a teaching assistant, instructing undergraduate students independently in Music Fundamentals. Despite her academic commitments, she remains committed to her private music studio students, ensuring that she imparts her newly acquired knowledge and skills to help herself and her students’ progress together.