Violinist Qiong Hulsey has been with the FWSO since 1997, with several hiatuses. She ventured to Tampa, Florida, for two years to play in the Florida Orchestra, conducted by Jahja Ling. She also played with the Utah Symphony as principal second violin for one year.

Qiong began playing violin at age 5. Her father was her first teacher. She received her bachelor’s degree in music performance from Xinhai Conservatory in Guangzhou, China, and was concertmaster of the Xinhai Conservatory orchestra during that time. She was also a finalist in the Chinese National Competition in 1990. In addition, she was appointed by the Ministry of Education of the city of Guangzhou to make a recording that included 38 pieces for young children by various composers.

As a devoted mother, she cooked dinner and helped her daughters study Chinese and practice violin every day. Now she enjoys walking, yoga, movies, having tea with friends. Qiong is also very passionate about helping young musicians explore their talents, so she teaches violin and volunteers at area schools. She wants to practice piano, be fluent in Spanish and travel to Europe one day.

Qiong plays on a violin made for her in 2012 by master luthier Samuel Zygmuntowicz in New York City.