Michael Rau started the violin at the age of 6 in his hometown of Newton, Iowa. He developed a passion for symphonic music early on, participating in the Des Moines Youth Symphony and later the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestra. Before joining the Baltimore Symphony in 2022, Michael was a fellow at the New World Symphony in Miami, Florida, where he worked and performed with Michael Tilson Thomas. Mr. Rau has participated in summer festivals including Verbier, Pacific Music Festival, and Music Academy of the West. An avid chamber musician, he has also performed and toured across the world as a member of various chamber groups. He also is a dedicated educator, and has held institutional teaching positions as well as maintaining a private studio. Michael holds degrees from the New England Conservatory and Bard College. In his spare time, he enjoys traveling, hiking, biking, and other sports.