Ryoko Hou is a Toronto-based collaborative artist whose work spans both classical and contemporary repertoire in solo and chamber settings. She began piano studies at the age of three in Japan, later adding flute at fifteen. As a young flutist, she appeared as a soloist with youth orchestras across multiple cities and national competitions.
After completing her Bachelor of Arts degree, Ryoko relocated to Toronto, Canada, where she studied with esteemed mentors including Adam Sherkin, Dianne Aitken, Alexander Rapoport, the late Peter Longworth, Chris Foley, and Jeanie Chung. She went on to earn an Advanced Certificate in Piano Performance at the University of Toronto, followed by a Master of Music in Collaborative Piano and a Master’s degree in Historical Performance on harpsichord, under the guidance of Professors Steven Philcox, Lydia Wong, Dr. James Parker, and Dr. Enrico Elisi. She continues her studies with Dr. Luc Beauséjour in Montreal and is currently pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts in Historical Performance at the University of Toronto. In summer 2025, she undertook an intensive study period with Professor Tineke Steenbrink in the Netherlands, further solidifying her artistic foundation.
Her musical achievements have been recognized with esteemed accolades, including the Dame Emma Kirkby Awardand the Suzie LeBlanc Award.
In 2023, Ryoko co-founded the Toronto Baroque Players with viola da gambist John Marko and baroque flautist Emily Richardson. The ensemble has presented three full recitals and was invited to perform at the Toronto Bach Festival 2024.
As an emerging composer, Ryoko has premiered original works for voice, viol consort, and baroque violin at the New Music Festival 2025. With unwavering passion and dedication, she continues to elevate the art of collaborative music, seamlessly bridging historical and contemporary traditions.
B.A. RCM Gold medal, ARCT in Piano Performance, RCM Level 10 in Flute. Advanced Certificate in Piano Performance (University of Toronto)
Master of Music in Collaborative Piano (University of Toronto), MMUS in Historical Performance, Doctor of Musical Arts, 2028 (University of Toronto)
coming soon!