Project Harmonia was founded by Dr. Grace Xia Zhao.

Born and raised in Sichuan, China, Dr. Grace Xia Zhao began her journey as a pianist at the age of three, navigating the world through the language of music. Decades of performing and teaching led her to reflect on fundamental questions: What is music for? and Why should we all embrace a musical life? These inquiries ignited her exploration of the intersection between music, well-being, and human flourishing—an intellectual and artistic pursuit that culminated in Project Harmonia, a creative initiative dedicated to harnessing musical approaches for a more fulfilling life.

Dr. Zhao is a Professor of Music and Chair of the Music Department at the University of La Verne in Los Angeles, California. She holds a Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the University of Southern California and a Master’s degree in Applied Positive Psychology from the University of Pennsylvania. As a concert pianist, music educator, and well-being scholar, she is committed to illuminating music’s transformative power in both personal and communal contexts.