From Xiamen to Interlochen: Xiye Chen finds community, excellence, and purpose at Arts Academy
When Xiye Chen switched from cello to double bass at age 11, he discovered not just an instrument that anchors the orchestra's sound, but a global community that would eventually lead him from Xiamen, China, to the forests of northern Michigan.
Music runs deep in Xiye Chen's family. Born in Xiamen, China, he began his musical journey on cello before switching to double bass at age 11, following in the footsteps of his sister, who also plays bass. What started as a simple instrument change quickly evolved into a fierce passion, driven by Chen's appreciation for the double bass's essential role in orchestral music.
“People usually think the double bass is not as important as a violin in the orchestra, but if you hear the violins play alone, they're too high-pitched,” he says. “The double basses bring them down, and help balance out the sound.”
Beyond the instrument itself, Chen has discovered a welcoming community among bassists worldwide. His first taste of this came at a convention he attended in Ann Arbor, Michigan, hosted by the International Society of Bassists (ISB). Chen enjoyed taking part in performances, lectures, workshops, and competitions. More importantly, he made a connection that would shape the course of his high school years.
“I met Derek Weller, Instructor of Double Bass, and he said he really wanted me to come to Interlochen Arts Academy,” said Chen. “He told me not to worry about the tuition. So I applied, and they gave me everything I needed to be able to come here.”
For Chen, who had long dreamed of attending a major U.S. conservatory, studying at Interlochen felt like the perfect stepping stone toward that goal.
Adjusting to a new life
When Chen first arrived at Interlochen, he found the transition relatively smooth, though he did notice some differences in the American academic system.
“In China, students sit in the same classroom all day, and the teachers shift around between periods. Here, the students move, so you have more chances to meet people in different classes,” he says.
Chen works hard at his academics and musicianship, and he also appreciates the time he has to devote to non-academic pursuits. He’s a member of Interlochen’s ecology club, and recently joined a group of student photographers. Interlochen’s 1,200-acre campus has been the perfect backdrop for stunning shots.
“I especially like the lake view when it's pretty at sunset,” he says.
Chen works out at least four times a week—a habit he says benefits him as a musician.
“ I have a big instrument and I have to carry heavy stuff,” he laughs. “And I’m not the only double bassist in the gym. At least three of my friends lift weights, too.”
Other than being away from family, Chen says the hardest part of being an international student is missing traditional Chinese foods. Over summer breaks, which he spends with a Traverse City host family, Chen teaches himself how to cook. He also enjoys tasting food from other countries and cultures at Interlochen’s International Food Fair.
“I really appreciate Kalyn Rabuse and the work she does to set up events for international students,” he says.
Inside the Music Center, Chen has continued to work with Weller, whose connections to colleges and conservatories are proving invaluable in his senior year.
“Dr. Weller is super helpful, and he’s worked with me a lot on my college applications. He’s also helped me connect to professors from multiple conservatories. This year, we went to the ISB Convention in Florida and had a great time.”
Giving back to the campus community
Grateful for the support he's received, Chen has made giving back to the Interlochen community a priority. As a peer mentor, he guides freshmen through their transition to campus life.
”It's pretty fun giving them campus tours,” he says.
He’s also an international liaison in the Picasso dormitory. Each week, he holds “office hours” for fellow international students to bring questions or concerns.
Chen balances all of these efforts with four days a week of rehearsal, frequent concerts, and preparation for the future. In the immediate term, he’s shooting for the top prize in Interlochen’s concerto competition and getting ready to go on tour with Interlochen and Yo-Yo Ma in March. Looking further ahead, he's applying to prestigious institutions including the Colburn School of Music and Curtis Institute of Music.
Asked what his advice would be to incoming international students, Chen emphasizes patience and perspective: “Take time when you first get here to establish yourself and get used to a different culture. If you are trying to go to a conservatory or top art school, Interlochen is a valuable experience.”
16% of Arts Academy students are international students. Learn more about becoming an international student at Arts Academy.
