- Instrument First Violins
Paul Ching (he/him/his) is a musician based in the Des Moines area. While his primary instrument is violin, he also plays viola, piano, and saxophone. He has studied violin under Rebecca Windschitl, Jonathan Sturm, and Maureen Yuen.
In 2023, he graduated from Drake University with degrees in Actuarial Science and Music. While his primary career involves working as an actuary, Paul is still very active as a musician. In addition to his position with the Des Moines Symphony, he is frequently involved with local community orchestras he was a part of while growing up, namely the Carroll Area Symphony and the Fort Dodge Area Symphony. Paul also plays with groups including Quartet 515 and the Des Moines Choral Society, and is often involved in performances for various churches, school districts, and colleges in the area.
Paul also enjoys composing and arranging. His compositional output currently consists of collaborating with local filmmakers on short film projects, and curating wedding arrangements for various ensembles. Some recognition he has received in composing includes winning Best Original Musical Score in the 2025 Des Moines 48 Hour Film Project, and being a prize winner in the Winter 2023 Indie Film Music Contest.
As both an actuary and musician, Paul uses his skillsets to contribute to his communities as a board member for organizations including the Zenith Chamber Music Festival and the Ankeny String Music Initiative.
