At just 17 years old, Sinjo Yap has already spent much of her life with a cello by her side. The young Malaysian cellist will begin her bachelor’s studies this October, continuing a musical journey that has taken her from childhood lessons in Malaysia to one of the world’s most renowned cities for classical music: Vienna.
As someone who practises every day, attends lessons, participates in masterclasses and competes internationally, her story reflects years of dedication, discipline and a growing passion for music that continues to shape her life.
From a Violinist to Cellist
Sinjo’s introduction to music began with the violin. Learning the instrument was compulsory during her kindergarten years. But a chance encounter eventually changed the course of her musical journey.
After attending a cello concert with her mother, a sudden interest struck her and caught her attention. “The cellists were sitting down while they played,” she recalls with a laugh. Having spent countless hours standing during violin practices and performances, the idea seemed revolutionary. “I told my mom I didn’t want to learn violin anymore. I wanted to switch,” she says. What began as a childhood observation soon developed into something much deeper.
She remembers being captivated by the cello’s rich and resonant sound. Having already built a foundational grasp of the violin, the transition felt surprisingly natural, although adapting to the cello’s larger size required time and practice.
One moment that particularly stayed with her was her first solo recital at the age of ten. After months of preparation and dedication, she stepped onto the stage and experienced the feeling of sharing her music with an audience for the first time. Hearing the applause after such a meaningful effort made her realise just how much she enjoyed performing and the connection that music could create.
Growing Up with Music
Behind every young musician is a support system. For Sinjo, her family has played a defining role throughout her journey. Pursuing music professionally requires significant commitment, both in time and resources. From competitions in Singapore, Japan and Hungary to lessons and training opportunities abroad, her parents consistently supported her ambitions.
Even today, when competitions take place elsewhere in Europe, either her mother or father will often travel to accompany her. Music was also a natural part of life at home. Her mother, who plays the piano, would regularly perform for Sinjo and her brother before bedtime when they were young. Those early moments helped create an environment where music felt less like an obligation and more like a part of everyday life.
Growing up as a young musician also taught her discipline. While many of her peers spent long hours gaming during the COVID-19 lockdowns, Sinjo continued practising and maintaining her routine. Looking back, she believes the experience helped her develop time management skills and consistency from an early age.
Outside of music, however, she remains every bit a teenager. Whether it is watching her K-dramas on Netflix, scrolling through her phone or simply spending time relaxing, she values every bit of her time beyond practising the cello.
Finding Her Place in Vienna
Sinjo was accepted into the University of Music and Performing Arts, Vienna at just 12 years old and relocated there when she was only 14 years old. Her reaction upon receiving the news was perhaps not what many would expect. “Honestly, I was just excited that I could travel again,” she says, recalling the restrictions of the pandemic years.
Moving abroad came with challenges, but adapting to new environments was something she had grown accustomed to from a young age. Being one of the few Malaysians in both her previous music high school and current university never felt like a major obstacle.
What took more adjustment, she jokes, was the food. “It took me a while to adjust to Austrian food compared to what I’m used to back in Malaysia.” Yet beyond cultural differences, Vienna introduced her to an entirely new level of musical excellence. Back in Malaysia, music often felt comfortable and familiar. In Vienna, she found herself surrounded by talented peers who shared the same ambitions and dedication. That experience pushed her to grow and motivated her to reach for the stars.
She was particularly inspired by her professor, whose approach to music opened her eyes to ideas and interpretations she had never considered before. “Even now, I’m still surprised by how he plays and what he teaches,” she says. Being immersed in one of the world’s leading classical music environments has challenged her technically, artistically and personally, helping her develop not just as a musician but as a young adult.
Looking Ahead, One Note at a Time
Despite her accomplishments so far, Sinjo remains refreshingly grounded. She describes herself as someone who is still learning, still exploring, and still figuring out the kind of musician she wants to become. As she grows older, her relationship with music and stage performances continues to evolve. She used to focus heavily on technical perfection, but came to realise that live performances are more than just flawless execution.
Today, she is increasingly interested in the emotions and experiences that music can communicate to an audience. This growing appreciation for musical connection is also reflected in her upcoming performances in Malaysia. Sinjo will be performing alongside fellow Malaysian musicians, pianist Magdalene Ho and violinist Alyssa Chong in the Magdalene Ho & Friends: Piano & Chamber Recital that is happening on the 19 July 2026 at UCSI University. This recital is one of the many cross-border collaborations that MyHeart champions, creating opportunities for talented Malaysians abroad to share their expertise and reconnect with other Malaysians back home.
Reflecting on Malaysia’s musical landscape, Sinjo believes the country is home to many talented young musicians with tremendous potential. At the same time, she hopes future Malaysian musicians will focus not only on examinations and certificates but also on developing a genuine love for music itself. “Interest and passion should always come first,” she says.
As she prepares for the next stage of her studies and musical development, one thing remains certain, her journey is only beginning. From a young girl who switched instruments to a Malaysian cellist building her future in Vienna, Sinjo’s story is a reminder that sometimes the most meaningful journeys begin with the simplest decisions.
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