Born into a musical family of 8 siblings, Jacob MacDonald graduated with a piano performance degree from Dalhousie University, receiving the University Medal in Music for highest graduating GPA. He then obtained a Masters in Cello Performance and a Graduate Diploma in Performance at the University of Ottawa, studying with Paul Marleyn. He is currently studying at the University of Michigan with Richard Aaron. He has had the opportunity to learn from many prominent cellists such as Steven Isserlis, Johannes Moser, Amit Peled, Andres Diaz, and Denise Djokic. Jacob has performed as cello soloist in both Halifax and Ottawa as a winner of university concerto competitions. He holds a section cello position in the Windsor Symphony Orchestra. Further orchestral experience includes performances with the National Arts Centre Orchestra, the Ottawa Symphony Orchestra, and principal cellist of UOttawa Symphony Orchestra.Jacob is also an accomplished pianist, having won the 2019 Piano Rose Bowl from the Kiwanis Music Festival and appeared 3 times as concerto soloist with the Dalhousie University Orchestra. He has been blessed with many awards and scholarships, including the Fountain Prize in Music and support from the Nova Scotia Talent Trust.  He loves to teach and maintains a busy studio as a trained Suzuki teacher.  In his spare time Jacob enjoys renovation, canoe-camping, and sports.  Jacob’s desire is to use his musical abilities for the glory of God.