Jaryn Danz, a native of Madison, Wisconsin, is pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in viola performance. Jaryn was drawn to the viola in elementary school, choosing it from the string family because cello and bass were “too big” and because “everybody plays violin.” Over the years, she has enjoyed working with musicians all over the country, and counts the people she has met as the best perk of being a musician. Some of her current musical interests include contemporary viola repertoire and chamber music for unexpected groupings of instruments.

In addition to playing with regional orchestras such as the Chippewa Valley Symphony, the Eau Claire Chamber Orchestra and the Boulder Symphony, Jaryn also has experience working in arts administration. She credits her work in administration at the National Music Festival and the University of Colorado Boulder for her enjoyment of "putting out fires" and creating spreadsheets for every aspect of her life.

Prior to attending Ohio State, Jaryn received degrees from the University of Colorado Boulder and the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. She currently studies with Juliet White-Smith; her past teachers have included Erika Eckert, Geraldine Walther, Molly Gebrian and Marie Pauls.