South Orange County Orchestra
The South Orange County Orchestra is a brand new orchestra bringing world class performances to South Orange County. Our mission is to inspire, educate, and unite audiences through music that celebrates both tradition and innovation, creating a vibrant cultural home for our community.
About
The South Orange County Orchestra is Orange County’s newest orchestra, dedicated to bringing world class symphonic music to our community. Founded in 2025, SOCO seeks to inspire, connect, and uplift audiences through performances that celebrate both timeless classics and fresh, accessible works.With its home in South Orange County, SOCO is committed not only to artistic excellence but also to meaningful community impact. Through concerts, collaborations, and educational initiatives, we aim to make orchestral music an integral part of life in South Orange County and beyond. Our vision is to create a vibrant cultural home where musicians, audiences, and young people alike can experience the transformative power of live music.
Concerts
Inaugural Concert: April 11, 2026
(More details coming soon)
Board Members
Hankyol Koo - Founder
Dr. Shawn Hamilton - Board Member
Anthony Zueck - Board Member
Alex Deng - Advisor
Alex Deng
Alex Deng is an American conductor, composer, violist, and arts advocate whose work sits at the intersection of symphonic music, civic leadership, and public affairs. As the Co Founder and Artistic Director of the San Gabriel Valley Symphony, a special initiative of Arts Bridging The Gap, Alex leads with a mission to reimagine what a symphony can be, expanding access, amplifying unheard voices, and using music as a tool for civic engagement. He views the orchestra not just as a performing ensemble, but as a mutual aid organization for the arts: responsive to community needs, built on solidarity, and grounded in cultural equity. Alex Deng is currently Artist in Residence at Arts Bridging the Gap, where he leads the San Gabriel Valley Symphony special initiative. In 2024, he was awarded the Create CA Arts Now Leader Grant for his contribution to music education advocacy in the San Gabriel Valley. Recently, He was awarded a Certificate of Recognition from the California State Legislature by Assemblymember Mike Fong (49th District) for founding the San Gabriel Valley Symphony and presenting its inaugural concert on August 23rd at the Barnes Park Amphitheatre, which drew over 1,000 attendees. In addition, he formerly served as Student Outreach Officer on Through The Staff, a 501C3 music education nonprofit providing virtual private lessons to underserved communities.Founded in 2025, the San Gabriel Valley Symphony is a new professional regional orchestra based in Los Angeles County, just 10 miles east of Downtown LA. It brings together a coalition of civic leaders, professional musicians, and arts advocates committed to building a vibrant cultural home for the San Gabriel Valley. The orchestra is dedicated to community resilience, equitable access, and the transformative power of public performance. In their inaugural season, the SGV Symphony has secured partnerships with the city of San Gabriel, the city of Monterey Park, and was awarded a grant from the Monterey Park Healing Fund. Alex currently serves on the San Gabriel Mission Playhouse strategic planning committee with a sole mission to lead efforts in transforming the San Gabriel Valley into a cultural epicenter for the arts.Alex made his international conducting debut in 2022 with the National Symphony Orchestra of Costa Rica, taking the stage in a sold-out program that featured the premiere of his original work Torch of Dreams, performed alongside music by John Williams. He has since conducted the Royal Bangkok Symphony Orchestra premiering his piece Solidarity March, Sofia Philharmonic, and Vratsa Sinfonietta, among others.As a composer and conductor, Alex has led numerous professional studio recording sessions for film and video game projects, working with ensembles such as the Northern Film Orchestra (UK), European Recording Orchestra (Bulgaria), Tokyo SoundLink and Budapest Scoring Orchestra (Hungary). He has conducted his original works as well as commercial scores, blending cinematic and classical idioms. His recent compositions include Victory, Love, and Farewell, a tribute to the victims of the Monterey Park mass shooting and Winds of Solidarity, commissioned for the Stanislaus County Honor Band. As a freelance violist, Alex has performed with the Dream Orchestra of Los Angeles, LA Sinfonietta, and the Roudaki Orchestra under the baton of Shardad Rohani, Daniel Suk and Larry Livingston. He has appeared at Walt Disney Concert Hall, the Aratani Theatre, and Segerstrom Center for the Arts, and currently serves as a string teaching artist at Alhambra High School. He plays on a 1942 Viola by Carlton F. Stanley.Outside the concert hall, Alex produces large scale live events for classical musicians and educators, and supports national touring productions across the United States. His arts administration experience includes internships with the American Youth Symphony, Boston Festival Orchestra, and Pacific Symphony working in marketing, public affairs and social media. Alex founded the Jazz on Main Street concert series in 2024, which brings high caliber jazz talent to the San Gabriel Valley. In their inaugural season of Jazz On Main Street, Alex produced 10 succesful shows with notable concerts including Japanese jazz fusion, bossa nova, and straight ahead.Raised in a working class immigrant family in Alhambra, California, Alex studied music and public policy at the University of Southern California. In his formative years, Alex Deng was active in local and state politics in California. He was awarded the Grassroots Alhambra scholarship in 2018 for his advocacy work in the San Gabriel Valley and the same year, he interned for Gavin Newsom's 2018 gubernatorial campaign. His dual background in the arts and civic leadership shapes every project he takes on whether mentoring young composers, launching community concert series, or partnering with city governments to make orchestral music part of everyday life. Through the San Gabriel Valley Symphony, he is building a homegrown institution grounded in community, culture, and the belief that symphonic music can change lives.Alex Deng is represented by Price Attractions & Artist Management.
Anthony Zueck
Antho Zueck is a licensed Broker Associate with Bullock Russell Real Estate Services. Known as Mr. Hyperlocal, he grew up in Laguna Niguel and specializes in the South Orange County market. His success in real estate has been well-founded upon his life experience which allows him to authentically connect with clients from all walks of life, and all over the globe. He does residential, commercial, and business transactions.Antho operates a successful YouTube channel which publishes real estate education videos and videos on local interest stories. He has had multiple videos go viral online and been interviewed and published in the Orange County Register.For 10 years he served as an educator and private school director and his expertise and connections with local schools are prized by locals and families moving to the area. He is active in the Chinese expat community and speaks fluent Mandarin Chinese.Outside of real estate Antho maintains many hobbies through which he connects with clients. In his prior work with OC Lifeguards he traveled every inch of the Orange County coastline and is an expert on the local beaches. In the winter he serves as an elite basketball referee for South Orange County high schools. He also contributes as a volunteer to the Laguna Ocean Foundation and Naturalist For You as a naturalist educator. He is a member of the Laguna Niguel Chamber of Commerce, the Laguna Niguel Historical Society, and the Laguna Niguel Military Support Committee. He serves on the Board of Directors for Sally's Fund of Laguna Beach and the South Orange County Orchestra.
Hankyol Koo
Hankyol Koo is the Founder and Artistic Director of the South Orange County Orchestra, where he brings a passion for performance, education, and community engagement to the podium. He holds an AA in Music from Mt. San Antonio College, a BM in Music Education from Biola University, an MM in Choral Conducting from Azusa Pacific University, and an EdM in Music Education from Teachers College, Columbia University.As a chorister, Hankyol has performed in multiple international choral competitions as well as at multiple regional and national American Choral Directors Association (ACDA) conferences. His conducting credits include major sacred works such as Fauré’s Requiem and Duruflé’s Requiem with John West at Hollywood United Methodist Church, and Schubert’s Mass in G with Northminster Presbyterian Church in Diamond Bar, CA.Beyond the podium, Hankyol is committed to the next generation of musicians. He serves as a Teaching Artist with the Grammy winning Pacific Chorale Academy, and he founded the NPC Music Education Initiative at Northminster Presbyterian Church, a program providing conducting opportunities for music education majors from Cal State Long Beach, Azusa Pacific University, Biola University, Cal State Fullerton, and Mt. San Antonio College.Hankyol continues to develop his craft through study with internationally acclaimed conductor Tianyi Lu, and he has participated in workshops with leading pedagogues including Diane Wittry, Gary Lewis, Lawrence Golan, Anna Edwards, and Scott Weiss.In addition to his musical career, Hankyol is also an actor, appearing in commercials for major brands including Hyundai, Samsung, and a recent ESPN skit alongside Jim Gaffigan. His dual careers in music and performance reflect his lifelong commitment to storytelling, creativity, and inspiring audiences across artistic disciplines.
Dr. Shawn Hamilton
Shawn Hamilton, MD, has more than 20 years of experience as a board-certified physician in internal medicine. She practices at Spruce Medical Group in Irvine, California, and is affiliated with Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian, located in Newport and in Irvine, California. Dr. Hamilton speaks many languages, including Chinese (Mandarin), Taiwanese, and some medical Spanish.Dr. Hamilton graduated from the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and completed her residency in Internal Medicine at the Charles R. Drew University of Science and Medicine in Los Angeles, with additional training in family medicine at Long Beach Medical Center. To reach as many people in her diverse community as possible, she accepts a wide range of insurances, including Cal-Optima, Medicare, Aetna PPO, Blue Cross Prudent Buyer PPO, and Blue Shield PPO.As a primary care physician, Dr. Hamilton sees her role as addressing the concerns of the men and women who visit her office, assessing their symptoms, and treating them, or if necessary, referring them to a subspecialist. She prides herself on minimizing any delay in calling in medications and processing referrals for lab and radiology orders, which has earned her accolades for running an efficient, caring practice and the Top Doctors Award of Orange Coast Magazine.
Conductors
Hankyol Koo - Artistic Director
Vincent Rodriguez - Assistant Conductor
Hankyol Koo
Hankyol Koo is the Founder and Artistic Director of the South Orange County Orchestra, where he brings a passion for performance, education, and community engagement to the podium. He holds an AA in Music from Mt. San Antonio College, a BM in Music Education from Biola University, an MM in Choral Conducting from Azusa Pacific University, and an EdM in Music Education from Teachers College, Columbia University.As a chorister, Hankyol has performed in multiple international choral competitions as well as at multiple regional and national American Choral Directors Association (ACDA) conferences. His conducting credits include major sacred works such as Fauré’s Requiem and Duruflé’s Requiem with John West at Hollywood United Methodist Church, and Schubert’s Mass in G with Northminster Presbyterian Church in Diamond Bar, CA.Beyond the podium, Hankyol is committed to the next generation of musicians. He serves as a Teaching Artist with the Grammy winning Pacific Chorale Academy, and he founded the NPC Music Education Initiative at Northminster Presbyterian Church, a program providing conducting opportunities for music education majors from Cal State Long Beach, Azusa Pacific University, Biola University, Cal State Fullerton, and Mt. San Antonio College.Hankyol continues to develop his craft through study with internationally acclaimed conductor Tianyi Lu, and he has participated in workshops with leading pedagogues including Diane Wittry, Gary Lewis, Lawrence Golan, Anna Edwards, and Scott Weiss.In addition to his musical career, Hankyol is also an actor, appearing in commercials for major brands including Hyundai, Samsung, and a recent ESPN skit alongside Jim Gaffigan. His dual careers in music and performance reflect his lifelong commitment to storytelling, creativity, and inspiring audiences across artistic disciplines.
Vincent Rodriguez
Coming soon.
Musicians
The South Orange County Orchestra collaborates with a diverse roster of musicians from across Southern California. Not all roster members perform in every concert, but each contributes to SOCO’s musical community and performances throughout the season.
Violins
Violas
Cellos
Basses
Flutes
Clarinets
Oboes
Bassoons
Horns
Trumpets
Trombones
Tubas
Timpani
Percussion
Keyboard
Organ
Harp
Adrian Wu
Adrian Wu is a bassoonist based in the Los Angeles and Orange County areas, where he is active as both a performer and educator. He is currently pursuing a degree in Bassoon Performance and Music Education at California State University, Fullerton, studying with Willam May.He currently holds the position of second bassoon and contrabassoon with the CSUF Wind Symphony and Symphony Orchestra. He also has appeared in renowned venues including the Segerstrom Center for the Arts and the Carpenter
Performing Arts Center, and has done work at the Eastwood Scoring Stage at Warner Bros. Studios in Burbank.
Abraham Hernandez
Abraham Hernandez is a flutist, piccolo specialist, and pianist known for his versatility across orchestral, symphonic wind, and chamber repertoire. He currently holds the piccolo position in both the Corona Symphony Orchestra and Symphonic Winds of the Pacific. In addition to his performance roles, he serves as Communications and Social Media Director for both organizations and sits on the Board of Directors of Symphonic Winds of the Pacific.Abraham studied flute at Fullerton College with Patti Maggs and at California State University, Fullerton with Cynthia Ellis and Diane Alancraig, whose guidance shaped a foundation rooted in both orchestral excellence and expressive solo playing. His artistry reflects a balance of technical brilliance, tonal warmth, and collaborative sensitivity, earning him recognition as both a section leader and soloist.Beyond the stage, Abraham is dedicated to community engagement and arts advocacy. Through his leadership roles, he develops innovative digital strategies to expand audience reach, support fundraising, and highlight the vibrant role of symphonic music in Southern California.As a classically trained pianist as well, Abraham brings a unique dual perspective to his performances and collaborations. His work continues to celebrate the tradition of wind and orchestral music while embracing modern storytelling and outreach to new audiences.
Alex Santiago
Alex Santiago (he/him) is a trumpeter and educator based in Southern California. He is currently under the tutelage of Sycil Mathai, pursuing his undergraduate studies in Classical Trumpet at California State University, Fullerton.Alex is actively involved in both classical and commercial work. He regularly plays lead trumpet with various Latin Groups in the Southern California area and performs regularly with the Fullerton Symphony Orchestra and Wind Symphony. He has toured internationally with the Bill Cunliffe Jazz Orchestra and had the honor of performing with National Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame and Grammy Hall of Fame inductee Gene Chandler as his last lead Trumpet.As an educator, Alex is a trumpet instructor at Katella High School and South Junior High, and has adjudicated for the San Bernardino County Music Educator Association (SBCMEA) an organization that host regional audition based Honor Ensembles that Alex actively participated in throughout middle school and high school. Alex received 3rd Place in the 2023 Music Associates Student Solo Concerto/Aria Competition and is a recipient of the 2018 Louis Armstrong Jazz Award
Alex Tran
Coming soon.
Amanda Māra Rizzotto
Latvian Brazilian harpist and soprano Dr. Amanda Māra Rizzotto received a doctorate from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas under Dr. Kimberly James, and a Master of Music from North Park University under Dr. Annie Picard.She performs in events in Southern California. Throughout her career performed with the Orquestra Sinfônica da UFRJ in Brazil, North Park University Chamber Orchestra and UNLV Orchestra.
Amelia Thompson
Amelia Thompson was born in Long Beach, CA and is a graduate of the USC Thornton School of Music where she studied choral music. As a choral accompanist, she has had the pleasure of working with the National Children's Chorus, Long Beach Camerata Singers, Youth Chorus LA, VOX Femina and the Pasadena Conservatory of Music. In 2023 she made her solo debut at Walt Disney Concert Hall in Disney PRIDE with the Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angeles (GMCLA) where she holds the Principal Accompanist position. At present, Miss Thompson is the accompanist at Long Beach Renaissance High School of the Arts, pianist at First Church of Christ, Scientist in Beverly Hills and sings 1st Soprano with the Pacific Chorale in Orange County. In addition to her musical endeavors, Miss Thompson is an experienced Polynesian dancer currently studying at Hālau Hula Ke 'Alohi 'O Ilikai under the tutelage of Kumu Hula Kapinao'kēhaulani Gabriel.
Andrew de Stackelberg
Coming soon.
Andrew Fong
Andrew Fong is a french hornist in the Orange County and LA areas performing throughout Southern California with Southland Wind Ensemble, South Bay Wind Ensemble and Liminal Voices and Orchestra. He has also played for various collegiate ensembles, studio recordings, and chamber ensembles.Andrew has had experiences orchestral hornist as well as an arts administrator and educator. As an arts administrator, he has done work and projects for groups such as Pacific Symphony, Gay Freedom Band of LA, and Liminal Voices and Orchestra. As an educator, he has worked with high school students to prepare them for extracurricular ensembles and future collegiate endeavors.
Anna Matuszczak
Anna Matuszczak is a classically trained violinist dedicated to the performance and preservation of orchestral and chamber music. She collaborates with several Southern California ensembles, including the Cabrillo Chamber Orchestra, Coronado Philharmonia, Poway Symphony Orchestra, and City Ballet Orchestra of San Diego. In addition to her orchestral work, she participates in recording sessions between Los Angeles and Orange County, performs chamber music, and occasionally appears as a soloist. Beyond performing, Ms. Mat maintains a private teaching studio, where she prepares students for auditions, performances, and music examinations. Her artistry is marked by a refined tone, expressive depth, and a strong commitment to musical excellence in both performance and education.
Antonina Styczeń
Antonina Styczeń is a versatile flutist, educator, and emerging scholar whose work bridges orchestral, contemporary, and cinematic music. She performs regularly as a substitute with the Pacific Symphony and is a current Fellow of the Aspen Contemporary Ensemble, where she collaborates with leading composers and conductors. Her playing can also be heard on the 2024 Latin Grammy–winning soundtrack, Pedro Osuna’s Cada Minuto Cuenta. A First Prize winner of the National Flute Association Young Artist Competition and recipient of numerous other awards, she brings artistry and innovation to every performance. Her album, Mieczysław Wajnberg: Works for Flute, received the German Critics’ Award, earning international acclaim for its expressive depth and technical mastery. At the University of Southern California, she serves as flute instructor and is pursuing her Doctor of Musical Arts in Flute Performance and Musicology. An accomplished private teacher, her students perform in top ensembles across Orange County and beyond. Dedicated to community and leadership, she is also the President of the San Diego Flute Guild, fostering artistic growth and connection among flutists of all levels.
Ben Margolis
Ben Margolis is a freshman violinist currently studying under Dr. Sakura Tsai at the University of Redlands Conservatory of Music. He recently graduated from Moorpark High School in 2025 and served as concertmaster of the school’s Concert Orchestra while studying under Summer Solo Symphony Workshop director/founder, Tamsen Beseke back at home outside of school since April 2024. At Redlands, Ben is a member of his university’s Symphony Orchestra and other musical opportunities on campus. He was a finalist of the High School Honors Performance Series String Orchestra at Carnegie Hall in 2024 (as a soloist and principal) and at the HPS Sydney Opera House debut in July 2025 (as a soloist). Additionally, he has performed regularly with the Conejo Valley Youth Orchestras (now known as the Lyceum Oaks Youth Orchestras). As concertmaster of the California State University Northridge Youth Philharmonic, he performed at Walt Disney Concert Hall shortly after his high school graduation. Outside of classical performance, Ben has worked as a pit musician, performing in musicals “Anastasia” (as assistant concertmaster “Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella” (as assistant concertmaster), and “Hadestown” (as concertmaster) at Moorpark High. He also played the saxophone in the jazz program at his high school where he worked and performed with major artists such as Gary Pratt, Adam Hersh, Jermaine Paul, and Julien Knowles. Ben hopes to continue being involved in more musical opportunities.
Bennett Imai
Bennett Kai Imai is an oboist, pedagogue, and composer. Bennett performed with the top ensembles, including as principal oboe, and actively collaborated in their chamber programs. He has performed with groups including the Whittier Symphony, Synesthesia Sinfonietta, Roudiki Orchestra, Tustin Ballet, California Young Artists Symphony, San Fernando Valley Symphony, Sequoia Symphony, Merced Symphony, and others. Bennett has performed in venues across Southern California, from Reseda to San Juan Capistrano, including the Walt Disney Concert Hall, YouTube Stadium, and Bandrika Studios. In addition, he played in Carnegie Hall with the El Camino College 2024 Symphony Orchestra and in Boston for the Longy School of Music’s Divergent 2022 Program, hosted by Loadbang.In addition to performing, Bennett enjoys privately teaching, coaching, composing, and producing music. Recent enjoyments include arranging music from video games for woodwind quintets and arranging anime and video game medleys for a large orchestra and choir.
Born and raised in Mission Viejo, Bennett received a Bachelor’s in Oboe Performance from the University of California - Santa Cruz, studying with Kyle Bruckmann, with a Minor in Electronic Music. He has been honored to perform Albinoni’s Concerto in D minor (Op. 2, No. 9) with the UCSC orchestra. He received his Master's in Music in oboe performance from the Bob Cole Conservatory of Music at CSU Long Beach, studying with Claire Brazeau.
Caleb Durant
Caleb Durant is a multi talented recording artist and musician. He has played French Horn professionally for nearly a decade, and is a graduate of the USC Thornton School of Music. He performs regularly in chamber groups and orchestras, and can be hear in many recordings and film soundtracks. Caleb also leads a successful career in Audio Engineering, and has produced and recorded a wide range of concerts and albums through his recording company, Caldur Productions.
Carmen Marquez
Carmen Marquez is a violinist, educator, and nationally recognized arts leader. She studied under Andrea Byers, a student of Ivan Galamian, and participated in masterclasses with Talich Quartet and world renowned violinist, James Buswell. Carmen earned her Master’s in violin performance from the Bob Cole Conservatory of Music.As an alum of Sphinx LEAD, a two-year fellowship aimed at developing the next executive leaders of color in the arts, Carmen attended professional development retreats at Juilliard, The Met, and Nashville Symphony, amongst others. She is the former Director of Education at Harmony Project where she developed program managers and left blueprints for artistic development, where programs are thriving.She is an avid performer with Synesthesia Sinfonietta and is developing the next generation of violinists at Rio Hondo College.
Caroline Reyes
Caroline Reyes is a freelance harpist in the Los Angeles and Orange County areas. She received her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in harp performance and ethnomusicology from the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, NY. A passionate educator as well as performer, Caroline currently serves on the faculty of the Herb Alpert Music Center at Los Angeles City College and has served on the faculties of Roberts Wesleyan College, the Eastman School of Music Summer Session, and the State University of New York, Fredonia. She has performed with many notable ensembles, including the Long Beach Symphony, Orchestra Santa Monica, Dream Orchestra, and the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra. As a soloist, Caroline has been featured in the Rochester Women in Music Festival, as a guest recitalist at the Eastman School of Music, and the Rochester Fringe Festival. When not playing or teaching the harp, Professor Reyes can be found performing with and teaching Balinese gamelan ensembles.
Catherine Baker
Catherine Baker is the principal flutist of the Bakersfield Symphony and Orchestra Santa Monica. She is established in Los Angeles as a versatile artist with projects spanning orchestral performance, studio recording, chamber music, education, and graphic design. Catherine was the First Place Winner of the 2018 Flute Society of Greater Philadelphia Young Artist Competition and the Second Place Winner of the 2019 National Flute Association Orchestral Audition and Masterclass Competition. As a founding member of the Cardinal Winds Quintet/Sextet, she competed in the 2015 Plowman Chamber Music Competition Finals in Columbia, Missouri; the 2015 Coleman Chamber Competition Finals in Pasadena, California; and the 2015 Fischoff National Chamber Music Association Competition Semi-finals in South Bend, Indiana. The group was honored to receive the Grand Prize at the 2015 Plowman Chamber Music Competition.Mrs. Baker previously held the principal flute chairs with the American Youth Symphony and the YMF Debut Orchestra, where she received the Special Recognition Award, earning a featured solo performance with the orchestra under the direction of Roger Kalia. Catherine has performed with ensembles throughout California including the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Pacific Symphony, Hollywood Chamber Orchestra, Modesto Symphony, Muse-ique, Riverside Philharmonic, San Bernardino Symphony, Santa Barbara Symphony and Redlands Symphony. Catherine’s artistry has also taken her nationally, performing with the New World Symphony in Florida, the Tanglewood Music Center in Massachusetts, and the South Dakota Symphony. Equally at home in the recording studio, Catherine has performed flute, piccolo, alto flute, and bass flute for numerous recording projects, including video games, documentaries, and short films. Mrs. Baker’s primary instructors include Jim Walker, Marianne Gedigian, Jennifer Keeney, Sydney Carlson, and Sandra Benke.
Chiara Solar
At age 8, Chiara began studying under Ms Joni Martin, the Second Chair Harpist in the Colorado Springs Symphony Orchestra. She received a music performance scholarship to continue studying the harp, first at Hope College in Holland, Michigan where she studied with Lorraine Alberts, and then to receive her Master’s Degree in Harp Performance from California State University at Long Beach. At Cal State Long Beach she studied under the renowned harpist Marcia Dickstein and performed her graduate harp recital “Harp-mageddon” at the Daniel Recital Hall.Since then Chiara Solar has been a sought-after soloist for weddings, High Teas, conferences, church services, funerals, private parties and media events, as well as performing with, The Southern California Philharmonic, and the Bellflower Symphony Orchestra, The Whittier Regional Symphony, The Orchestra Collective of Orange County, among others. Most recently, she played The Nutcracker with The Tustin Ballet. She is also an understanding and effective instructor, transferring her love and skill with this extraordinary instrument to students from eight to eighty.Check out her website www.chiaraocharp.comFacebook and Instagram @ChiaraSolarHarpist
Chloe Descher
Chloe Descher is a flutist and educator based in Los Angeles, CA. She is currently a fellow with the Civic Orchestra of Los Angeles and recently finished residency as the piccolo/3rd flute player with the California Young Artists’ Symphony. She has also performed with the San Bernardino Symphony, Downey Symphony Orchestra, American Youth Symphony, Genesis Opera Theatre, and more. She received her master’s degree in flute performance from the University of Southern California, studying with Catherine Ransom-Karoly, Associate Principal Flute of the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Chloe also received a bachelor’s degree in music from the University of Kansas, under the tutelage of Dr. Daniel Velasco.Chloe has performed at music festivals such as Rocky Ridge Music Center, Flauti al Castello, and the Sunflower Music Festival. She has also performed in masterclasses for renowned flutists such as Carol Wincenc, Leone Buyse, Paula Robison, Mark Sparks, and Amy Porter. In competition, Chloe received 3rd prize at the Flute Society of St. Louis’ Young Artist Competition, and was a semi-finalist for the Naftzger competition and San Diego Flute Guild Young Artists’ Competition. She can be heard on the American Youth Symphony’s recordings of Kris Bowers Violin Concerto, and on the University of Kansas Wind Ensemble’s Album “Freedom from Fear”.Chloe is a passionate teacher and has been teaching privately for seven years. She enjoys teaching both flute and piano lessons, and hopes to provide a meaningful and educational experience to all her students. In her free time, Chloe enjoys spending time at the beach, baking, and playing with her two cats, Oliver and Penny.
Chris Amaro
Chris Amaro is a freelance percussionist/drummer, K-12 music educator, and conductor from San Diego, California.Amaro has studied numerous mediums of percussion such as orchestral, drumset, hand and auxiliary, marching, and a variety of non-western music.Contracted professionally, Amaro has performed with numerous ensembles throughout the region of Southern California. Some of which includes the La Jolla Symphony & Chorus, Coronado Philharmonia, San Diego City Ballet, Finest City Musicians’ Alliance, and the Synesthesia Sinfonietta. Additional local involvement has been with Musicians’ Club of San Diego and fellow San Diego-based artists and bands. Amaro has also shared the stage with critically-acclaimed musicians such as Yandel (2025 Sinfónico Tour), and Aoife O’Donovan (2024 Tour).Passionate about education, Amaro has worked as an avid music educator throughout the greater Southern California region. Currently, he teaches as a percussion instructor for Rancho Bernardo High School and Ramona High School. Additional work includes Percussion Manager for the San Diego Civic Youth Orchestra. Amaro formerly was a Percussion Teaching Artist for the adjunct EXPO Center site between The Harmony Project & Youth Orchestra Los Angeles (YOLA).Educational background consists of a BA in Music from CSU Long Beach, and a Single-Subject Teaching Credential in Music from San Diego State University. Amaro is currently at SDSU as of Fall of 2025 pursuing a Masters Degree in Orchestral Conducting.
Chris Hornung
Chris Hornung is an active double bassist and teacher based in Orange County. He is the principal bass of the Dana Point Symphony and Symphony Irvine, and performs regularly with a number of other orchestras in the region. Chris is active as a chamber musician and solo recitalist, and has been featured twice as soloist with the Orange County Symphony. He is a faculty member at Concordia University Irvine, Orange Coast College, Chaffey College, Mira Costa College and Coastline College, where he is chair of the Visual and Performing Arts department. Chris also teaches bass sectionals at a number of local high schools and private students of all ages. Chris received his Bachelor of Music degree from Western Michigan University and his Master of Music degree from Michigan State University. In the summers he is a faculty member at Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp in Twin Lake MI, where he teaches double bass and Music History and performs as principal bass of the Festival Orchestra.
Dan Weiss
A Texas transplant now firmly rooted in Southern California, Dan Weiss has built a career performing, collaborating, and teaching bassoon to audiences of all ages. Based in San Diego, Dan appears regularly with symphonies, chamber ensembles, ballet and opera productions, and touring artists. His performances span everything from the La Jolla Symphony and San Diego City Ballet to concerts with Evanescence, Jason Mraz, Il Volo, and Lindsey Stirling. He has also joined full-orchestra productions for San Diego Comic-Con, including Batman (1989) and Sonic the Hedgehog.Dan is the founder and Artistic Director of the Left Coast Quintet, a wind ensemble known for bringing fresh, fun, and imaginative arrangements to life. As a music contractor, he connects top-tier musicians with corporate events, weddings, stage shows, and fundraisers throughout the region.Dan’s passion for music began early in Texas, where he first picked up the bassoon before adding saxophone and guitar to his repertoire. In high school, he served as principal bassoonist for the Gilbert & Sullivan Production Orchestra, competed at the state level, and attended summer programs at Texas Tech University and the Interlochen Arts Academy.In 2001, Dan moved to California’s Central Coast, performing with the San Luis Obispo Symphony, Music Academy of the West Festival Chamber Ensemble, and the Carmel Bach Festival. He was also a member of the San Luis Obispo Wind Quintet, performing at Festival Mozaic, the internationally renowned Mozart Festival.Today, Dan continues to share his love for classical music and his commitment to engaging, high-quality performance across Southern California and beyond. Whether on bassoon or contrabassoon, in a symphony hall or at an intimate event, Dan’s goal is always the same: to create memorable musical experiences that inspire and connect.
Daniel Apolonio
Filipino-American violinist and violist Daniel Apolonio is currently pursuing his M.M. at Cal State Long Beach under the tutelage of Moni Simeonov, and graduated from New York University with a B.M. in Violin Performance and a minor in Web Development, where he studied with Giora Schmidt and Gregory Fulkerson. An active orchestral musician, he has served as concertmaster of the New York University Orchestra for 3 seasons as well as the Bob Cole Conservatory of Music Symphony Orchestra. He is also a substitute musician with the New World Symphony, Santa Barbara Symphony, Culver City Symphony, and Santa Monica Symphony. He has performed in venues such as the James B. Duke House in Manhattan, Thayer Hall at Colburn, Harris Concert Hall in Aspen, and Gilles-Lefebvre Concert Hall in Québec, in addition to having collaborated with artists such as Nelson Padgett and Carlos Avila. He has played in masterclasses for artists such as Nathan Cole, Timothy Chooi, Haik Kazazyan, Stefan Jackiw, and David Kim. He has spent summers at Festival Napa Valley and the Aspen Music Festival. Previous awards include first place in the Southern California Philharmonic concerto competition and the preliminary round of the ASTA-LA solo competition, second place in the New York University concerto competition, and a full-scholarship to the Interlochen Summer Arts Academy. An alumnus of the Orange County School of the Arts, Daniel currently resides in Cerritos, California. Previous teachers include Cheri Hutchison Dierl, Sam Fischer, Cyrus Beroukhim, and Laurie Hamilton. Aside from violin, Daniel enjoys recreational weightlifting, playing basketball, and eating comfort food.
Daniel Hernandez
Daniel Hernandez is a freelance clarinetist and bass clarinetist based in Los Angeles and Orange County. Originally from Salinas, CA, he moved south in 2019 to pursue a career in music. He earned a B.M. in Music Performance from Cal State Fullerton in 2023, studying under Burt Hara, and an Artist Diploma in 2025 under Michael Yoshimi. He is currently pursuing an M.M. at the UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music with Boris Allakhverdyan.Daniel began freelancing in Southern California after joining the American Youth Symphony. He now performs with groups such as the Civic Orchestra of Los Angeles, Los Angeles Soundscape Orchestra, and the Monterey County Pops, and subs with the Santa Barbara Symphony and Quinteto Latino.He teaches clarinet, saxophone, and flute privately through programs like Harmony Project, and also leads beginning and intermediate ensembles in Downey. His long-term goal is to become a studio musician for film and music recordings.
Daniel Shaffer
Daniel is a Biola University alumnus, where he studied violin under Elizabeth Freeman and graduated Cum Laude with a B.A. in Music. Starting violin at age 4, music remains at the core of his many interests. He and his wife now reside in Lake Forest, where they create music in their home studio and enjoy exploring local hiking trails together.
Danielle Liu
Violinist Danielle Liu earned her B.M. in Violin Performance from Chapman University as a Temianka Violin Scholar and recipient of the Henri Temianka–Albert Saparoff violin. Her former violin instructors include William Fitzpatrick, Sam Fischer, and Eunhee Kim. She has been featured as a soloist with several orchestras, including the Pacific Symphony Orchestra; the
Pacific Symphony Youth Orchestra, as a two-time winner of its Concerto Competition; The Chapman Orchestra, as a winner of its Concerto Competition; the OC Music and Dance Chamber Orchestra; and the Crean Lutheran High School Orchestra.An active orchestral member since the fourth grade, Liu has served as Concertmistress of The Chapman Orchestra, Pacific Symphony Youth Orchestra, and Crean Lutheran High School Orchestra and Honors Orchestra. She has also performed in masterclasses with renowned artists Sarah Chang, Cho-Liang Lin, and Pinchas Zukerman. An artist experienced in a variety of
genres, Liu performed in concert with the veteran R&B and pop group Surface, whose hit “The First Time” reached #1 on the Billboard charts in 1990, as well as with the original multi-platinum, Grammy-nominated group AZ Yet. She regularly improvises on violin with the band at Calvary Chapel Golden Springs. Passionate about sharing her music, she has performed throughout Orange County and internationally in China, Costa Rica, Singapore, and Taiwan.Liu will graduate with her Doctor of Medicine from Loma Linda University School of Medicine in 2026. Alongside her studies, she has continued performing as an orchestral ringer with Orchestra Santa Monica, The Chapman Orchestra, the Concordia Symphony Orchestra, the Biola Symphony Orchestra, Amati Strings, and others. She currently works on staff with the Pacific Symphony Youth Ensembles, where she works administratively and musically with the Pacific Symphony Youth Quartet and the Pacific Symphony Youth Octet. An avid advocate for music education, she was one of the lead instructors of Chapman University’s inaugural Strings Instrumental Camp in 2025 and coaches the young musicians of Ivy Chamber Strings. Liu maintains a private studio of violin and piano students and performs as a freelance musician throughout Orange County and the Inland Empire.
Daphne Tsao
A native of Taiwan, Daphne Tsao began her musical training on piano at age 3, and on the Violin at age 7. When she was 9, she performed her television debut as the defending violinist champion on the Taiwanese show 5 Lights Award (similar to the US show “Star Search”). Since then, she has toured with orchestras throughout Japan, Singapore, Australia, the USA and Europe.Daphne is the winner and recipient of several awards and prizes, from organizations such as the Taiwanese Bureau of Art and Culture, the Southwestern Youth Music Festival, the International Young Music Festival and the Madelyn Serbin Scholarship.She earned her BA in Violin Performance from the Manhattan School of Music, has studied with Curtis Macomber and Arianna Bronne. Daphne was the recipient of a full scholarship and teaching assistantship from New York University, where she received her Master’s Degree in Violin Performance.Daphne has been a member of the violin section in the Manhattan Chamber Orchestra, the Uruek Symphony Orchestra, the Madison Symphony Orchestra, the Green Bay Symphony Orchestra, the Fox Valley Symphony Orchestra, the Dubuque Symphony Orchestra, the Rockford Symphony Orchestra, the Oshkosh Symphony Orchestra and the Water City Chamber Orchestra.She has played under the batons of leading conductors including Claudio Abbado, Kurt Masur, Leon Botstein, Zdenek Macal, Carl St. Clair, Yahja Lin and John Williams, and collaborated with a number of soloists including Lang Lang , Yuja Wang , Emanuel Ax, Yefim Bronfman, Jean Yves Thibaudet, Sarah Chang, Steve Isserlis, Wendy Warner, Cho-Liang Jimmy Lin, Nai-Yuan Hu, Nathan Cole, Lucia Micarelli, Nadia Sonnenberg, Regina Carter, Mark O’ Connor, Maxim Vengerov and Dawn Upshaw.She has performed in numerous venues in New York City, including the Stern Auditorium, Perlman Stage, Carnegie Hall, and Lincoln Center, as well as in Broadway and Off-Broadway theater productions such as Bright Star, Sweeney Todd, A Gentleman’s Guild to Love and Murder, Sunday in the Park with George, Mack and Mable, Shrek, The Wizard of Oz, Beauty and the Beast, Les Miserables, West Side Story, and Into the Woods, just to name a few.Well versed in all styles of music, Daphne has also performed in Los Angeles with the Kaleidoscope Chamber Orchestra in the Disney Concert Hall, with Googoosh in the Microsoft Theatre (formerly Nokia Theatre); with Moein in the Greek Theatre; Shawn Stockmen of Boyz II Men, Junho Son, Sohyun Kim, Eric Nam, actor Randall Park, Babyface at Disney Hall and with Singer Landy Wen and Lin You Chun in the Aria/MGM Chinese New Year Gala Concert.She can be found in various studios around Los Angeles such as the Village Recording Studio, the EastWest Studios, the Eastwood Scoring Stage, the Newman Scoring Stage, the Bridge Studio, the Westlake Studio, the Sony Pictures Scoring Stage and the Capital Records Studio with singer/ producer Alan Parson.Highlights for recording session work include films : “The Lord of the Rings”, “Inseparable” and Netflix show “Chef’s Table” and NBC prime time show “Days of Our Lives - Beyond Salem“.She also performed the American National Anthem for the Green Bay Packers of the NFL at the Lambeau Field Stadium and also in 2019 for Magic Johnson, she recorded for “The Super Bowl Today“ aired on CBS in the Eastwood Scoring Stage at Warner Bros. Studios. She played for the soundtrack and appeared in the last scene of the winner of the 96th Academy award for the Best Documentary Short Film: "The Last Repair Shop".
David Chang
Coming soon.
Davis Lerner
Davis Lerner is an active bassoonist, performer, and educator in Southern California, currently pursuing a DMA in bassoon performance at UCLA. He received his MM in bassoon performance from the UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music and a BA in Music from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. His principal teachers include John Steinmetz, Lisa Nauful, and Dr. Rebecca Rivera.At UCLA, Davis performs with the UCLA Philharmonia, Early Music Ensemble, and the Gluck Fellows program in the Odd Keys! Horn, Bassoon, and Piano Trio. He also performs with the California Young Artists Symphony and has made appearances with SLO Master Chorale, Orchestra Novo, the Lompoc Pops, Opera San Luis Obispo, and the SLO Symphony. He was a featured soloist in the Cal Poly Symphony’s Winter 2023 Solo Competition and received the Cal Poly Arts Service to the Arts Award. During his months away from school, he has attended Idyllwild Summer Arts and the Assisi Performing Arts Festival in Assisi, Italy.Davis is not only a passionate performer but also a dedicated teacher, having served as a teaching assistant for musicianship, music theory, and music history classes, as well as a coach to local middle and high school woodwind students, and as a private bassoon teacher. When not playing or teaching music, Davis enjoys reading, cooking, and exploring the outdoors.
Deniz Aktas
Deniz Aktas is a timpanist, percussionist, and composer whose work bridges the concert hall and the recording studio. A graduate of Berklee College of Music, where he studied Film Scoring and Percussion on a full- tuition scholarship and graduated summa cum laude, he has built an international career both as a performer and composer.As a performer, Aktas served as Principal Timpanist with the Izmir State Opera and Ballet and has appeared with leading Turkish orchestras including the Izmir, Antalya, Cukurova, Eskisehir, and Bursa State Symphonies. In the United States, he was Principal Timpanist of the Berklee Contemporary Symphony Orchestra and the Berklee Motion Picture Orchestra, performing at Boston Symphony Hall and Jordan Hall, and recording music composed and conducted by Thomas Newman and Harry Gregson-Williams.As a composer, he has received first place in the ScoreRelief 2021 International Film Scoring Competition, second place in the ScoreLive London Competition, and first place in the Sandy Hook Memorial Composition Competition, and continues to collaborate with Grammy- winning composer Penka Kouneva.Aktas has studied with Tim Genis, Martin Grubinger, and Nancy Zeltsman, and remains active as a performer, educator, and composer, dedicated to uniting orchestral performance with cinematic storytelling.
Derek Zimmerman
Coming soon.
Dianna Gray
Dianna C. Gray received her Bachelor of Music degree and teaching credential from Chapman University in 1989. She has been a string specialist in the Irvine Unified School District for 35 years. Each summer, she leads the advanced orchestra for the Irvine Public Schools Foundation’s highly successful summer school orchestra and band program. In 2002, Dianna was awarded Irvine Unified School District’s Fine Arts Music Teacher of the Year. In 2017, she was awarded the Orange County Arts Administrators Irene Shoepfle award for outstanding contributions to the arts in Orange County. Most recently, she was awarded the 2023 Veteran Teacher of the Year by The Southern School Band and Orchestra Association.As a music director, Dianna has been a guest conductor for the elementary, middle and high school honor orchestras of the Southern School Band and Orchestra Association and the Irvine and Capistrano Unified School District honor orchestras. From 2006-2012, she was the string coach for the Irvine Valley College Symphony.As a string clinician and coach, Dianna has led string workshops for various Orange County public school string programs, The Orange County Youth Symphony Orchestra, the California Music Educators Association and The Southern California School Band and Orchestra Association where she is regularly asked to present her string curriculum and methods.Despite her busy teaching career, Dianna has played as a freelance violinist in the Orange County and Los Angeles areas for 34 years. She has performed with the Chapman Symphony, the Capistrano Symphony, Saddleback Symphony and the Yorba Linda Symphony. She has performed for the La Mirada Theater, Saddleback Summer Stock Theater and the Laguna Beach Playhouse. In 1987, she performed for Pope John Paul the IInd’s visit to Los Angeles at Dodger’s Stadium. During Covid, Dianna was determined to keep the music going, and she created street concerts for neighbors, friends and family in a two-piece band with rock legend Paul Mars Black, former lead singer of of LA Guns. The concerts are still popular and she has continued to bring these rock and holiday concerts to her own neighborhood during the summer and Christmas season.In her free time, Dianna loves going to the beach with her family and friends, going to concerts, home decorating and gardening. Dianna has lived in the city of Laguna Niguel for 30 years with her husband Marcus and their son Sebastian.
Dmitry Pavlyuk
Clarinetist Dmitry Pavlyuk is an accomplished orchestral and chamber musician based in Mission Viejo, California. He earned his Bachelor of Music in Clarinet from the University of Washington, where he studied with William McCall (Professor of Clarinet, University of Washington). He also trained under distinguished clarinetists Chris Sereque (former Principal Clarinet, Seattle Symphony), David Chang (clarinetist, Pacific Symphony), and Sergey Nizkodub (Principal Clarinet, Kharkov Opera and
Philharmonic).Dmitry currently serves as Principal Clarinet of the Saddleback Symphony and Concertmaster of Vanguard University and Saddleback College Symphonic Wind Ensembles. He has previously held principal positions with both the Seattle Youth Symphony and the University of Washington Symphony Orchestra, performing an extensive range of orchestral repertoire under esteemed conductors.A prize-winning performer, Dmitry was the second-place winner in the Washington State High School Clarinet Competition and has also received awards in international clarinet competitions in Eastern Europe. Known for his refined tone, musical sensitivity, and technical command, Dmitry has performed extensively in symphonic, wind, and chamber settings across the West Coast. His artistry reflects a deep commitment to expressive performance, ensemble
collaboration, and musical excellence.
Domenico Hueso
Domenico Hueso is privileged to be actualized as a multi-faceted performer, improviser, composer and arranger. Nico’s passion for his art has lead him not only to different countries but also on musical endeavors embracing a myriad of genres; rock, pop, indie, flamenco, sea shanties, jazz, folk music, along with being a musical ambassador for the San Diego International Airport. As an entertainer Nico performs for centers for senior living, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park and corporate events. Nico collaborates with local and international musicians ranging from musical theatre, opera, to free form improvisation. His original compositions have been premiered at Institutions such as the USC Thornton School, along with musical arrangements for San Diego Unified School district and beyond. His artistry can been heard on KPBS, BBC public radio and Amazon Prime Video. His performing expertise extends beyond the violin and viola. Includes acoustic and electric guitar, electric bass, mandolin and on occasion church organ. More about Nico: https://www.nicohueso.com/
Eddy Lanois
Eddy Lanois is a classical trumpeter based in Los Angeles, CA. He recently completed his Master of Music degree at the New England Conservatory as a student of Benjamin Wright. Eddy also earned a Bachelor of Music degree at the USC Thornton School of Music, studying with Tom Hooten and Jennifer Marotta. Eddy's performance experience ranges from traditional orchestra and wind ensemble settings to theatre, ballet, and opera productions as well as film scoring sessions.During the summers he has had the opportunity to participate in intensive programs such as Eastern Music Festival, the National Brass Ensemble Academy, and the LAFCI Studio Intensive.Outside of trumpet, Eddy is interested in the ideas of productivity and self- improvement writers such as Cal Newport and Ryan Holiday, and how those ideas can be applied to life as a working musician. His other hobbies include watching anime, reading, and running.
Edward Pan
Edward Pan is a Taiwanese American violinist based in Los Angeles, known for blending classical artistry with a passion for cultural diversity and community connection. His performances have taken him around the world, from Varna International in Italy and International Chamber Music Alaska, to weddings and events in Cancún, Mexico, and recording projects for Beat On, London. He has also performed and recorded in Taipei and Hsinchu, Taiwan for family events, in Cologne, Germany for the VR startup Incantlas, and in Cambridge, UK with the band The Fourth Degree.Currently completing his Master’s degree at California State University, Northridge under Dr. Lorenz Gamma, Edward previously earned his Bachelor’s degree from California State University, Long Beach, where he studied with Dr. Sheng-Ching Hsu. He has also received mentorship from Dr. Brian Bak, Dr. David Garrett, and Philip Setzer of the Emerson String Quartet.Education and outreach are central to Edward’s mission as a musician. He teaches with Harmony Project, a nonprofit providing music education to underserved communities in Los Angeles, as well as through the Pasadena Youth Orchestra and La Habra Music Community. Beyond Harmony Project, he works with the Young Musicians Foundation, Evangelical Formosan Church of Arcadia, and Pasadena Unified School District’s after school programs. He also coaches strings at Dana Middle School and participates in Arcadia High School’s Summer Music Camp.Outside of music, Edward enjoys timelapse photography, videography, and travel. Previously he was also into dragon boat racing with the USC and Killer Guppies teams, continuing to find harmony between discipline, creativity, and adventure.
Elijah Parra
Elijah Parra is a 23 year old trombonist based in Southern California. He was born and raised in Lake Forest, CA, and attended Saddleback College and Cal State Long Beach. He is currently in school to complete his Bachelor’s in Brass Performance Studies. After playing for eleven years, he has studied with other trombonists such as Joey Sellers, Mike Hoffman, Steve Trepani, and Dillon McIntyre. Elijah is proficient across multiple music genres and has recorded and performed with artists such as Richard Niles, Symphony Irvine, and Jeff Jarvis. His style of playing ranges from orchestral to jazz and experimental noise rock. As a horn section member, he has performed with the Orange County Community Symphony Orchestra, CSULB Orchestra, and has performed with Symphony Irvine at the Richard Nixon Memorial Library and The Grove in Anaheim. Additionally, he has also plays trombone for the City of Tustin Musical in the Park and Musical Theater West’s production of “Hello Dolly!” Elijah also writes for jazz combos and occasionally small chamber groups. In 2024, his chamber group composition was read by the Brightwork Pierrot Ensemble. His jazz compositions can be heard in combo groups around Southern California and were featured in an LA Jazz Society Young Artist Showcase in 2025.
Emily Harrington
Emily Harrington is a flutist and teacher based in Southern California. She is currently the flute 3/piccolo fellow with Civic Orchestra of Los Angeles and has performed with Modesto Symphony, Juneau Symphony, California Young Artist Symphony, American Youth Symphony, San Diego Philharmonic, and Music Academy of the West Orchestra.Emily has appeared as a soloist with the Palomar Symphony Orchestra in W.A. Mozart’s Flute Concerto in G Major. She was awarded third place in the La Jolla Symphony Young Artist Competition. Her musicianship has also been recognized with awards such as the Thornton Scholarship, Sigma Alpha Iota Alumnae Chapter Scholarship, Bob Cole Scholarship, Ivie Wickam Scholarship, Neva May Pipes Endowment, and Palomar Performing Arts Scholarship. She is also an avid teacher and operates her own private studio, Harrington Flute Studio.She earned her Graduate Certificate at the University of Southern California where she studied with Catherine Karoly and Sarah Jackson. She also earned her Master of Music in flute performance at USC under the tutelage of Jim Walker. She received her Bachelor of Music from CSU Long Beach, where she studied with Dr. John Barcellona. Emily has also studied with Diana Morgan, Cynthia Ellis, and Jane Masur.
Emma Breen
Emma Breen is a teaching artist with both the Los Angeles Philharmonic and Youth Orchestra Los Angeles. Recent orchestral engagements include substitute appearances with the Santa Monica Symphony, Bakersfield Symphony, and Claremont Orchestra, among others.The first woman to win principal-trumpet in the American Youth Symphony, Emma's performance experience spans classical, contemporary, and commercial work, including contributions to Barbie: The Movie in Concert and an upcoming project with the Wu-Tang Clan. They have appeared as a soloist on screen and served as a brass consultant for feature films, bringing both artistry and adaptability to a variety of media.Emma holds degrees from Northwestern University (B.M.) and UCLA (M.M.), where she is currently pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts in Trumpet Performance. Principal teachers include David Bilger, Michael Sachs, Tom Rolfs, Jens Lindemann, and David Washburn.When not playing trumpet Emma can be found working in the Zamudio Cancer Research Lab and feeding a graduate school level caffeine addiction.
Emma Clausen
I grew up in a military family, so I moved around a bit, but started music in East Lyme, Connecticut, where I went to middle and high school. I studied with Jill Maurer Davis from 7th-12th grade, and in that time I competed in CMEA competitions such as Eastern Region and All States. Currently, I'm a Music Education and Music Therapy double major at Biola University, and spend a lot of time playing both flute and piccolo in ensembles throughout the year! I also now live with my family in Corona, CA! Outside of music, I really enjoy volleyball, traveling, and spending time with family and friends!
Emma Yim
Emma Yim recently graduated with a Master’s degree in Organ Performance from UCLA, where she studied under the guidance of Dr. Christoph Bull. As both an organist and a cellist, she is a passionate advocate for musical collaboration, frequently performing with musicians across Southern California in a wide range of orchestral, chamber, and operatic settings. Her performances have been featured at major music festivals and in venues such as Walt Disney Concert Hall and Royce Hall.She holds dual Bachelor’s degrees from UCLA in Organ Performance and Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology. During her undergraduate studies, a memorable highlight was her performance with the Youth Orchestra Los Angeles (YOLA), conducted by LA Phil’s Gustavo Dudamel, at the League of American Orchestras 2022 National Conference, where she performed on the iconic “french-fries” organ. She has also participated in interdisciplinary collaborations, including recording the single “Crazy” with the artist Wooli at EastWest Studios on cello.Emma has performed in masterclasses with distinguished organists George Ritchie and Jens Korndorfer, and continues to build a diverse performance portfolio around Southern California. Recent engagements include a solo recital on the Dobson organ at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels in the afternoon of June 4, 2025, which was described simply as ‘beautiful, just beautiful’ by the L.A. Times, capturing the profound impact of her artistry within the expansive cathedral space. Later that evening, she performed the Saint-Saëns Organ Symphony with the UCLA Symphony at Schoenberg Hall, a testament to her growing influence as a performer in the region.
Emmie Head
Emmie Head (she/her) is a PhD student in UCLA’s Department of Musicology. She holds a B.A. in music from St. Olaf College and an M.A. in musicology from UCLA. Emmie’s recent academic work has focused on the ways in which intellectual property policy and developing music technologies like AI challenge and complicate conceptions of musical ownership. Emmie’s dissertation project is poised to exist at the intersection of US intellectual property policy, artificial intelligence, and music making, asking how it is that regulatory powers such as the law or corporations directly impact the musical ecosystems of the country. Emmie has presented her work at the AMS Midwest chapter, the International Association for the Study of Popular Music, Music and the Moving Image, and the First International Conference on the Study of Music and AI in Stockholm.As a flutist, Emmie has performed with the St. Olaf College Band and the St. Olaf College Orchestra alongside her work offering flute lessons to students across the country who cannot afford them. Emmie has worked professionally in pit orchestra spaces and has studied with Dr. Catherine Ramirez and Diana Morgan.
Emily Davies
My name is Emily Davies and I play the oboe and English horn. I am a current student at the Bob Cole Conservatory of Music for oboe performance. I love playing for myself as well as teaching high school woodwind instrumentalists. I believe music is not just a universal language, but a universal phenomenon and I wish to share it.
Enzo Nigro
Raised by Brazilian immigrants in Aurora Illinois, Enzo Nigro is a double bassist with aspirations to one day perform as a member of a world class orchestra. Enzo currently studies with David Allen Moore at the University of Southern California’s Thornton School of music and he has experience performing in professional orchestras in northeast Ohio. Outside of music, Enzo enjoys cooking, bowling, and surfing.
Ethan Schneider
Ethan Schneider is an Orange County/Southern California-based Musician and Composer. Ethan graduated from Concordia University Irvine in 2025 with a degree in Music Composition. From 2023 to 2025, Ethan participated in Drum Corps International with The Battalion Drum and Bugle Corps based out of Salt Lake City, Utah, marching in their Battery, on tenor drums. Currently, Ethan works at Concordia University Irvine Music Department as their Orchestra Operations Manager, and sings bass with the Westminster Chorus, a barbershop chorus based out of La Mirada, CA.
Francis Krupa
Francis Krupa, a French Horn player from Warsaw who started his musical journey in 2009 as a student at a conservatory-like primary school in Poland with the emphasis in Horn performance.As he moved to Orange County in early 2016, he reoriented his musical interests towards a more professional path. Studying with teachers from the LA area, Jerry Garvin and Lisa Cherry, allowed him to attend the Orange School of the Arts between 2018 and 2019. During that time, he decided to pursue a music career, particularly focused in the area of performance. Working with Professor Christopher Russel helped him get on a firmly established path toward a music career in the upcoming years.From 2019 to 2023, he attended a music conservatory in his hometown, Warsaw. During that time, he studied with Kaz Machala, the first French Horn player in the history of the Juilliard School, to get his musical arts doctorate. Under his guidance, Francis built a successful career in Poland.He performed with the Lutoslawski Youth orchestra in Szczecin twice, won an Online International Music Competition held during the pandemic, participated in prestigious workshops and masterclasses across Poland (such as Corno Brass music festival in Zielona Gora), recorded two original compositions: “Shame Opera” and Concerto for an accordion as a project entering a competition held by the Polish Ministry of Culture and National Heritage, and worked on recording a short film soundtrack at the Polish Radio Studios in 2021.Aside from a French Horn career, Francis performed in the Czech Republic during a series of Choral Christmas concerts in 2020, competed in a Conservatory Choral overview project held by the Belgian Ministry of Culture, published an essay about music education in Poland in a magazine issued by the Polish Ministry of Culture and National Heritage.As a graduate of the Azusa Pacific University with his bachelor’s degree in performance, Francis is a section member of the California Young Artist Symphony, as well as a freelance musician in the LA area.Recently Francis had worked in a professional film scoring session at Sony Studios and recorded a film soundtrack to a 2024 Netflix production “Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F”.Being based in Los Angeles did not exclude him from playing a music festival in Great Britain during the summer of 2024 and 2025. He was invited to perform with the Amadeus Academy Orchestra and toured the southern part of England. In addition, Francis has performed as a principal horn with a prestigious artist agency Pro Musica, for a European film music tour for winter 2024-25 on the Principal Horn Position.
Gabby Baniqued
Gabby Baniqued is a music educator who actively plays horn within Southern California. She has helped establish a Band program at New Temple Elementary School in Valle Lindo School District since 2022. Outside of teaching, Gabby has performed in multiple ensembles such as Bellflower Symphony, Whittier Symphony, Los Angeles Brass Alliance, Synesthesia Sinfonietta, and Tonario.Gabby holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Instrumental Music Education along with a Single Subject Teaching Credential from California State University Long Beach.
Gabby Vivona
A Southern California native, Gabby is a graduate of California Baptist University with a Bachelor of Music in Instrumental Performance. In addition to playing clarinet, she also plays bass clarinet, alto saxophone, tenor saxophone, flute, and piccolo. Gabby aspires to play professionally in orchestras for the stage, screen, and pit. She held principal positions in the CBU Symphony Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, and the nationally recognized University Choir and Orchestra. She deepened her love for pit work through the many operas and musicals she performed throughout her tenure there. Through her participation in ensembles at CBU, Gabby has participated in recording sessions for both Tommy Walker and Semsen Music and has traveled with the CBU basketball teams to Las Vegas as a member of the pep band for the Western Athletic Conference four times. Named the 2024 Presser Scholar at CBU, she excelled both musically and academically. She was an inaugural member of the newly-formed Gold Wind Symphony, a professional-level wind ensemble in Eastvale, CA, and played with the group for two years. In her second year, she also joined the advisory board and served as the ensemble’s personnel manager. In 2024, Gabby served as Personnel Fellow with the National Repertory Orchestra for three months in Breckenridge, Colorado. Most recently, she was a clarinetist at the MasterWorks Festival and a recipient of the Richard Lambert Clarinet Scholarship. Gabby is currently based out of Lynchburg, Virginia where she attends Liberty University for a Master of Music Performance under Dr. Cassandra Hibbard. She was awarded a full graduate assistantship and plans to use the time to diversify her portfolio and travel for performances.
Gabriela Santillan
Gabriela Santillan is a dedicated cellist from Laguna Niguel, California, with nine years of intensive musical training and orchestral experience. She has pursued her studies at OC Music & Dance and Saddleback College and will continue her education at the California State University, Fullerton School of Music under Bongshin Ko. Her principal teachers include Chris McCarthy and Eddie Yue Chang, and currently studies with László Mëzo. She has additionally worked in masterclasses with distinguished artists such as Yoshika Masuda, David Garrett, Joon Sung Jun, Alexander Suleiman, Varty Manouelian, and Madalyn Parnas Möller.Gabriela has appeared in performances with the Saddleback Symphony Orchestra, Global Harmony Symphony, Orange County Community Symphony Orchestra, and served as principal cellist for her school district’s honor orchestras, SCSBOA and OC Lantern Festival Orchestra. She has also performed with the American Pops Orchestra for the 2025 38th Hispanic Heritage Awards in Washington, D.C. She has also participated in notable events including the CSUF Cello Fest and the Casa Romántica Music Festival & Academy. Gabriela is the Second Prize recipient of the Saddleback Concerto Competition and a scholarship awardee of the San Juan Capistrano Committee of the Orange County Philharmonic Society.In addition to her orchestral and academic work, Ms. Santillan is an independent Mexican regional vocalist and versatile performing artist. She is regularly engaged for both vocal and cello performances at weddings and private engagements throughout Southern California. Ms. Santillan also serves as a cello instructor at the Laguna Niguel School of Music and also maintains a private teaching studio. She remains committed to artistic excellence and to fostering the musical growth of the next generation of young cellists.Outside of her musical work, Gabriela enjoys cooking, spending time outdoors, and going on fishing trips. She maintains an active lifestyle through pilates classes and values activities that support balance, wellness, and creativity. In her free time, she also enjoys spending time with family and friends.
Garrett Levesque
Garrett Levesque is a violinist with over 20 years of playing experience. He got his start in Worcester in the public magnet schools. He performed in venues such as Mechanics Hall and Hanover Theater with artists ranging from Makayla Brown to Julie Andrews. Later in high school, in groups including the Worcester Youth Symphony, the Boston Youth Symphony, and district and all-state orchestra, he performed as an orchestral violinist and soloist at Symphony Hall, Sanders Theater, and Jordan Hall. He was selected as the associate principal second violin in the All-National Orchestra in Nashville Tennessee.In college, Garrett attended Cornell University and was a rotating principal player in the Symphony Orchestra which included tours to Ireland and Argentina with local professional orchestras. He participated extensively in chamber music at Cornell and during summers at Apple Hill Center for Chamber Music.He currently teaches a studio of students from as young as 4 years old to adult amateur violinists. He is a first violinist and serves as treasurer for Orchestra NOVA LA. He holds a degree in Chemistry and Chemical Biology and works on training AI models in chemistry and bio in addition to his teaching role.
Garrett Walker
Garrett Walker is a clarinetist based in Southern California. In the past, he has been seen playing 2nd clarinet and bass clarinetist for the Huntington Beach Symphony, as well as various musicals. Currently, he is the bass clarinetist for the Bob Cole Symphony Orchestra, acted as Principal Clarinet for the Bob Cole Opera Orchestra, and is a section member for the Bob Cole Wind Symphony. He is also the bass clarinetist for the University Reed Quintet at CSULB.Garrett is an undergraduate student at California State University, Long Beach and is currently working towards degrees in both Clarinet Performance and Music Education. His primary teachers include Helen Goode-Castro and Julian Rymar.
Gina Buzzelli
A native of Bowling Green, OH, Gina Buzzelli is a freelance musician based in Los Angeles. She is currently a Violin Teaching Artist for YOLA (Youth Orchestra Los Angeles) at Inglewood. Gina holds a Masters degree and a Graduate Certificate in violin performance from the University of Northern Colorado. At Ball State University she earned a BM in violin performance and was the recipient of the Presidential Scholarship in the Arts as well as the Presidential Academic Scholarship. Gina has had the opportunity to perform in masterclasses with artists such as Hilary Hahn, Felix Olschofka, Simon Roland-Jones, St. Martin in the Fields Chamber Orchestra, and Trio Solis. During the summers she has participated in numerous orchestral festivals including the National Repertory Orchestra, Round Top Festival Institute, Eastern Music Festival (as a student in 2013 and a string fellow in 2018), and the International Lyric Academy Opera Festival in Viterbo, Italy. She had the pleasure of sitting concertmaster for the Taneycomo Festival Orchestra for their 2025 season. In addition to being classically trained, Gina has pursued other genres participating in jazz combos at both Ball State University and the University of Northern Colorado, and has attended the Jamey Aebersold Summer Jazz Workshop, Mark O’Connor Fiddle Camp, and Blue Ridge Fiddle Camp. Furthermore, in May of 2015 she was a featured soloist with BSU’s top jazz band on their European Tour and is a founding member of the All Angles Orchestra and Dynamix String Quartet.
Gina Caviar
Coming soon.
Grace Lee
Coming soon.
Greg Ozment
Greg Ozment is a dynamic percussionist and multi-instrumentalist whose performances bring energy, precision, and heart to every stage. Since 2011, he has captivated audiences across Southern California and is now in his seventh season as Principal Percussionist with the Southern California Philharmonic. His versatility has also led him to perform with the La Mirada Symphony, Palos Verdes Regional Symphony, Dana Point Symphony, Whittier Regional Symphony, and the Huntington Beach Symphony.Beyond the concert hall, Greg shares his musical gifts as a vocalist and church musician at St. Cecilia Catholic Church in Tustin, and has appeared in beloved musical theatre productions including Hairspray and Legally Blonde.Dedicated to giving back through education, Greg serves as adjunct faculty in music appreciation for older adults with Santiago Canyon College, Santa Ana College, and North Orange Continuing Education, inspiring students to connect with the joy of music at every age.
Gregory Barnes
Gregory Barnes is a Southern California-based tubist and music educator currently in his third year of undergraduate study in Music Education at California State University, Fullerton. He serves as the principal tubist for the CSUF University Symphonic Winds under the direction of Dr. Gregory Whitmore, where he has performed in a variety of high-profile engagements, including world premieres and a featured performance at the SCSBOA All-Southern Conference. In addition to his work with the University Symphonic Winds, Gregory has also performed with the University Wind Symphony and the CSUF Tuba and Euphonium Ensemble, showcasing his versatility and commitment to the craft of low brass performance.Gregory’s performance experience extends into the world of drum corps, having marched three seasons, two with The Cavaliers Drum and Bugle Corps and one with Gold Drum and Bugle Corps. This background has further fueled his passion for music education, particularly in both the marching arts and concert settings. Dedicated to fostering musical excellence, Gregory continues to pursue opportunities that blend performance and pedagogy in meaningful ways.Gregory is also a dedicated educator throughout Orange County, with extensive experience teaching in both concert and marching settings. He has served as the brass coach for Bellflower High School’s marching band and as the low brass coach for the Pacific Symphony Youth Wind Ensemble, helping students refine their technique and ensemble performance. In addition to these positions, Gregory maintains an active schedule of freelance teaching, offering private lessons and leading sectionals for various student ensembles.
Henry Mock
Henry Mock is currently a graduate student in his second year of master’s degree at the University of Southern California, where he studies with Shawn Mouser, former associate principal bassoonist of the Los Angeles Philharmonic. As an active musician outside of school, Henry has experiences performing with various orchestras such as the American Youth Symphony, California Young Artists Symphony, Pacific Symphony, and the Brevard Music Center Orchestra. Throughout his career, he has had opportunities to play under conductors such as Leonard Slatkin, Keith Lockhart, Carl St. Clair, Teddy Abrams, and Andrew Gram, and has shared the stage with numerous soloists, including Yuja Wang.As a soloist, Henry has won the Bellflower Symphony Orchestra Young Artists Concerto Competition and has performed the Mozart bassoon concerto. As a chamber musician, Henry was the member of the University Wind Quintet at California State University Long Beach where he earned his bachelor’s degree in bassoon performance under the tutelage of Michele Grego, second bassoonist of the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Currently, Henry actively plays with the Fine Winds quintet, performing in various venues throughout southern California.Henry is also a passionate educator and has spent a lot of his time teaching and coaching, working with groups such as the South Coast Youth Symphony Orchestra as the winds coach. Under his mentorship, Henry’s students have held positions in the Pacific Symphony Youth Orchestra and the Colburn Youth Wind Ensemble and have been accepted into prestigious schools such as San Francisco Conservatory of Music, Peabody Institute, New York University, Oberlin Conservatory, Boston Conservatory at Berklee, and Indiana University.
Hiroshi Ikeda
Hiroshi Ikeda has pursued his undergraduate studies in Clarinet Performance from the Bob Cole Conservatory of Music at California State University, Long Beach. There, he has studied with Helen Goode-Castro, Michael Grego, and Deborah Carnahan. At the Cole Conservatory, Hiroshi performed with the Wind Symphony, which the group has been featured as one of the showcase ensembles for the College Band Directors National Association (CBDNA) Convention and the New York Band Association Festival at Carnegie Hall. He was also a member of the Symphony Orchestra and was selected as a soloist performing Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto in the first collaborative concert with the University’s Department of Dance.Hiroshi has spent summers at the Buffet Crampon Academy, Eastern Music Festival, and Round Top Music Festival. There, he has studied with reputable clarinetists such as Stanley Drucker, Dan Gilbert, Eugene Mondie, Ixi Chen, Gregory Raden, Andre Moisan, Jonathan Gunn, Hakan Rosengren, and Yehuda Gilad.Hiroshi is currently co-principal clarinet for the Palos Verdes Regional Symphony Orchestra, principal clarinet for the Huntington Beach Symphony Orchestra, and second clarinet for the California Millennial Choirs & Orchestra. He also serves as a substitute for various regional orchestras in Southern California. Mr. Ikeda teaches clarinet privately in the South Bay & Long Beach areas. His students have successfully auditioned into top groups at their respective school band/orchestra, Youth Orchestra Los Angeles (YOLA), Pacific Symphony Youth Orchestra (PSYO), and All-Southern Honor Bands (SCSBOA).On his spare time, Hiroshi plays soccer recreationally, actively participates in community activities with Soka Gakkai International and SoCal Asian Interactive, and checking out local eateries.
Holly Knoch
Holly Knoch is a violinist from Dallas, Texas, based in Los Angeles.She has most recently studied under the tutelage of Andrew McIntosh at the California Institute of the Arts, during which she received both modern and baroque violin instruction.Holly works in the LA area as a freelancer, improviser, arranger and teacher. She has played with many orchestras including the Galveston Symphony Orchestra, the American Youth Symphony, and has been part of collaborations with REDCAT. She currently plays with Los Angeles Baroque as their Concert Associate on baroque violin.Holly holds a Masters of Music for violin performance from the California Institute of the Arts and a Bachelor of Music for violin performance from the University of Houston.
Hui Cao
Violinist Hui Cao is an accomplished performer whose artistry has taken him across China, Europe, and the United States. He currently serves as a substitute violinist with the Seattle Symphony Orchestra and has held section positions with the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, Virginia Symphony Orchestra, and Spokane Symphony Orchestra.A native of Shanghai, Hui earned his Bachelor of Performing Arts from the Shanghai Conservatory of Music, following his studies at the Music Middle School Affiliated to the Shanghai Conservatory of Music. He has performed extensively throughout Asia, serving as Concertmaster of the Macau Foundation Orchestra, First Violinist with the Macau Orchestra, and as a member of the Asia Youth Symphony Orchestra. His international experience includes performing as a guest violinist with the Gävle Symphony Orchestra in Sweden.Hui has distinguished himself in numerous orchestral auditions, reaching the final round with both the National Symphony Orchestra (June 2019) and the San Francisco Ballet Orchestra (April 2019). He was also a winner of the Bach Competition at the Shanghai Conservatory of Music and a participant in the David Kim Orchestra Institute (DKOI).Throughout his career, Hui has studied and worked with many esteemed violinists and mentors, including David Kim, Nathan Cole, Lisa-Beth Lambert, Wang Bin, Li Weigang, and Zhang Zhenzha, whose guidance has helped shape his expressive and refined musicianship.
Hyunji Yi
A native of Seoul, South Korea, Los Angeles based cellist Hyunji Evonne Yi is an active performer and music educator. As a recitalist, chamber musician and orchestral musician, she has appeared in concert venues across the United States, Germany and Korea.She has enjoyed performing for a wide range of genres including pop music. She appeared on the Ellen Degeneres show accompanying the band Bastille in their hit song, “Flaws”. She also appears in their music videos “Warmth” and “Good Grief”, shot and recorded live at Capitol Records. The recording she did for Bryan Lanning’s new album “Us” landed #2 spot in the iTunes Pop Charts in the U.S. She has also performed live with Dan Nyugen as well as performing for various artists on the Vietnamese Show, Paris by Night. In addition she has performed with the artist Niki as part of 88 rising’s set at Coachella. Most recently she was part of “Queen Bridgerton’s Orchestra” for the west coast Netflix premiere of Queen Charlotte.As a soloist Hyunji has received first place in many competitions including the Greater Los Angeles Regional ASTA competition, Greater Los Angeles Bach Complete Works Competition, and Rotary District Music Competition. She was a recipient of the National School Orchestra Association Orchestra Award and as a member of the Haust Duo she advanced to the final round of the Chamber Music Competition (CMC). In 2014 she made her debut at the Carpenter’s Performing Arts center performing Tchaikovsky’s Rococo Variations with the Bob Cole Conservatory Symphony Orchestra. In 2016 she was the recipient of the Zeisl Scholarship at the Scripps College SoCal Chamber Music Program where she had the opportunity to work closely with the Enso Quartet and Horszowski Trio.Additional training includes fellowships in 2017, to attend the Eastman Cello Institute where she studied with Alan Harris; in 2018, as a string fellow to the Colorado College Music Festival as well as receiving an invitation to the Boston Music Institute’s 12-hour Masterclass with Martin Lohr at the Berlin Phil Concert Hall and with Blaise Dejardin at the Boston Symphony Hall. Furthermore, she was also accepted to the San Francisco Orchestra Academy Orchestra Diploma program for the 2018-2019 year. Throughout the years she has also had the chance to perform in masterclasses and work with Robert DeMaine, TaoNi, Johannes Moser, Daniel Rothmuller, Astrid Schween and Alan Harris. She has studied privately with Dorothy Muggeridge, Andrew Shulman and Joon-Sung Jun.As an orchestral musician, Hyunji has also performed with many ensembles under the baton of Ron Leonard, Carl St. Clair, Alexander Treger, Johannes Muller-Stosch, and Carlos Izcaray including USC Symphony, Orchestra Da Camera at the Colburn School of Arts, Colburn Chamber Orchestra, Corelli Ensemble, Bob Cole Symphony Orchestra, Young Artists Symphony Orchestra and the American Youth Symphony. In 2015 she was a founding member of the Oceanside String Quartet, one of the most sought-after Orange County based ensembles.In addition to performing, Hyunji has extensive teaching experience of over 14 years. Currently, as a member of the Music Teachers Association of California, she teaches in the greater Los Angeles area as a private cello instructor and string coach. She has taught at Tustin Music Center, the Concert Music School as well as adjudicating and coaching at Millikan High School each year. She has been a cello instructor at Renaissance Arts Academy, an award-winning charter school as well as the cello instructor at Oxford Academy, the number one ranked high school in California. In addition Hyunji is currently an adjunct cello professor at Santa Ana College.Her private students have gone on to win positions in the Colburn Chamber Honors Program, Los Angeles Youth Philharmonic Orchestra, Los Angeles Metropolitan Youth Orchestra, Young Artist Orchestra of Los Angeles, Ntyme Orchestra, Palos Verdes Regional Orchestra, Westside Youth Orchestra and Asia America Youth Symphony Orchestra. They have been accepted on full and partial scholarships to the Interlochen Summer Academy, Montecito Music Festival, Irvine Music Festival as well as passing with honors from the Certificate of Merit Program including being chosen as Panel finalists and Convention performers. They have won first prizes in competitions including Grand Virtuoso International Competition, Irvine Conservatory International Music Competition, Opus International Music Competition, SYMF, VOCE, Regional Bach Festival and Bach Complete Works Audition. Her students have gone on to attend Stanford University, Brown University, Cleveland Institute of Music, UC Berkeley, UCLA, USC and UC Irvine.Hyunji attended the University of Southern California and began to further her musical studies at the Bob Cole Conservatory of Music where she graduated with a Bachelor of Music and Master of Music Degree as a Cole Scholar and Distinguished Graduate Honoree under the guidance of Professor Joon-Sung Jun. She was the recipient of the prestigious Richard E. Baker Scholarship and was chosen to be in the University String Quartet as well as being the graduate Teaching Assistant at the Conservatory.Hyunji is a strong proponent of using music as a means to give back to the community. As a result, she enjoys bringing solo and chamber music to hospitals and senior care centers around the greater Los Angeles area. She is also a member of Amici Concert Artists (ACA), a nonprofit concert organization seeking to positively impact the local and global community through the performing arts.Hyunji performs on a 2018 Mauer-Zhao modern cello made in Lakewood, CA
Irene Kang
Coming soon.
James Keene
James Keene is a Los Angeles based versatile soloist, chamber musician, and music pedagogue.Originally from the Caribbean, at age 14 James’s family moved to the Philadelphia, PA area where he quickly joined the Philadelphia Youth Orchestra and was immediately promoted to Co-Concertmaster during the first rehearsal by the conductor, Joseph Primavera.In 2004 James was admitted as a scholarship recipient at Interlochen Arts Academy. There, he studied with Hal Grossman and was first violinist in the arts high school’s flagship string quartet, the Hemingway String Quartet. As a member of this ensemble, James performed numerous concerts throughout the Midwest, including in Chicago, Detroit, and Grand Rapids. The quartet also performed a live, televised performance on ABC Chicago’s Good Morning America.James then attended Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University, where he studied with Todd Phillips, Catherine Cho, and Lenuta Ciulei. As a scholarship student at Mason Gross, James traveled to Spain with Peter Nero and the Philly Pops and served as co-concertmaster.James later received the Presidential Scholarship from San Francisco Conservatory, where he studied with Wei-He. During this time, he served as violinist in the Reno Philharmonic, the Merced Symphony, and the Mendocino Music Festival.In the present, James appears regularly with the New Haven Symphony in Connecticut, the Philly Pops, the Mann Center Orchestra, the New Brunswick Chamber Orchestra, and is known in the New York metropolitan area as a performer and teacher. Throughout his career he has played solo, chamber, and orchestral performances for audiences throughout China, Italy, Spain, Austria, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, and the USA. He is an active festival musician, and appears regularly with the Trinity Alps Chamber Music Festival, the Pikes Falls Chamber Music Festival, the Gateways Music Festival, and the Colour of Music Festival, where he has served as concertmaster. As co-founder of the Southwest Chamber Music Festival, which will be entering its 5th season in 2026, he also performs regularly in New Mexico.He was the recipient of the 1st place award at the Russel Johnson Strings Competition in Philadelphia, PA and has shared the Carnegie Hall stage with Dionne Warwick. He has also engaged in live and recorded collaborations with Jay-Z, Vanessa Williams, The Who, and Andrea Bocelli.
James Sherry
Trumpet soloist and composer James Sherry is a musician living in Southern California. James Sherry directed instrumental music programs at The Johns Hopkins University, University of Dubuque (Iowa), and Mahidol University College of Music in Thailand. In Asia, his institution hosted the World Saxophone Congress, the International Trumpet Guild Conference, the Asian Symphonic Band Festival, which he adjudicated in 2004 and 2005, and the Southeast Asian Youth Orchestra and Wind Ensemble (SAYOWE), where he was the Music Director of the SAYOWE All-Nations Ensemble, comprised of young professional musicians from Singapore, Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Myanmar.An active clinician, Dr. Sherry has organized and presented successful workshops with hundreds of high schools and colleges and traveled as a clinician for Community Concerts, a subsidiary of Columbia Artists Management Incorporated, New York, and Young Audiences of Washington, DC. Dr. Sherry’s dissertation, entitled The New York Brass Quintet (1954-1985): Pioneers of Brass Chamber Music, is cited in three scholarly texts.Dr. Sherry, an instructor at Santa Ana College, previously taught in the Baltimore, Long Beach, Chicago, and Santa Ana public schools. His band received the top prize in the Chicago band festival. He was the coordinator and Music Director of the Baltimore School for the Arts TWIGS Band and conducted the Chicago Meritfest Honor Band in performance in the Chicago Symphony Center Orchestra Hall. He has worked with honor bands across the US and directed the University of Iowa Johnson County Landmark Jazz Ensemble in the 45th Annual Band Extravaganza in Carver-Hawkeye Arena.James received commendations for community service from Bronx Borough President Fernando Ferrer and the police chiefs of Baltimore and Washington, DC. Dr. Sherry began his career as a community organizer with at-risk youth in New York City and worked for a decade as a performing artist and music educator in Baltimore, Washington, DC, and Chicago.As a trumpet player, he has been featured throughout the US, including solo performances at Idyllwild Arts Academy, the Baltimore’s Artscape Festival, Maryland Institute for the Creative Arts (MICA), Peggy and Yale Gordon Trust Concert Series, the Foxboro Orpheum Theater in Boston, the National Jazz Park in New Orleans, the Kennedy Center, and hundreds of schools and colleges around the world, including residencies at Vietnam’s Hanoi Conservatory and in Alberta and Ontario, Canada. He was the First Prize winner at the Baltimore Chamber Music Competition with the Lyric Brass, as well as the First Prize winner in the “Catch A Rising Stars” Competition in Fairfax, Virginia. He has performed as principal trumpet with the Bay Atlantic Symphony (New Jersey), Columbia Pro Cantare (Maryland), Thailand Philharmonic, and the Peninsula Symphony (California), and as lead trumpet or jazz soloist with Slide Hampton, Buck Hill, the Russ Morgan Orchestra, and the Bob Hope Show.He now performs in the Greater Los Angeles Region with the Peninsula Symphony, Whittier Symphony, Shiri and the Shiribims Klezmer Band, Chicago Tribute Experience, and several jazz ensembles. He earned music degrees from Yale University and the Longy School of Music, and a doctorate from the Peabody Conservatory. His teachers include William Vacchiano, Allan Dean, Ed Hoffman, Langston Fitzgerald, Amy Schendel, and Chris Still. He lives with his wife and musical partner, Dr. Bang Lang Do, in Orange County, California.
Jane Levy
Jane Levy began her cello instruction with Elaine Armstrong in Long Beach at the age of seven. She formed her own String Quartet in high school and continues to play with a quartet called the "Enchanted Strings" doing parties, special events as well as special occasions.While in high school she toured Europe performing with the Orange County Youth Symphony and upon graduation from high school received a full music scholarship to Chapman University where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Liberal Arts and studied with Dr. Margerie Enix and Ian McKinnel. With the Chapman Chamber Orchestra she performed in China, Hawaii, Europe and toured both the East and West coasts of the United States.After graduation, she set up her own studio in Fountain Valley and began teaching private lessons. She continues to perform with her quartet "The Enchanted Strings" and her newest adventure includes a baby lullaby CD which she produced, wrote, and performed solo. The CD can be found at her website www.cellobyes.com.
Janine Lai
Coming soon.
Jasmine Kim
Jasmine Kim is a freelance violinist and self-started music entrepreneur. Jasmine performs in a variety of settings and is a teacher and coach to students of all ages. Based in Orange County, Jasmine plays primarily throughout Los Angeles and OC areas, but has also played out of state. Jasmine received her Bachelor’s in Music Performance at the Bob Cole Conservatory in California State University, Long Beach in 2014, studying alongside pedagogue Linda Rose, and formerly studying with Elizabeth Baker, former director of the Taos Music School and Los Angeles Philharmonic First Violinist. Jasmine was also coached by Stacy Wetzel, current first violinist in the LA Phil. She is currently a first violinist in the San Gabriel Valley Symphony Orchestra and is a wedding musician all throughout California. She loves her dog Hunter, collectibles, and crafting.
Jay Maldonado
Coming soon.
Jefferson Martins
Coming soon.
Jeocelyn Ramirez
Hi, I’m Jeocelyn Ramirez. I’ve been playing the violin for over ten years, beginning my musical journey in elementary school, where I first discovered my passion for music. Since then, I’ve performed in school, church, and community ensembles, and I’m excited to now be part of the South Orange County Orchestra. I recently graduated from Vanguard University with a degree in Kinesiology and am working toward becoming a physical therapist. Outside of music, I enjoy spending time with family, staying active, and finding meaningful ways to connect with others in my community.
Joe Mora
Joe Mora is a professional tuba player located in Southern California. He performs with various orchestras in the region and regularly performs with multiple bands at the Disneyland Resort. He studied in Chicago with the prolific tubist, Gene Pokorny of The Chicago Symphony. He has toured Japan in the 2024 production of “Blast!” and is well versed in both Classical, Jazz and Commercial Music.
Johnathan Lin
Hailing from San Diego, California, Jonathan Lin has been a passionate cellist since the age of nine. His formal education in cello performance began with a bachelor's degree from the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, where he studied under Dr. William Grubb and graduated in 2018. He continued his advanced studies at the Manhattan School of Music, earning a Master of Music degree in 2020 with Professor Philippe Muller. Furthering his expertise, Jonathan obtained a Graduate Certificate from the University of Southern California's Thornton School of Music in 2022, studying with Professor Andrew Shulman.During the COVID-19 pandemic, Jonathan expanded his musical horizons through private studies with Robert Demaine and Ronald Leonard. In 2024, he had the privilege of working with Richard Aaron at the Aspen Music Festival. His previous teachers include esteemed artists such as Joon Sung Jun and Yao Zhao.Jonathan's dedication to his craft is evident in his participation in master classes with renowned musicians including Yehuda Hanani, Adriana Contino, Brooklyn Rider Quartet, Robert Demaine, Brinton Smith, Lynn Harrell, Johannes Moser, Hans Jorgen Jensen, Ani Kavafian, and Steven Isserlis. He has also benefited from the guidance of Timothy Eddy, Amit Peled, Michel Strauss, Andres Diaz, Anne Williams, Minji Kim, Tom Landschoot, John Walz, and Alan Rafferty.His chamber music coaching has included instruction from members of the American String Quartet, Ariel String Quartet, Borromeo String Quartet, as well as distinguished musicians such as Ko Iwasaki, Richard Slavich, Nicholas Mann, Jeffrey Irvine, the Shanghai Quartet, Yura Lee, and Ralph Kirshbaum.Jonathan's festival experiences are extensive, having participated in the Idyllwild Summer Music Festival, Montecito International Music Festival, Madeline Island Chamber Music, Heifetz International Music Institute, Josef Gingold Chamber Music Festival, Festival MusicAlp, Orford Music Academy, Domaine Forget, and the Aspen Music Festival.An accomplished performer, Jonathan has garnered numerous accolades, including 2nd Prize at CCM’s Undergraduate Instrumental (Baur) Competition in 2016, Musical Merit Foundation of Greater San Diego Competition Scholarships in 2017 and 2021, 2nd Prize in the Strings Division of San Diego's Music Scholarship Council Competition in 2021, Best Contemporary Piece Performance prize at the 2022 La Jolla Young Artist Competition, and 1st Prize in the USC Thornton School of Music's Solo Bach Competition in 2024. He was also a recipient of the CCM’s Werner Scholarship in 2018.Jonathan’s orchestral experience includes serving as the principal cellist for the San Diego Civic Youth Orchestra, with notable performances such as the Side-By-Side concerts with the San Diego Symphony in 2013 and 2014. Additionally, he was a member of the Music For All’s Honor Orchestra of America in 2014.Currently, Jonathan is a substitute cellist with the Los Angeles Philharmonic and the New World Symphony and held the position of Principal Cellist with the California Young Artists Symphony from 2022 to 2024.
Jose Moreno
Jose Moreno is an active musician based In Southern California, performing throughout Orange County, Los Angeles, and the Inland Empire. He holds a degree in Music Education and currently works as a woodwind technician for the Eastman Music Company. A dedicated woodwind doubler, Jose performs with orchestras, wind ensembles, and a variety of Latin groups. He is also a member of the Los Angeles Clarinet choir, where he serves as the Contrabass Clarinetist.
Josh Olson
Josh Olson is a freelance horn player based in Los Angeles, currently performing with the San Gabriel Valley Symphony. He has played with the California Young Artists Symphony, Springfield Symphony Orchestra, and in productions including Mary Poppins, The Little Mermaid, and The Nutcracker. He performs with the Los Angeles Brass Alliance and has recorded with The Studio Intensive Orchestra and various film projects at CSU Long Beach.Josh holds a Master of Music in Horn Performance from California State University, Long Beach, and a Bachelor of Music from Missouri State University. His primary teachers include Dylan Hart, Jenny Kim, and Rebecca Moody.
Josia Sulaiman
Josia Sulaiman is a double bassist based in Los Angeles. He received a Bachelor's in Music Performance from Cal State University, Fullerton where he studied with Brian Johnson (LA Phil). He is currently pursuing a Masters in Music at the USC Thornton School of Music studying with David Allen Moore (LA Phil).Sulaiman has performed in several festivals and pre professional orchestras such as Aspen Music Festival, American Youth Symphony, Civic Orchestra of Los Angeles, and Carnegie Hall's National Youth Orchestra. He currently performs as a substitute for the Los Angeles Philharmonic and does extensive freelance work.
Julian Pulido
I was born and raised in Los Angeles,CA. Attended Hamilton High School Academy of Music in Los Angeles. I studied with Terry Cravens at USC and graduated from the Oberlin College Conservatory of Music where I was a Trombone performance (studying under Milton Stevens and James Desano) and Law and Society major. I was an officer in the United States Marine Corps where I had the privilege of playing and performing with the III MEF band while stationed in Okinawa, Japan. I am a member and perform regularly with the Los Angeles Symphonic Winds, Millennial Choir Orchestra of California, Redlands University Chamber Orchestra at venues such as Disney Hall, Dolby Theatre and Segerstrom Hall. Music has always been a passion of mine and has driven me to succeed in all aspects of my life.
Kai Lee
Born and raised in Hong Kong, Kai Lee began studying music performance at the age of three. He attended the International Christian Quality Music Secondary and Primary School in Hong Kong for 11 years, where he was selected for the music elite program and regularly performed as a soloist and chamber musician. In addition to his primary focus on piano, Kai minored in bassoon andearned ABRSM Grade 7 certification from the Royal Schools of Music in 2018. He served as the principal bassoonist in the school orchestra and actively participated in local competitions, including the Hong Kong School Music Festival. He also earned the Associate Diploma in Piano Performance (ATCL) from Trinity College London and was a prizewinner in the 6th Hong Kong Asia-Pacific Youth Piano Competition in the Chopin B and Sonata categories. Kai recently graduated from Biola University with a Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance, studying under Dr. Beth Nam. During his time at Biola, he performed in numerous solo and chamber recitals, orchestra concerts, and opera productions. He also served as a student conductor for the Biola Symphony Orchestra and was actively involved in the university's vibrant music community.Kai has participated in the Masterworks Music Festival as both a performer and counselor, most recently in 2025. Through this experience, he had the opportunity to study with esteemed faculty such as Sean Kennard, Dr. Li-Shang Hung, Dr. Lori Rhoden, and Carter Johnson. As a winner of the Masterworks concerto competition, he made his concerto debut with the festival orchestra under the baton of David Chan, concertmaster of the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra (MET). In addition to his performance experience, Kai is a dedicated music educator, having taught students of various ages and levels. He is passionate about nurturing musical growth in each student and tailoring lessons to meet their individual goals and interests.
Kaitlyn Irianto
Kaitlyn Irianto is a violinist based in Orange County and has recently earned her Bachelor’s of Music in Violin Performance from Chapman University as a Temianka and Musco scholarship recipient.In her time at Chapman, she has served as principal and as concertmaster of the Chapman Orchestra and as a member of the Temianka String Quartet. In addition, Kaitlyn was the first recipient loaned a 1952 Becker violin donated by Caron and Jeff Winston during her time at Chapman. She has received various masterclasses from members of the Juilliard String Quartet, Emerson String Quartet, Cornelia Heard, Cho-Liang Lin, and Nicholas Mann. Previous teachers include Eunae Koh, Sojin Kim, Chloe Tardif.As an orchestral and chamber musician, Kaitlyn had attended the Aspen Music Festival, Mostly Modern Music Festival, Atlantic Music Festival, and Borromeo Music Festival. Previous to her undergraduate, she had studied at the Orange County School of the Arts as part of their strings program and received primary private instruction under William Fitzpatrick, as well as taking part in the Musishare Young Artists Program.A dedicated advocate for music education, Kaitlyn currently teaches violin to young and adult players. In her free time, Kaitlyn enjoys knitting and going to the beach.
Katie Braito
Katie graduated from Biola University with a degree in Music Education, where she studied violin with Elizabeth Larson. Begining violin at age 9, Katie has enjoyed playing in several orchestras and chamber music groups, including the Biola Symphony Orchestra and the Biola String Quartet. Katie recently received her teaching credential in music and is passionate about sharing the joy of music with students
Katie Kim
Katie Kim is a violinist and received her bachelors of music in violin perfomance at University of California, Irvine, where she studied under Haroutune Bedelian. During her time at UCI, she served as concertmaster of the UCI Symphony Orchestra and was the winner of the 2017 UCI Concerto Competition, performing Saint-Saëns’ Violin Concerto as a soloist with the orchestra.Katie currently performs with Synesthesia Sinfonietta, with whom she performed alongside Yandel for his Sinfónico tour at the YouTube Theater earlier this year, and will be performing again at the Yaamava’ Theater in Highland, CA. In addition to her orchestral work, she records and performs across Orange County and Los Angeles, including as a featured artist on The Sound Scientists album and as a member of Eli’s Band.Beyond performance, Katie is dedicated to music education as the Assistant Director of the Marina High School Orchestra Program, a private violin instructor at Soundscape, and through her own private studio.
Keith Ransons
Coming soon.
Kevin Massin
Coming soon.
Khải Niên Nguyễn
Khai Nien Nguyen is a clarinetist, educator, and scholar from Southern California. He is currently pursuing a Master of Music in Clarinet Performance at UCLA, studying with Boris Allakhverdyan, and holds a Bachelor of Music in Clarinet Performance with a minor in Music Theory from Oberlin Conservatory.Khai Nien has performed with ensembles including the Akron Symphony and the Taneycomo Festival Orchestra, where he is active in both orchestral and chamber settings. A dedicated educator, he has taught at the Qingdao International Clarinet Seminar, the Tianjin Orchestral Art Music Festival, and Oberlin Conservatory, and he maintains a private studio serving students of diverse backgrounds.Drawing from his Vietnamese heritage, Khai Nien also performs folk music with Emmanuel Choir. He is passionate about expanding access to classical music and fostering community through performance, teaching, and mentorship.
Lillian Young
Lillian Young is a bassist and composer from Austin, Texas. Lillian is currently working towards their master’s in bass performance at the University of Southern California, studying with David Allen Moore. They completed their bachelor’s degree at Boston University, studying music performance with Todd Seeber and composition with Ketty Nez and Martin Amlin. Their previous bass instructors include Tom Van Dyck and David Dawson.Lillian has attended summer festivals including the Lucerne Festival, New Music on the Point, Music Academy of the West, Boston University Tanglewood Institute, and Curtis Summerfest. As a bassist for ALEA III, Lillian has performed in Boston and at the Musa Hellenica Festival in Chios, Greece. Their music has been performed at the Musa Hellenica Festival, by Sound Icon, members of the Lucerne Festival Contemporary Orchestra, Music Academy of the West fellows, Boston University students, and the Westwood High School Symphony. Lillian is a two-time recipient of the Wainwright Prize at Boston University for a song composed about nature.
Lisa Grzanka
Lisa Grzanka, born in Sterling Heights, Michigan started playing the violin at six years old. She received her Bachelors of Music degree in Violin Performance from Western Michigan University where she studied with Renata Knific. During her time in Michigan, she performed with the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra, Battle Creek Symphony Orchestra, Southwest Michigan Symphony Orchestra, Greater Lansing Symphony Orchestra, Westshore Symphony Orchestra and the Detroit Symphony Civic Orchestra. After receiving her Masters of Music from the University of Miami she relocated to Southern California in 2006 where she performs with with the Golden State Pops Orchestra, The Filipino American Symphony Orchestra, Vancouver Symphony, The Juneau Symphony, and Anchorage Symphony OrchestraLisa has also performed and recorded with many talented artists including Juliette Commagere, where she was in the featured string section on KCRW's 'Morning Becomes Electric, played on Filipino Pop artists Bamboo's North American Tour, Sofronio Vasquez, Andrea Bocelli, and Yo-Yo Ma. She can also be heard on video game soundtracks and film and television scores recorded at Capitol Records, East West Studios, Sony Pictures, and Warner Brothers Studios.
Logan Westerviller
Logan Westerviller is a tubist and composer currently residing in Los Angeles. Logan holds degrees in instrumental performance and composition from Capital University, and a master's degree in tuba performance from the University of Southern California. He is currently pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts at the University of Southern California.As a performer, Logan has performed in prestigious venues around the world, including Carnegie Hall, Segerstrom Center for the Arts, the Greek Theater in Hollywood, the Royal College of Music, Palau de la Música in Valencia, and more. He has an emphasis on performing new music, frequently collaborating with living composers to bring fresh works to life. Notably, he gave the world premiere of a work by Bruce Broughton, a multi-Emmy award winning composer, and has worked with numerous emerging voices in Los Angeles and beyond.As an active composer, Logan frequently gets his compositions performed. Logan has had a variety of works performed, which includes performances by Vaughn Wiester's Famous Jazz Orchestra, the Hilliard Community Band, and several performances of his solo and chamber works have been included in student recitals and concerts.
Luchi Jiang
Luchi Jiang is a second-year master’s student studying Violin Performance under Samuel Fischer at the University of Redlands Conservatory of Music. She graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor’s degree in Music from the Northwestern University Bienen School of Music in 2022 studying under Gerardo Ribeiro. At Redlands, Luchi serves as the concertmaster of her university’s Symphony Orchestra and performs regularly with the Redlands Symphony Orchestra (RSO) as a Qualified Student Musician. She was the first-prize winner of her university’s Concerto Competition and recipient of the President’s Honor Recital award in 2025 and will make her solo concerto debut with the RSO in May 2026. As an orchestral violinist, Luchi has performed in renowned venues worldwide including the Sydney Opera House in Australia, multiple famous concert venues in China, and the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Center of the Arts in Orange County. Outside of classical performance, Luchi has worked as a freelance recording musician, recently working with violinist Ray Chen on one of his YouTube projects, and participating in a film score album recorded at the Warner Bros. Studios Eastwood Scoring Stage in Hollywood as part of the LAFCI Studio Intensive program in 2024. She also manages and creates content for her own YouTube channel where she plays covers of her favorite songs online. In her freetime, Luchi enjoys watching shows and playing video games. Luchi is thankful for where music has taken her so far and is excited to see what the future holds.
Luis Guerrero
Coming soon.
Mahfrin Santoke
Mahfrin Santoke is a flute/piccolo player and music educator. She holds a masters in flute performance as well as a California teaching credential and teaches elementary school band and strings in Capistrano Unified School District. She performs with Millennial Choirs and Orchestras and has performed in landmark venues such as Carnegie Hall, Symphony Hall Boston, and Walt Disney Concert Hall. As someone born and raised in Orange County, she is super excited for the South Orange County Orchestra!
Matt Kubis
Matthieu Kubis is a professional Trombonist, Music Educator, and Band Leader with over 15 years of experience performing and teaching across the United States. Born and raised in Houston, Texas, he began his formal academic studies in 2012 at Sam Houston State University, studying under Ben Osborne (Austin Symphony), John McCroskey (Houston Symphony), and Ilan Morgenstern (Houston Grand Opera). In 2015, following a successful audition, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps Band, subsequently studying under Dr. Ken Ebo at the Naval School of Music. He would then go on to perform as a member of Marine Band San Diego’s various ensembles before transitioning in 2020 to the 300th Army Band in the Army Reserve. To further develop his practical skills and experience with academic expertise, he completed his Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies at San Diego State University in 2024, studying under Karl Soukup and Kevin Esposito.While with Marine Band San Diego and the 300th Army Band, Matthieu has performed in more than 700 public events ranging from ceremonies and parades to professional sports games and national tours. As a Band Leader, he directs and arranges music for Jazz Combos, NOLA style Brass Bands, and Ceremonial Ensembles. Additionally, he has been a featured Trombone Soloist in over 350 performances.Beyond his military career, Matthieu performs professionally at the San Diego Zoo with the Chameleons Brass Band and has performed at various theme parks and venues to include SeaWorld, Legoland, Petco Park, and the Balboa Theatre. Additionally, he performs with numerous professional and community ensembles, to include the 524 Brass Band, Marty Conley’s Big Band Xpress, JazzKatz Orchestra, and various classical ensembles. His musical journey has led to masterclasses and performances with Bill Watrous, Marshall Gilkes, Wycliffe Gordon, Allen Vizutti, Bob Mintzer, Willie Murillo, Walter White, Megumi Kanda, Don Lucas, etc.As an educator, he has worked with middle school and high school programs in Texas and Southern California, teaching private lessons, leading brass sectionals, and preparing students for auditions, contests, and honor ensembles. Many of his students have gone on to earn placements in regional honor bands.Matthieu is dedicated to instilling a passion for music in the next generation. He believes that by creating strong fundamentals and allowing opportunity for creativity, you can encourage students to develop and grow not only in their technical abilities and musical proficiency but also in their confidence and love for performance.When he isn’t performing or teaching, Matthieu enjoys traveling, hiking, creating new music, Disney, and exquisite cuisine.
Matthew fang
Coming soon.
Matthew McGraw
Matthew McGraw has been a freelance musician in Southern California for over 20 years. Trained in commercial music, Matthew has become adept at playing many styles in many settings and situations. His experience and talent has allowed him to perform with many SoCal colleges and universities, tour the U.S. and internationally, work with cruise Lines, and share the stage with world class musicians in jazz, classical, theater, and pop music. Recently, Matthew has performed with the Black Tie Symphony and the Tehachapi Symphony Orchestra.
Matthew Smith
Matthew Elton Smith is a dynamic percussionist, drummer, and educator whose career bridges jazz, classical, and contemporary music. Based in Southern California, he brings a spirit of curiosity and collaboration to every project, moving fluidly between orchestral performance, jazz improvisation, and creative composition.Born and raised in San Diego, Smith began his musical journey in the vibrant world of surf rock as a member of his father's high-energy surf band The West Coast Band, blending vintage tones with modern improvisation. The group’s performances at coastal venues such as San Diego County Fair, The Rock and Roll Marathon, and various private events allowed Smith to channel his rhythmic creativity into a genre rooted in movement, joy, and cultural nostalgia. Later in his high school career he began performing with the San Diego Youth Symphony, where he cultivated a deep appreciation for ensemble playing and essential musical repertoire. His early exposure to both orchestral and jazz traditions laid the groundwork for a lifelong passion for rhythm and groove.In 2012 Smith earned his Bachelor of Music in Jazz Trombone Performance from California State University, Fullerton, where he studied under celebrated educators Joey Sellers and Bill Cunliffe. During this time, he performed in numerous university ensembles and community projects, further expanding his range across jazz, Latin, and contemporary idioms. Following his undergraduate studies, Smith took five years to work professionally, performing, teaching, and founding his own group, The Matt Smith Neu Jazz Trio, featuring pianist Ed Kornhauser and bassist Mackenzie Leighton.The trio has recorded three albums to date, showcasing Smith’s distinct compositional voice and rhythmic sensibility. Their most acclaimed release, I Am Calm, features internationally recognized saxophonist Dayna Stephens and GRAMMY Award–winning trumpeter Curtis Taylor, and has been praised for its balance of lyricism, groove, and exploratory spirit.Eventually in 2017 Smith went on to earn his Master of Fine Arts in Jazz Studies from the California Institute of the Arts (CalArts), where he studied drums and world percussion with masters Joe LaBarbera, Randy Gloss, and Swapan Chaudhuri. His time at CalArts deepened his understanding of rhythmic traditions from around the world, particularly Indian and West African music, enriching his stylistic fluency and global perspective.Outside of performing, Smith has dedicated himself to community service and education. He served as a Citizen AmeriCorps member, bringing the arts into schools and underserved communities, and continues to teach percussion through programs such as CAP (Community Arts Partnership) at CalArts. He also performs regularly with the Long Beach Camerata Singers and Pacific Chorale, contributing to many of their pop music productions across Southern California.Through his multifaceted career, Matthew Elton Smith has emerged as a versatile, empathetic musician whose work celebrates rhythm as both an expressive art and a human connector. Whether behind a drum set, in front of a classroom, or collaborating with world-class artists, he continues to embody a balance of technical excellence, cultural awareness, and heartfelt musicality.
Maura Phelps
Based in Long Beach, CA, Maura Phelps is freelance performer, educator, and board certified music therapist. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Performance and Music Therapy at Western Michigan University where she studied under the tutelage of Bruce Uchimura, cellist of the Merlin Trio. In 2022 Maura completed her Master’s Degree in Performance, studying under David Garrett, a long time member of the Los Angeles Philharmonic.
Maura has performed with a variety of ensembles. From 2017-2020 she served as the Associate Principal cellist of the Holland Symphony Orchestra and played with the Southwest Michigan Symphony Orchestra. She has played a variety of musicals and enjoys exploring all genres of music.Since moving to California, she was the winner of the California Association of Professional Music Teachers Concerto competition in 2021 and had the pleasure of performing with the Grammy winning ensemble, Tonality at the 2022 ACDA conference.For nearly a decade, Maura has been committed to the music education of students from all backgrounds. From 2021-2023 she served as a teaching artist with Harmony Project - Long Beach and assisted within the Huntington Beach Unified High School District. Maura relishes the time she spends teaching her own studio of cello and ukulele students.When not performing and teaching, Maura works as a board certified music therapist serving psychiatric patients in a state facility. She values the impact music has on the mind and body to heal our most vulnerable members of society.
Michael Chavez
Coming soon.
Michael Medina
Michael Medina is the Associate Principal Trombone of the San Gabriel Valley Symphony. A proud SGV native and Alhambra High School (Class of 2018) alum, he earned degrees in Trombone Performance and Music Education from the University of Redlands (’24), as well as a Master’s in Learning and Teaching.Michael also serves as Principal Trombone for the LLS Orchestra and the Alwani Middle Eastern Orchestra, with performances at venues including Zipper Hall and BroadStage. He is the Co-Founder and trombonist of OFFTHEAIR, a Southern California-based funk/pop band.In addition to performing, Michael is a dedicated educator who teaches privately and actively freelances. He is passionate about expanding youth access to the arts through both education and performance.
Michael Salgado
Michael was born and raised in Southern California for the majority of his life, with his musical beginnings starting out in the Eastern New Mexico/North Texas band scene in 2009. From there, Michael became influenced by the marching arts and musical performance and continued his newfound passion for music when he came back to California in 2011. After graduating Tustin High School, Michael attended Irvine Valley College in 2015 to further his interest in music performance and studied under Dr. Anthony Mazzaferro and Gabriel Sears on tuba. In 2019, he transferred to California State University, Fullerton where he studied under Dr. David Holben. Michael received his B.M. Degree in tuba performance in 2023. In his professional setting, Michael enjoys and dedicates his career as a freelance musician and educator.Within the performance scene, Michael has demonstrated his versatility with low brass instruments by performing with a number of regional orchestras, chamber ensembles, jazz big bands, wind ensembles, etc. Some of his ensemble experience has included playing in Symphony Irvine, Huntington Beach Symphony Orchestra, Southland Wind Ensemble, Synesthesia Sinfonietta, The McPhee Big Band, Los Angeles Brass Alliance, Upstream Brass, Citrus City Brass Quintet and more.
As a music educator, Michael currently maintains a full-time schedule within Corona-Norco Unified School District through Eleanor Roosevelt High School (Eastvale, CA) and Santiago High School (Corona, CA), and Anaheim Union High School District through Katella High School. Within these two districts, he also works with neighboring middle school sites. He is also in high demand as a private low brass instructor, maintaining a large studio of tuba, euphonium, and bass trombone students within Eastvale and Corona.In his free time, Michael enjoys spending quality time with his friends, going on hikes, trying out new restaurants, reading, arranging music for brass, and doing yoga. Michael currently resides in Tustin, CA.
Milton Salazar
Coming soon.
Nathan Nguyen
Coming soon.
Nathan Swift
Nathan Swift has recently graduated from California State University Long Beach with a Masters in Music Performance. He has studied with Gabe Sears and Kevin Bock. He currently is the principal tubist of the Loyola Law Symphony, a part of the Symphonic Winds of the Pacific, and has been featured in performances with the Berkeley Symphony, Arizona Theater Company, and Bad Cactus Brass Band.
Nathan Tang
Nathan Tang is a Southern California native, being born and raised in Rosemead, CA and has his degree in Music Performance from California State University Long Beach. He has studied with Mason Soria, Gabriel Sears, Norman Pearson, and John Van Houten. Currently, Nathan is a freelancer in the greater Los Angeles area and is substitute teacher for the LA Phil’s YOLA program. In his free time, Nathan enjoys frequenting coffee shops, bodybuilding, and hanging out with his two cats.
Nathanael Peters
Nathanael Peters is a trombonist and music educator based in Southern California. Nathanael began playing trombone at the age of 11 years old and is a proud product of Southern California public schools. He is currently completing a B.M. in Trombone Performance at California State University, Fullerton studying under Michael Hoffman (formerly Principal Trombonist of the Pacific Symphony for 35 years). At CSUF, he currently serves as the Principal Trombone of the Symphony Orchestra under Maestro Kimo Furumoto and Co-Principal Trombone of the Wind Symphony under Dr. Dustin Barr.
Outside of his studies, he remains in demand as both a performer and an educator. Nathanael has performed with a variety of different ensembles including the California Young Artists Symphony, Conejo Valley Choral Society, and the Masterworks Festival Orchestra. He has also performed in a variety of commercial ensembles such as jazz combos, big bands, and with gospel bands. In 2024, he advanced to the final round in Division 1 of the American Trombone Workshop National Solo Competition, hosted by the “Pershing’s Own” U.S. Army Band in Washington D.C. As an educator, he maintains a robust studio of students of all ages, and is passionate about teaching the marching arts.
Nathanael has performed in masterclasses for such esteemed trombonists as Peter Moore, Brad Edwards, Richard Harris, Tony Baker, Bryan Heath, Scott Hartman, and Brittany Lasch. He is passionate about sharing his love for music with the next generation and continuing to make music with such incredible colleagues.
Neven Basener
Born and raised in San Diego County, Neven Basener has developed a love for performing over the past several years of honing her craft. Growing up in Vista, Neven first started her horn-playing journey at the age of eleven in her middle school wind band. Within a year, Neven would skyrocket to first chair in the top band, and she would continue her upward-trajectory throughout high school. Neven is an alumni of the San Diego Youth Symphony, where she received the Ovation Principal Merit Award as principal horn in both the Symphony Orchestra and the Chamber Orchestra. Neven earned her Bachelor's degree in music from California State University San Marcos, while studying with former second Horn of the San Diego Symphony, Warren Gref. Throughout her time as an undergraduate, Neven enjoyed performing as a member of the La Jolla Symphony under director Sameer Patel, performing monstrous works with the symphony, like Bela Bartòk’s Concerto for Orchestra, as well as Igor Stravinsky's “Rite of Spring” and “Petrushka”. Keeping her roots in Southern California, Neven is now pursuing her Master’s Degree in French Horn performance at the USC Thornton School of Music under former principal horn of the Metropolitan Opera, Julie Landsman. Neven also enjoys being involved in the Southern California music scene, often working with groups such as the San Diego City Ballet and the Coronado Philharmonia. Most recently, Neven has had the honor to perform withworld-renowned Phantom of the Opera soprano, Sarah Brightman, for a portion of her 2024 “Christmas Symphony” North America tour, as well as with Italian vocal pop group, Il Volo, at the Peacock theater in Los Angeles earlier this year. Neven’s hard work has continued to pay off. While earning her Bachelor’s degree, she was the recipient of the President Karen S. Haynes Music Scholarship, the Wagner Music Scholarship, and the CHABSS Student Success Grant. Neven is also a current recipient of the William A. Schaeffer Merit Scholarship Award for the duration of her graduate studies at the University of Southern California.
Nicholas Tseng
Born and raised in Southern California in a multi-cultural and multilingual household with English, Taiwanese, Japanese, and North American cultures and traditions, Nicholas brings this vibrant heritage to his performances as well as his photography.As a flutist, he has performed in Tokyo, Japan at Flute Celebration 2024 by Seiya Ueno alongside principal flutists from around the world including, Sébastian Jacot, Clément Dufour, Virgile Aragau, Shigenori Kudo, and Xavier Luck. Whilst in grad school, he has performed with the Mizzou New Music Ensemble, MU Symphony, and Wind Ensemble, additionally with the Millennial Choirs and Orchestras at the Kauffman Centre.Nicholas holds Bachelor’s Double Degrees in Flute Performance and Psychology from the University of California, Irvine and a Master’s in Flute Performance from the University of Missouri, Columbia with full scholarship and stipend from the generous Sinquefield Charitable Foundation. His primary teachers include Alice K. Dade, Patricia Cloud, and Suzuki teacher trainer Ivy Huang. He has appeared and performed in masterclasses for Matthew Roitstein, Cobus du Toit, James Hall, and Anne Zentner. Since moving home, he has returned to South Coast Youth Symphony Orchestra as the winds section clinician and performs with the group at prestigious concert halls around Orange County.Beyond music/performing, Nicholas is also an entrepreneur, professional photographer, and automotive enthusiast. Specializing in musicians' portraits, concert photography, and automotive photography. His work has appeared on magazine covers and been seen and shared by major brands like Powell Flutes, Mancke Headjoints, Bowers and Wilkins, Canon USA/Japan, BMW USA, and Porsche Canada. As a social media manager, he established online presence for both the MU Symphony and his own flute accessories company, CAM.VOYAGE.
Nicolai Flores
Coming soon.
Nina Kang
Coming soon.
Noah Cisneros
Noah Cisneros began his musical studies in his hometown of Whittier, California at age 11. Throughout high school, he became involved in many community ensembles and projects, such as a cello/violin duo known as String Theory. Prior to attending college, Noah privately studied violin with Leslie Ho. He is classically trained and has earned his Bachelors of Music Degree in Violin Performance through The Ohio State University, where he studied with Kia-Hui Tan. An avid orchestral and chamber performer, he has regularly performed in orchestras throughout Ohio and California, such as the Central Ohio Symphony, the Whittier Regional Symphony, and the McConnell Arts Center Chamber Orchestra. Today, Noah enjoys collaborating with exciting musicians and performing many different styles of music such as classical, folk, and jazz. As a composer, Noah is primarily influenced by the works of composers such as Shostakovich, Ravel, Ives, and John Williams and studies their compositions with great detail. His most recent commissions were his, String Quartet No. 2 in One Movement, “A Nostalgic Moment”, which was given its premiere, Summer 2023, in Columbus, Ohio by the Quasi String Quartet and "Overture for a Daring Voyage" premiered in Fall 2024 by the Southland Symphony Orchestra. Apart from being a musician, Noah enjoys working as a City Planner, going traveling, photography and hiking in beautiful Southern California.
Paul De La Rosa
Paul Hyun received his BM in Cello Performance from the Cleveland Institute of Music as well as a Performance Certificate for Chamber Music from San Francisco Conservatory of Music. His main teachers were Stephen Geber, Jean Michel Fonteneau, and Metta Watts. He also received instruction from Mark Kosower, Stephen Balderston, Emil Colon, Geoffrey Solow, Orlando Cole and Sieun Lin. Paul has performed in masterclasses for David Requiro, Robert de Maine, Kenneth Olson, Jonathan Koh and Laslo Varga. Paul has participated as a member of the San Francisco Youth Symphony, All State Symphony Orchestra, Angel Fire, Encore School for Strings, Aria International Summer Music Festival, Hidden Valley Music Seminars, Roundtop Orchestra Festival and the National Orchestral Institute. In the past, Paul served as principal cellist for the SF Korean Symphony now known as Silicon Valley Philharmonic and Winchester Symphony Orchestras. Paul is currently teaching privately for all ages and levels in Orange County as well as being a cello coach for both Santiago Charter Middle School and Canyon High School. Paul is also the Founder and Director of Improvicelli, a collaboration of cellists who entertain audiences in musical styles from classical all the way to Jazz Improvisation. Doing this also educates music students by teaching them to think outside the realms of classical music while keeping the fundamentals of their training. Paul has been a featured soloist with Palo Alto Philharmonic, SF Korean Symphony, Prometheus Symphony, San Jose State Symphony and the Gradus ad Parnassum Youth Orchestra. Outside of teaching, Paul's goal is to teach all music students how to enjoy and love music while learning ways to improve themselves through their own abilities. He has two duos he performs regularly with: Celli à Deux and Supersmash Celli. Paul plays on a 2002 Andrew Carruthers Ruggieri Cello and a Concert White Electric Yamaha cello. Fun fact, Paul is also the younger brother of violinist Katie Hyun. He is also a professional martial artist and teach self defense to the Irvine community.
Paul Hyun
Paul Hyun received his BM in Cello Performance from the Cleveland Institute of Music as well as a Performance Certificate for Chamber Music from San Francisco Conservatory of Music. His main teachers were Stephen Geber, Jean Michel Fonteneau, and Metta Watts. He also received instruction from Mark Kosower, Stephen Balderston, Emil Colon, Geoffrey Solow, Orlando Cole and Sieun Lin. Paul has performed in masterclasses for David Requiro, Robert de Maine, Kenneth Olson, Jonathan Koh and Laslo Varga. Paul has participated as a member of the San Francisco Youth Symphony, All State Symphony Orchestra, Angel Fire, Encore School for Strings, Aria International Summer Music Festival, Hidden Valley Music Seminars, Roundtop Orchestra Festival and the National Orchestral Institute. In the past, Paul served as principal cellist for the SF Korean Symphony now known as Silicon Valley Philharmonic and Winchester Symphony Orchestras. Paul is currently teaching privately for all ages and levels in Orange County as well as being a cello coach for both Santiago Charter Middle School and Canyon High School. Paul is also the Founder and Director of Improvicelli, a collaboration of cellists who entertain audiences in musical styles from classical all the way to Jazz Improvisation. Doing this also educates music students by teaching them to think outside the realms of classical music while keeping the fundamentals of their training. Paul has been a featured soloist with Palo Alto Philharmonic, SF Korean Symphony, Prometheus Symphony, San Jose State Symphony and the Gradus ad Parnassum Youth Orchestra. Outside of teaching, Paul's goal is to teach all music students how to enjoy and love music while learning ways to improve themselves through their own abilities. He has two duos he performs regularly with: Celli à Deux and Supersmash Celli. Paul plays on a 2002 Andrew Carruthers Ruggieri Cello and a Concert White Electric Yamaha cello. Fun fact, Paul is also the younger brother of violinist Katie Hyun. He is also a professional martial artist and teach self defense to the Irvine community.
Pauline Yi
Pauline Yi is a seasoned violinist and teacher based in Los Angeles with over 20 years of professional experience. Her diverse performance credits include the Grammys with the Foo Fighters and John Paul Jones of Led Zeppelin. She has had the privilege of performing for a Grammy Foundation event honoring Sir George Martin, legendary producer for the Beatles and collaborated with artists David Foster, Tom Jones, Jeff Beck, and Chris Botti. Her performance credits also include gala concerts with artists Katharine McPhee, Michael Feinstein, and Dionne Warwick. She has also performed in ensembles with top South Korean and other international artists such as Lee Moonsae, Jay Park, SISTAR, SECRET, 4minute, U-KISS, Baek Ji Young, G.NA, K.Will, DJ DOC, APO Hiking Society, The Voice winner Sofronio Vasquez, and Leila Forouhar. She was a longtime member of American Youth Symphony and YMF Debut Orchestra where she was given the opportunity to go on a 6 city 8 concert tour of southern China. Notably, Pauline stepped in as Principal of the second violin section for the Korean National Military Symphony during their Southern California tour, featuring top actor Lee Junki and singer Park Hyo Shin. She has appeared at iconic venues including Hollywood Bowl, Walt Disney Concert Hall, Nokia Center, and Dorothy Chandler Pavilion and has performed film scores under the baton of composers John Williams in the world premiere of War Horse, and has also performed under the baton of film composers David Newman and Michel Legrand. Currently she is an active freelance musician in the greater Los Angeles area and performs regularly with the San Gabriel Valley Symphony, Los Angeles Sinfonietta, Filipino American Symphony Orchestra, Dosan Symphony Orchestra, and Roudaki Orchestra.
Peter Ko
Coming soon.
Peter Marcos
Born and raised in California, Peter Marcos performs as a freelance violinist throughout Southern California. He is currently the principal second violinist for the Filipino American Symphony Orchestra, associate principal 2nd violin for the San Gabriel Symphony Orchestra, and a violinist with the Golden State Pops Orchestra. Most recently, he performed in the pit orchestra for East West Players’ award-winning production of Stephen Sondheim’s Pacific Overtures.In addition to his orchestral work, Peter is active in the Los Angeles studio recording scene and serves as a first violin substitute with the Bakersfield Symphony. He has performed with a wide range of artists and ensembles, including The Voice’s Sofronio Vasquez and Lana Love, Fortnite Season 7 composer Alexander Rannie, international singer Lani Misalucha, the musical group APO Hiking Society, and Bill Rogers, the official voice of Disneyland.Peter’s versatility as a performer is matched by his commitment to musical excellence, making him a valued collaborator in live performance and recording projects across genres.
Phillip Pacier
Phillip Pacier is regionally recognized for his diverse skills as a performing musician, conductor, and music educator. He is currently the principal trumpet of the La Mirada Symphony and is an active freelance trumpeter. Phillip’s orchestral experience spans most of California and Arizona, having appeared with the Orange County Master Chorale, Santa Barbara Symphony, Flagstaff Symphony, and the Bear Valley Music Festival, among others. He also spent five years as the lead trumpet player for La Sonora del Caribe, a regionally recognized Latin dance band, and has been featured on several recordings, spanning both classical and popular genres.Phillip is also very active as a music educator and is currently on the faculty of several Southern California community colleges. He is also noted for his skills in conducting and arranging music and previously served as the assistant conductor of the Southern California Youth Philharmonic. You may even see him around town playing electric bass, though nothing can equal his love for the trumpet.
Priyanka Venkatesh
Coming soon.
Rachel Miner
American violist Rachel Miner is an innovative and passionate artist. Her affinity for collaboration and leadership led her to co-found Toca Chamber Collective, and serve as a lead organizer of the annual “Music for Meals” chamber music concert to raise money for the Boys and Girls Club of London, Ontario. Her love for chamber music has led her to perform with illustrious chamber musicians such as Blake Pouliot, Scott St. John, Thomas Wiebe, Brian Manker, Erika Raum, and Angela Park. Most recently, her string quartet was a finalist of the Lyric Chamber Music Competition.As an educator, Miner has taught and coached chamber music at programs for young musicians such as Festival del Lago, El Sistema Aeolian, the Young Artist Pre-College Academy, and the Pioneer High School Orchestra Camp. She also maintains a private studio of violists, and taught sight-singing and music theory at Western University and Pepperdine University, respectively.Miner extends the utmost respect and gratitude to her principal instructors including Sheila Browne, Sharon Wei, Karolina Naziemiec, Andrew Picken, Renee Skerik, Jeff Cowen, Patricia Gaddis, and Kim Ricard.
Ramon Negron
Coming soon.
Rebecca Yeh
Coming soon.
Remy Fang
Coming soon.
Ricky Medina
Ricky Medina is a doctoral student at UCLA and enjoys a varied career as a performer and teacher. He draws inspiration from other musicians and visual artists and enjoys learning about how other artists transmit affect using self, place, and time as mediums beyond the artwork. His solo performances are influenced by elements of narrativity, performance art, fashion, and the visual arts so that he can communicate how his musical selections connect to current and past events in his life.As a graduate student at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, Ricky was recipient of the UW Advanced Opportunity Fellowship for students from underrepresented communities. He held the principal flute position with both the UW–Madison Symphony Orchestra and Wind Ensemble. He also performed in solo and chamber music engagements with other students and faculty members throughout his time in Madison. Previously, he performed as a member of the Pacific Flute Ensemble, with regular outreach performances in the city of Long Beach and performances at the National Flute Association Convention.Ricky also served as teaching assistant for the Music in Performance course at UW–Madison. In this role, he coordinated and performed lecture recitals geared toward undergraduate students from across the university. He was the flute instructor for the UW Summer Music Clinic, an outreach program that promotes engagement and joy for music in middle and high school
students from across the Midwest. He served as the flute instructor for the Junior Odyssey Project at the UW–Madison South Partnership. He also taught lessons, sectionals, and chamber ensembles to flute students in the Madison Metropolitan School District.During his time as a public school teacher in Southern California, he was as an elementary winds specialist for the Irvine Unified School District. He worked with the special education program to provide general music instruction to students receiving special education services. He mentored students who went on to perform with IUSD and SCSBOA honor ensembles. Ricky was also the winds caption head for the La Quinta High School Marching Aztecs.Ricky maintains a private teaching practice with a specialty in teaching the beginner flutist. His journey as a public school educator influences his practice as he trains his students to find the joy in music-making. His students have gone on to pursue degrees in music education, music performance, musicology, and ethnomusicology.Ricky earned the master of music degree from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and bachelor of music degrees in performance and music education as well as a teaching license from California State University, Long Beach. His primary teachers include Ben Smolen, Conor Nelson, Rena Urso, and John Barcellona.
Ruben Puebla
Ruben Puebla is a low brass musician, percussionist and educator in Southern California, specializing in Tuba. Over the years, Ruben has had the honor of performing with various groups in the area, including the Santa Monica Symphony, Symphony Irvine, Dana Point Symphony, the Vietnamese-American Philharmonic, and the Orange County Wind Symphony. He can most commonly be heard at the Disneyland Resort, performing with the world famous Disneyland Band. Ruben has also been a consistent educational presence in the area, working with many schools in the area, and most recently was the Instrumental Music Director at Santa Margarita Catholic High School from 2022 - 2025. Ruben earned his Bachelors and Masters Degrees in Tuba Performance from CSU, Long Beach. During his career, he has studied with John Van Houten and John Noreyko, as well as having had the pleasure of learning from Roger Bobo, Mike Hoffman, and Jim Self.
Sebastian Lee
Coming soon.
Steven Bodenhoefer
Steven Bodenhoefer is a contrabassist who grew up local to South Orange County with a love for classical music, both listening to and performing with a variety of groups. As a musician, he has performed with various groups while attending the Orange County School of the Arts, graduating in 2017. Currently, he resides in Santa Ana, performing as the principal contrabassist with the Santa Ana College Orchestra and Orange County Community Symphony Orchestra (active seasonally) as their principal bassist while also on staff with the South Coast Youth Symphony Orchestra as their low strings coach, using a well-balanced approach to help develop the next generation of cellists and contrabassists.
Shannon Leslie
Shannon Leslie is a recent graduate of Concordia University Irvine, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Engineering. She began playing jazz trombone at Northwood High School before transitioning to classical trombone during her senior year. Shannon studied trombone performance under Len Wicks and Gwang Kim. At Concordia, she served as Principal Trombonist in both the Wind Orchestra and Symphony Orchestra for all four years. In addition to her orchestral experience, she performed as second trombone in Concordia’s Jazz Ensemble, and has been a part of Concordia's Brass Quintet. Shannon is now pursuing a career in loudspeaker engineering within the audio industry and is thrilled to be joining the South Orange County Orchestra.
Taylor Cooksey-Nguyen
Ty Kanauchi is a violist with a bachelor's and master's in viola performance from Califorinia State University Fullerton. She performs with orchestras in Los Angeles and Orange County such as the Civic Orchestra of LA, San Gabriel Symphony, OC of OC, and Dream Orchestra of LA.She is also the founder of Quartet 57, a quartet that features queer musicians and performs her robust quartet arrangements of popular music.As well as a performer, she is a private teacher for several students and is a viola coach for Valencia High School, New Hope Orchestra, and Buddha's Light Youth Symphony Orchestra.
Taylor Cooksey-Nguyen
Violist Taylor Cooksey-Nguyen is a passionate leader, avid performer, and empathetic educator based within and beyond the San Francisco Bay Area. She has had the privilege to travel the world as a soloist, chamber musician, studio musician, and orchestral musician, sharing her love for music with people in venues in the USA, Europe, and beyond. She currently serves as a Section Violist for both Stockton and Modesto Symphonies, the Assistant Principal Violist for Golden Gate Symphony, and regularly substitutes for orchestras including San Francisco Symphony, California Symphony, Sacramento Phil and Opera, and many more. When not performing classical viola, Taylor spends her time singing and playing violin in the band Victor and the Callers.As an orchestral musician, Taylor has performed in leadership positions for Berkeley Symphony, SFJAZZ, Merced Symphony, SF Academy Orchestra, Berkeley Chorus and the American Youth Symphony, and has served as a section member with multiple other orchestras throughout California. Taylor has performed with bands including Journey and Trans Siberian Orchestra in 2022 and 2023 respectively, and has performed at GDC alongside Austin Wintory and Troy Baker during the 2024 Main Stage Concert. Taylor has also played violin and viola alongside a wide range of musicians including Moein, Dariyush, Matteo Bocelli, Patti Austin, Teddy Swims, Chris Potter, Los Rakas, Oscar Cortez, and Snow Tha Product. Taylor has performed in halls across the country, including Carnegie Hall, the Walt Disney Concert Hall, Segerstrom Center for the Arts, the Kennedy Center, and the Davies Symphony Hall, and has performed in cities including Oxford, Paris, Edinburgh, Prague, and Hamburg.Taylor has appeared as both a violin and viola soloist with Seraphim Youth Symphony, where she performed at the XXX London Olympic Games, UK’s Bristol Cathedral, as well as the Chambord Castle and La Madeleine Cathedral in France. As a chamber musician, Taylor served as the violist of Bob Cole Conservatory of Music’s University String Quartet, the most prestigious group at the school. She also led the school’s chamber orchestra in multiple performances throughout Germany and Prague, serving as both the solo and principal violist. Taylor also had the wonderful opportunity to serve as the principal violist of the San Francisco Conservatory of Music’s Baroque Chamber Ensemble for her duration at the school, where she performed on a period instrument. As a studio musician, Taylor has recording credits for the band Tribal Seeds, as well as for the short film “Bruised” by Rok Won Hwang and Samantha Tu.Taylor earned her Bachelor of Music in Viola Performance from California State University, Long Beach in 2019, where she studied with Dr. Jason Bonham. Taylor then went on to earn her Master of Music in Viola Performance from San Francisco Conservatory of Music in 2021, where she studied with Mr. Jonathan Vinocour. While at CSULB, Taylor also spent two years in the Music Education department, where she shadowed various elementary, middle, and high school educators throughout the Long Beach Unified School District and took courses to further develop her teaching methods. While at SFCM, Taylor had the opportunity to receive masterclasses and lessons from members of the Telegraph Quartet, Matthew Young, Teng Li, and Jessica Bodner.
Teran Hall
Teran Hall is an accomplished violist and violinist whose musical journey spans from Nashville, Tennessee to California. He has served as Principal Violist of the Belmont University Symphony Orchestra, the Civic Orchestra of Abilene, and the University of Redlands Symphony Orchestra. He is currently a first violinist in the Pasadena Community College Orchestra. Teran was featured as Principal Violist of the elite Belmont Strings chamber group in the PBS broadcast of Christmas at Belmont held at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center. He also performed at Walt Disney Concert Hall with the Fresno Orchestra & Opera Summer Academy which he attended on a full scholarship, and served as a Youth Orchestra Coach during his time there.Teran was honored as the inaugural recipient of the endowed Mark Riggs Violist Scholarship via the Civic Orchestra of Abilene recognizing his exceptional artistry and leadership. He has also shared his expertise as an Assistant Orchestra Director within the Abilene Independent School District. Teran holds a Master's of Music in Performance from the University of Redlands where
he attended with a graduate assistantship.
Theodore Hom
Theodore Hom is a cellist with the San Gabriel Symphony, was a fellow of the California Young Artists Symphony, and has subbed with the Huntington Beach Symphony, Alwani Orchestra, and Roudaki Orchestra.He has performed under the baton of Gustavo Dudamel, Rafeal Payare, David Chan, Larry Livingston, Mei Anne Chen, Josep Caballé Domenech and Johannes Muller Stosch at iconic venues such as Walt Disney Concert Hall, the Hollywood Bowl, and the Gagosian Gallery, Tanglewood Music Center, Kaohsiung Concert Hall, Moores Opera House, Segerstrom Concert Hall, Kavli Theatre, and Ambassador Auditorium.He currently studies with Dr. David Garrett of the Los Angeles Philharmonic at CSULB where he is principal cellist of the conservatory’s Symphony Orchestra and was selected to perform as a member of the University String Quartet.In addition to performing, Theodore is a dedicated educator. He has held teaching positions with the Saturday Conservatory of Music and Belmont Music Studio, and he currently teaches through “The Youth Center” in the Los Alamitos School District.
Timothy Moy
Timothy Moy is a freelance horn player that is based in Los Angeles and Orange County. He is currently the Principal Horn for Bellflower Symphony, a Rotating Section Horn Player with Whittier Regional Symphony, and most recently was appointed as the 3rd Horn with La Mirada Symphony. Outside of Bellflower Symphony, Whittier Regional Symphony, and La Mirada Symphony, Timothy has also performed with the Four Seasons Orchestra, Pacific Brass, Southland Symphony, American Youth Symphony, the Westside Ballet Company and more. Tim is also an active Chamber Musician performing as the Resident Horn Player for Citrus City Brass and Fine Winds. In Boston, Timothy performed with the Dubois Orchestra, as the 4th Horn, and the New England Brass Band. Timothy’s playing career has taken him to venues in Boston, Santa Monica, Cerritos, Aliso Viejo, and Los Angeles, San Diego, Tempe, Long Beach, Las Vegas, Bryce Canyon National Park and more. Timothy also performed in Powell River, British Columbia, Canada with the PRISMA Music Festival Orchestra during the summer of 2022. Timothy was also a participant at the Rafael Mendez Brass Institute in Denver, Colorado as a part of Citrus City Brass during the summer of 2024. Timothy also went on a tour with Citrus City Brass to the island of Maui in February 2025 to perform for schools and the public. Most recently, Timothy performed with Yandel’s Sinfónico Tour at the YouTube Theater in Inglewood in June 2025.Timothy received his Bachelors of Music in Horn Performance at California State University Fullerton where he studied with Steve Mahpar and Warren Gref. Timothy also earned his Masters of Music in Horn Performance at Boston University where he studied with Eric Ruske. While in his free time, Tim likes to spend time with his friends and family, play video games, and go out and explore the LA and OC food scenes.
Victoria Lee
Oboist Victoria Hiromi Doo Lee takes music anywhere. From appearing with chamber groups at aquariums and art museums in California and touring as a soloist in Europe, to performing in unusual venues such as wind octets in Branson pubs and the Park Avenue Armory with the New York Philharmonic.Victoria began her studies with Lisa Patanella, Dr. Jonathan Davis, and Ariana Ghez while at the Orange County School of the Arts. After moving to New York for college, her career escalated quickly as both a classical and contemporary musician. A typical season would include early Renaissance double reed band music with the New York Kammermusiker, performing with the New York Youth Symphony as principal oboe, and premiering works such as Mohammed Fairouz’s opera Sumeida’s Song.Her passion for teaching began in college when she was appointed as the Manhattan School of Music’s MSM Sundays oboe instructor, a program designed to provide private lessons to amateur musicians in New York City. In the same year, she was invited to teach with the MSM Distance Learning Center and maintained a small private studio via video calling for high school students in the cities of Norfolk and Stanton, Nebraska. Since sparking her career as an educator, Victoria has taught with Bocal Majority double reed summer camps in Northern and Southern California and represented the organization at several double reed and music education conferences. She is a regular guest speaker for the Southern California School Band and Orchestra Association (SCSBOA), presenting seminars on oboe pedagogy at their annual professional development convention.Victoria is a section oboist and Woodwind Coordinator for the Taneycomo Festival Orchestra, located in Branson, MO, whose mission is to re-popularize classical music by performing in unusual venues. In addition to regular performances, the members of the Taneycomo Festival Orchestra share a common passion for both collaboration and education, contributing to multi-media projects with the White River Artists Alliance or presenting programs for children at the local library.Victoria holds a BM in Classical Oboe and MM in Orchestral Oboe Performance from the Manhattan School of Music. Currently in her tenth season as the principal chair of the Santa Monica Symphony, Victoria is also a founding member of the esteemed reed quintet Syrinx, which won the 2019 Beverly Hills National Auditions, and of the groundbreaking Catalyst Wind Collective, for which she also serves as Secretary and Librarian. Victoria is on the faculty of California State University of Los Angeles, Cerritos College, Orange Coast College, Irvine Valley College, and Fullerton College, and also coaches at many local middle and high schools. She held the position of Oboe & Chamber Music Instructor in the Orange County School of the Arts' prestigious Frederick Fennell Wind Studies program for ten years. An active freelance oboist in four Southern California counties, she resides in Huntington Beach, maintaining her career as an in-demand performer, clinician, and private teacher.
Vincent Basurto
Vincent “Vinny” Basurto is a bass trombonist throughout the Orange County and Los Angeles areas and is a local resident to SoCo from Aliso Viejo. Currently, he is a third year music performance major at the CSULB Bob Cole Conservatory of Music. He takes lessons with legendary studio bass trombonist Steve Trapani, where his professional skills continue to sharpen. Vinny is currently performing in the BCCM Symphonic Band and Studio Jazz Band in the bass trombone chairs, as well as being a member of the University Trombone Choir and Jazz Combos. In his free time, he hyperfocuses on music projects (quite a lot), having recently began delving into composition and media scoring. He is also an alumnus of the Pacific Crest and Boston Crusaders drum corps, where he performed as a tubist in 2023 and 2024 respectively. Outside of music, Vinny is a digital privacy and cybersecurity advocate with a mission to educate people about protecting themselves online. Lastly, he loves spending time with his girlfriend of 3 years and top supporter, Sofia, and having long talks with her about anything for hours on end.
Wan Chin Chang
Wan-Chin Chang appears regularly as a soloist with orchestras such as the Blue Lake Festival Orchestra, Dana Point Symphony, Southern California Philharmonics, MiraCosta College Symphony, La Mirada Symphony, Southland Symphony, Temecula Valley Symphony, Orchestra Collectives of Orange County, Orange County Symphony, and Orange County Wind Symphony. Besides concerto and solo performances, she also frequently collaborates with other musicians in chamber recitals. She had been invited to perform at across the county, appearing in Valdosta University, Saginaw Valley State University, Grand Valley University, Fullerton College, Fallbrook Music Society, White Lake Chamber Music Festival, Blodgett Faculty Recital Series at Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp, The Gladys Frisch Harris Piano Festival, and Orange Women's Club.Dr. Chang attended the University of Southern California and Aspen Music Festival with full scholarships, and she was the winner of the Leni Fe Foundation Scholarship, Pi Kappa Lambda Award, Chamber Music Award, and Outstanding Graduate Award. She also served as an assistant lecturer while completing her DMA in piano performance with a minor in violin performance from USC under the guidance of Antoinette Perry on the piano, and Eudice Shapiro on the violin. She is currently the assistant concertmaster of Sea Coast Symphony and principal second violin at Orchestra Collective of Orange County.As an educator, Dr. Chang’s students consistently receive top ratings and prizes in MTNA and MTAC evaluations and competitions. Several of her students have been accepted into music schools such as University of Southern California, California State Universities (Fullerton, Long Beach, and San Marcos), and Chapman University. She has been on the judging panel of The Musical Merit Foundation of San Diego, MTAC San Diego Concerto Competition, Chopin Festival in San Diego, Southern California Philharmonic Young Artists Competition, Pelican International Music Competition, Concours International Competition, Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp staff competition and camper competition. She is currently on faculty at MiraCosta College in Oceanside and Soka University of America in Aliso Viejo. During the summer, she is the piano department director at Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp in Michigan.
William Parada
William Parada is a freelance musician and educator from California where he began his musical career. Will is a graduate of California State University San Bernardino with a Bachelor of Music Performance and has recently graduated from the University of Minnesota with a Masters in Trumpet Performance. Will is currently performing and teaching with the Inner-City Youth Orchestra of Los Angeles (ICYOLA), which is one of the largest youth orchestras with people of color. He is also working as a Disneyland Musician, playing Herald Trumpet in a Christmas Fantasy Parade.
Xinrae Cardozo
Xinrae Cardozo is a graduate student at the University of Southern California’s Thornton School of Music, where she studies French horn performance under Julie Landsman. She earned her Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Miami’s Frost School of Music as a Stamps Brass Quintet Scholar from 2020 to 2024. Xinrae has attended festivals including the Sarasota Music Festival and Blackburn Music Academy. In her free time, she enjoys baking, trying new food and spending time with her three dogs.
Yasmine Abuelhija
Yasmine Abuelhija is a cellist with experience performing in various ensembles across Southern California and Utah. She currently holds an artist fellowship with the California Young Artists Symphony, and is a recent graduate of the University of Utah, where she studied under Dr. Elliott Cheney. Her orchestral experience also includes positions with the Los Angeles Arab Orchestra, Utah Philharmonia, Salt Lake Symphony, the Orange County Community Symphony Orchestra, and the Orange County Youth Symphony.Yasmine has participated in notable music festivals such as the 2025 ARIA International Music Academy in South Hadley, MA, where she studied with renowned cellists Mihai Tetel, Steven Doane, Dmitry Kouzov, Stephen Balderston, Paul York, and Bruce Uchimura. She was also awarded an apprenticeship to participate in the 2023 National Music Festival in Chestertown, MD. Yasmine is also the founder of Giving Bach Performing Arts, a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing music to senior homes.
Zachary Spiess
Zachary Spiess is a Los Angeles-based freelance trumpet player, educator, and arranger. An Arizona native, Spiess got his Bachelor’s degree in trumpet performance from Arizona State University and a Master’s in performance at the Bob Cole Conservatory at CSU Long Beach. Zachary is a member of the San Gabriel Valley Symphony, and is principal trumpet of a new civic orchestra in LA, the Angeles Symphony Orchestra. He is well-versed in many styles of playing and has performed with the Santa Monica Symphony, the Tucson Symphony Orchestra, the American Youth Symphony, the Temecula Valley Symphony, the Pacific Brass Ensemble, the Los Angeles Brass Alliance, and Upstream! Brass.Zachary also teaches many schools and institutions throughout the South Bay, Orange County, and LA County. In addition, he has been a fellow at the Bay View Music Festival, and has participated in the Eastern Music Festival, the Rafael Méndez Brass Institute, and the Trumpet Forward Festival. Spiess’ primary teachers include Ryan Darke, David Hickman, Josef Burgstaller, and Benny Nguyen.
Staff
Emma Clausen - Intern
Hitesh Benny - Intern
Kai Lee - Intern
Keith Ransons - Operations Manager
Emma Clausen
I grew up in a military family, so I moved around a bit, but started music in East Lyme, Connecticut, where I went to middle and high school. I studied with Jill Maurer Davis from 7th-12th grade, and in that time I competed in CMEA competitions such as Eastern Region and All States. Currently, I'm a Music Education and Music Therapy double major at Biola University, and spend a lot of time playing both flute and piccolo in ensembles throughout the year! I also now live with my family in Corona, CA! Outside of music, I really enjoy volleyball, traveling, and spending time with family and friends!
Hitesh Benny
Coming soon.
Kai Lee
Born and raised in Hong Kong, Kai Lee began studying music performance at the age of three. He attended the International Christian
Quality Music Secondary and Primary School in Hong Kong for 11 years, where he was selected for the music elite program and regularly performed as a soloist and chamber musician. In addition to his primary focus on piano, Kai minored in bassoon andearned ABRSM Grade 7 certification from the Royal Schools of Music in 2018. He served as the principal bassoonist in the school orchestra and actively participated in local competitions, including the Hong Kong School Music Festival. He also earned the Associate Diploma in Piano Performance (ATCL) from Trinity College London and was a prizewinner in the 6th Hong Kong Asia-Pacific Youth Piano Competition in the Chopin B and Sonata categories.Kai recently graduated from Biola University with a Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance, studying under Dr. Beth Nam. During his time at Biola, he performed in numerous solo and chamber recitals, orchestra concerts, and opera productions. He also served as a student conductor for the Biola Symphony Orchestra and was actively involved in the university's vibrant music community.
Kai has participated in the Masterworks Music Festival as both a performer and counselor, most recently in 2025. Through this experience, he had the opportunity to study with esteemed faculty such as Sean Kennard, Dr. Li-Shang Hung, Dr. Lori Rhoden, and Carter Johnson. As a winner of the Masterworks concerto competition, he made his concerto debut with the festival orchestra under the baton of David Chan, concertmaster of the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra (MET). In addition to his performance experience, Kai is a dedicated music educator, having taught students of various ages and levels. He is passionate about nurturing musical growth in each student and tailoring lessons to meet their individual goals and interests
Keith Ransons
Coming soon.
SOCO Youth
Launching in Fall 2026, the South Orange County Orchestra will offer talented young musicians in 9th grade and above the opportunity to perform challenging repertoire in a professional setting. Under the guidance of SOCO's artistic team, students will rehearse and perform side by side with inspiring mentors while developing their skills and passion for orchestral music.More details about auditions, schedule, and tuition will be announced at our Inaugural Concert on April 11.
SOCO Youth Chorus
Beginning January 2026, the South Orange County Orchestra is proud to launch the SOCO Youth Chorus. A brand new choir for students in grades 4-7. Young singers will rehearse weekly in a fun, supportive environment while developing their voices, musicianship, and love of choral music.The Youth Chorus will make its debut performance at SOCO's Inaugural Concert on April 11, 2026 at the beautiful Lake Forest Performing Arts Center. This performance will provide the students with the exciting opportunity to share the stage with a professional orchestra.For more details about registration and tuition, please fill out the form below.
Donations
The South Orange County Orchestra is made possible through the generosity of our community. Your support helps us present professional orchestral performances, empower young musicians through programs like the SOCO Youth Chorus, and expand music education and outreach across South Orange County.SOCO is a California nonprofit public benefit corporation, and our 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status is currently pending with the IRS. All donations made now will become tax-deductible retroactively once our determination letter is approved.Thank you for being a founding supporter of SOCO. Together, we are building a new cultural home for South Orange County!
Contact
The South Orange County Orchestra welcomes inquiries from musicians, supporters, and community partners. Whether you’re interested in performing with us, sponsoring our work, or learning more about upcoming concerts, we’d love to hear from you.
Auditions
Interested in performing with SOCO?
We’re always looking to connect with talented and passionate musicians. Whether you’re a professional player, educator, or advanced student, we’d love to hear from you.Fill out our Musician Interest Form below or email us at [email protected] to be added to the roster and receive future concert invitations.
Musician Interest Form
Youth Chorus Form
Thank you
We’ve received your message and a member of our team will get back to you as soon as possible.Whether you’re a musician, supporter, or community member, we’re grateful for your interest in helping us bring world class music to South Orange County.We look forward to connecting with you soon!