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
Anthony Zueck
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
Coming soon.
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
Carmen Marquez
Irene Kang
Grace Lee
Violas
Gina Caviar
Janine Lai
Cellos
Maura Phelps
Basses
Flutes
Ricky Medina
Clarinets
Daniel Hernandez
Dmitry Pavlyuk
Oboes
Bassoons
Horns
Trumpets
Keith Ransons
Trombones
Tubas
Alex Tran
Derek Zimmerman
Gregory Barnes
Joe Mora
Logan Westerviller
Michael Salgado
Nathan Tang
Timpani
Deniz Aktas
Percussion
Ethan Schneider
Greg Ozment
Matthew Smith
Keyboard
Alexis Ohmar
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
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 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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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".
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.
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/
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 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!
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
Keith Ransons - Operations Manager
Emma Clausen - Intern
Hitesh Benny - Intern
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.
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 6-12. 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 18, 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, tuition, and rehearsal schedule, please fill out the form below.
Donations
The South Orange County Orchestra is made possible through the generosity of our community. Your gift today helps us bring professional orchestral music to South Orange County, support our musicians, and build educational programs like the upcoming SOCO Youth Chorus.Because we are a brand new organization, we are currently in the process of applying for nonprofit status. At this time, donations are not yet tax deductible, but every contribution directly supports our musicians, concerts, and outreach.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!