Artist Roster

Yasmine Abuelhija is a cellist with experience performing in various ensembles across Southern California and Utah. She is a recent graduate of the University of Utah, where she studied under Dr. Elliott Cheney and performed with the Utah Philharmonia, the university’s premiere orchestra. Her orchestral experience also includes previous positions with the Salt Lake Symphony, Orange County Community Symphony Orchestra, and the Orange County Youth Symphony. Her performance experience spans a wide range of musical styles, including work with the Los Angeles Arab Orchestra, where she performs traditional and contemporary Middle Eastern repertoire.

Yasmine has participated in notable music festivals such as the ARIA International Music Academy in South Hadley, MA, where she studied with renowned cellists Mihai Tetel, Steven Doane, Dmitry Kouzov, Stephen Balderston, Paul York, and Bruce Uchimura. She was also awarded an apprenticeship to participate in the 2023 National Music Festival in Chestertown, MD. 

Passionate about connecting with the community through music, Yasmine is also the founder of Giving Bach Performing Arts, a nonprofit organization that brings monthly performances to senior homes. She enjoys collaborating with other musicians to bring chamber music and major repertoire to audiences with limited access to classical concerts. In addition to community service, Yasmine has experience teaching private cello lessons to young musicians and beginner cellists. 

My music journey began through my school music program, where I was first introduced to the cello. I immediately fell in love with the process of learning, challenging myself, and finding ways to play music with others. The cello quickly became a place for me to express myself and has brought me to meet lots of new people, make meaningful connections, and experience lasting memories. Playing for the community has shown me the real impact that music can have, which continues to guide my work as a musician. I feel so grateful to have the ability to play an instrument that can connect and resonate with people at different stages of life. Music will always hold the most special place in my heart!

Cyrus Alva is a trumpet player, educator, and composer dedicated to music as a medium for connection, innovation, and community engagement. He is a recent graduate of the University of California, Los Angeles, where he studied with Professors Jens Lindemann and David Washburn.

Cyrus has performed with a wide range of leading ensembles and artists, including the San Francisco Symphony Youth Orchestra, Santa Rosa Symphony, UCLA Philharmonia, and Gay Freedom Band of Los Angeles. Most recently, he was appointed principal trumpet of the Civic Orchestra of Los Angeles. He is also a founding member of Kodiak Brass, a Los-Angeles based brass quintet.

Cyrus is a passionate advocate for new music — regularly commissioning, performing, and recording works by contemporary composers. A devoted educator, he also serves as a substitute teaching artist with the musical ensembles at Heart of Los Angeles (HOLA), a non-profit organization committed to providing free, high-quality education to underserved communities.

Music has always been a constant in my life. My father and mother are both musicians, and some of my earliest memories are of them playing music together in our house. I began playing my grandfather’s cornet at the age of nine, and have loved playing trumpet ever since. Playing classical music has always given me community, friendship, and the ability to express who I am, and I cannot imagine doing anything different.

Clarinetist Grigorii Avetisian was born in Saint Petersburg, Russia, in 1999. His musical career started at the Central Music School based on the State Conservatory (class of Professor Andrey Bolshiyanov). In 2022, he completed his education at St. Petersburg Conservatory and moved to the US to continue his studies at California State University Fullerton. From 2014-2017 he was the principal clarinetist of the Vasiliev-Ostrov touring chamber orchestra. Every year, the chamber orchestra visited over 10 European countries, and during his latest tour, Grigorii performed Weber clarinet concerto No 1. In 2015, he was the soloist at the festival “Days of Russian Culture in Hungary”, being the youngest musician there. He participated in the Summer Chamber Academy in Mürren, Switzerland, in 2016 and 2017.

Grigorii is the laureate of the Russian Young Performers’ Competition in St. Petersburg, 2011 (First place), the Petersburg Spring competition for woodwinds, 2013 (First place), the IV International Music Competition in Stockholm, 2015 (First place), and the international N. A. Rimsky-Korsakov Woodwinds and Brass competition, 2016 (Third place).

Grigorii has worked with many conductors such as Valerii Gergiev, Yuri Temirkanov, Teodor Curentzis, Mariss Jansons and others. He has performed at numerous concert halls, including Carnegie Hall, St. Petersburg State Philarmony, State Capella, Mariinsky Theatre, Tchaikovsky Concert Hall and others.

I was born and raised in Saint-Petersburg in Russia. I was handed my first instrument, which was the clarinet, at the age of 6, unsure if it was the best fit for me. My first encounter with Mussorgsky’s Boris Godunov and visiting the Mariinsky Theater was what inspired me to study music. My mom witnessed how passionate I was and still am with music, so she supported me through sending me to the central music school in Saint-Petersburg to further my musical knowledge.

Cayden Bloomer is an oboist from the quaint coastal town of Pacific Grove, California, famously known as “Butterfly Town, U.S.A.” He is currently a fourth-year pursuing a Bachelor of Music in Performance at UCLA, where he studies with Dr. Jonathan Davis. Cayden has spent recent summers at the Brevard Music Center, the Hidden Valley Institute of the Arts as a Festival of Winds fellow, and the Kent Blossom Music Festival, where he performed alongside members of The Cleveland Orchestra.

Cayden has appeared at the Monterey and San Jose Jazz Festivals, the Santa Cruz Baroque Festival, and the Carmel Bach Festival. Most recently, he performed the Vaughan Williams Concerto as a guest soloist with the Diablo Symphony Orchestra and the UCLA Philharmonia after winning the 2024 Yen Liang Concerto Competition and the 2025 UCLA All-Star Competition.

At UCLA, Cayden is an active chamber musician in the Gluck Fellows Program, bringing educational and engaging performances to a wide range of community venues across Los Angeles County.

From a young age, I listened to a lot of opera with my grandpa, whose brother was a professional tenor. Most of the operas were in Italian, and even though I didn’t understand the words, the music always spoke to me. I started piano lessons when I was seven, then later picked up the saxophone and clarinet in school. For me, it’s never really been about the instrument itself; music has always felt like its own language, one I’ve wanted to understand more deeply. Playing the oboe lets me express what words often can’t and reminds me why I fell in love with music in the first place.

Recently appointed as the principal timpanist of the New Mexico Philharmonic, Tyler Brown is currently finishing a master’s degree in Percussion Performance at the University of Southern California’s Thornton School of Music, studying under Jim Babor and Joe Pereira of the Los Angeles Philharmonic. He graduated Magna Cum Laude from the Lamont School of Music at the University of Denver in 2024 with a Bachelors of Music in Percussion Performance, earning top honors such as Outstanding Senior in Performance. During his studies, Tyler spent a semester abroad at the renowned Malmö Academy of Music in Malmö, Sweden.

His festival appearances include the Brevard Music Festival (TA-ship), Spoleto Festival USA, two summers at TAPS (Ted Atkatz Percussion Seminar), and two summers at the Aspen Music Festival, where he served as the ACA timpani fellow in 2025. In 2023, Tyler was a semi-finalist at the Modern Snare Drum Competition in Cleveland, OH. In addition to university ensembles, he has had the opportunity to perform with orchestras such as the Colorado Symphony, Denver Philharmonic, and Boulder Symphony.

My journey with the drums began at age 9, inspired by watching my friend’s dad’s garage band. I soon joined my elementary school’s music program, where my teacher encouraged my parents to enroll me in private lessons. In high school, I was introduced to classical music when I joined a nearby youth orchestra. Since then, I’ve been dedicated to honing my craft and appreciate every opportunity to perform for an audience.

Celine Chen, from Valencia, California, is a fourth-year student at the University of Southern California, where she studies flute with Catherine Karoly and piccolo with Sarah Jackson. She currently serves as president of the USC Student Symphony Orchestra and performs with the USC Thornton Symphony and Thornton Winds.

Most recently, she won second prize in the USC Concerto Competition and was a semifinalist in the Flute Society of Greater Philadelphia’s Young Artist Competition. She has also received honors from the MTNA National Competitions, The Music Center’s Spotlight, the Medici International Competition, and the American Protégé International Romantic Competition. Additional distinctions include the Colburn School Herbert Zipper Scholar Award, the William Grant Still Arts Center Scholarship, and a National YoungArts Merit Award.

Outside of performing, Celine shares her passion for music through her role as Senior Director of Global Operations for the Back to Bach Project, an international organization with over 70 chapters dedicated to inspiring the next generation through music and the arts. At USC, she also works as a research assistant at the Brain and Creativity Institute, contributing to projects that explore the relationship between music and the brain. She hopes her research will help illuminate the impact of music on both musicians and non-musicians alike.

I first began my musical journey at the age of four when I started playing the piano, and I picked up the flute five years later. Over time, performing became where I felt most alive. The energy of being on stage, sharing music with others, and communicating through sound inspired me to commit to music as a profession.

Nathan Culcasi is a freelance trombone player and music educator based in Los Angeles, CA. A graduate of UCLA, Nathan performs professionally in a variety of settings, including symphony orchestras, jazz ensembles, musical pit orchestras, brass quintets, and recording session ensembles. Recently he has worked with the Santa Monica Symphony, New West Symphony, Jens Lindemann’s Big Band, and recorded alongside RAIGN on a live studio album.

Nathan has also won multiple awards in solo and chamber competitions, including the UCLA “All-Star” Concerto Competition and the ITA Trombone Quartet Competition. He teaches music for Harmony Project, YOLA, and SMMUSD, and aims to instill simple, accessible methods for students to succeed on their own musical journey.

I developed a love for music at an early age, influenced by my dad who listened CDs constantly and played rock guitar and piano every night. I gravitated to music because it was so fun and interesting, and I was inspired to learn piano like my dad and eventually I took up trombone to join band in school. My passion for listening combined with a joy for making music, and as I got older I realized that all my free time was occupied with musical activities. When college decisions came around I couldn’t imagine sacrificing my desire to make music at a high level to pursue a career in something else, and thus it became obvious to me that I should dedicate my life to becoming a professional musician.

Myko Crisostomo is a dedicated and versatile clarinetist with experience in orchestral, wind band, and chamber music. Myko has performed with esteemed ensembles such as the California Young Artist Symphony, San Gabriel Symphony, CSUF University Orchestra, CSULB University Orchestra, and Afro American Chamber Music Society, among others.

A graduate of California State University, Long Beach (CSULB), where he earned his Bachelor of Music in 2024, Myko studied under Chris Stoutenborough. He is currently studying at California State University, Fullerton, under the mentorship of Michael Yoshimi and Andrew Lowy.

I began my journey in music in 7th grade when I joined band. I initially wanted to be in the percussion section but my friends convinced me to play clarinet. I would later switch to other instruments, such as tuba and trumpet in high school, but ultimately returned to clarinet in college. What inspired me to commit to music as a profession was a Los Angeles Philharmonic neighborhood concert at my high school. That was the first time I’ve ever seen a professional orchestra and I have been obsessed ever since.

Currently pursuing bachelor degrees in violin performance and music education, Johannes Eberhart is active as a violinist, violist, conductor, and educator. He plays violin with the UCLA Philharmonia and has attended festivals such as the Borromeo Chamber Music Festival and Interlochen. As a violist he performed Mahler’s 6th Symphony with UCLA Philharmonia at Disney Hall and has performed baroque viola with the Los Angeles Camerata. 

He has a passion and commitment to conducting as well, serving as music director for the Con Brio String Orchestra as well having conducted UCLA’s saxophone studio and put together his own conducting recitals on campus. Furthermore, he will be collaborating with UCLA faculty and students in two performances of Hermann’s Psycho Suite, which he will be conducting in November. He was accepted to a masterclass with the United Europe Orchestra and has attended workshops at NIU and GMU. 

As an educator, Johannes teaches violin and viola for Lyon Music and maintains a small private studio. 

He is extremely excited to be playing with the California Young Artist Symphony for his second year. 

I began my musical journey with the violin in the 4th grade with my elementary school’s music program. I found the collaboration and cooperation in music to be very fulfilling and because of that I have sought any opportunity to play in orchestras, chamber groups, and other ensembles. This love of cooperation is what led me to my goal of being a conductor. My music teachers in middle school and high school have inspired me a great deal to pursue this dream through opportunities such as directing musical theater performances and leading the orchestra in concerts.

Lauren Goff is a horn player from Commerce Township Michigan, and is a current graduate student at the University of Southern California studying with Julie Landsman. She previously studied with Jeff Scott and Roland Pandolfi at the Oberlin Conservatory of Music. During her time at Oberlin she had the opportunity to perform at Carnegie hall twice with the Oberlin Orchestra. Lauren has performed with many different orchestral, wind, and chamber ensembles, including the Sarasota music festival in the summer of 2023.

I grew up in Commerce, Michigan and started playing horn in 6th grade. I’ve been in love with the instrument ever since then. I started taking horn seriously in order to start pursuing my dream of being a member of a professional orchestra someday. I decided to attend the Interlochen Arts Academy for my senior year of high school to help me get closer to that dream and have continued on my journey to live out that dream ever since then.

Rachel Harrington is a violist finishing her Bachelor’s in Music Performance at Pepperdine University under the instruction of Evan Antes and Karolina Naziemiec, as well as in the studio class of Alexander Treger.

Rachel spent two summers at the Adirondacks Performing Arts Festival in New York and another summer at the Heidelberg Summer Chamber Music Program in Germany, and has performed an extensive repertoire of chamber music. In 2025, she won the Thomas S. Osborn Competition and Chloe Ross Music Scholarship and serves as principal violist and orchestra manager in the Pepperdine Symphony. Originally from Oakland, Rachel now teaches and performs with the Pepperdine String Quartet in the Los Angeles area.

My entire life has been surrounded by music, as I grew up in a musical family and have played in an orchestra for almost as long as I can remember. I started on piano and violin, but fell in love with the deeper, resonant tone of the viola. Some of the most exhilarating and fulfilling moments I’ve ever experienced have been in orchestra and chamber performances, and I love being part of a group of musicians playing as a connected, flowing unit.

Evan Heidebrink is a cellist from Anaheim, California. Over the last 19 years, he developed a strong foundation in both solo and orchestral performance. Evan served as Principal Cellist with the California State University Fullerton Orchestra, the Orange County Youth Symphony, and the California Orchestra Institute. He has performed with leading ensembles including the Civic Orchestra of Los Angeles, and the American Youth Symphony, and now the California Young Artists Symphony. His achievements include first-place awards in the CSUF Concerto Competition, the Orange County Youth Symphony Concerto Competition, and the Los Angeles Golden Classical Music Awards.

I was inspired to start music after watching a video recording of Tchaikovsky’s Fourth Symphony. I initially began playing the violin, but the cello always felt more natural, so I switched after just a few months. Over the years, I have performed with many ensembles because music has a uniquely collaborative quality, and orchestras represent the largest standardized group of musicians. I hope to continue performing in orchestras for many years to come.

Rebecca Huynh, originally from San Diego, is currently a graduate student studying with Catherine Karoly at the University of Southern California. She has won first prizes in the Byron Hester Competition and the Orchestral Audition and Masterclass Competition at the National Flute Association Convention 2024, and she was also a quarterfinalist for the Young Artist Competition at the National Flute Association Convention 2025. Rebecca attended the National Repertory Orchestra in 2024 and performed as a substitute musician for the New World Symphony in their second concert of the 2025-2026 season. She has performed in many concert venues across the U.S. such as Carnegie Hall, Walt Disney Hall, and, most recently, the New World Center.

Previously, Rebecca received her masters at the University of Texas at Austin and her bachelors at the University of California Santa Barbara. Her past teachers include Ebonee Thomas, Marianne Gedigian, Jill Felber, and Diana Morgan.

Back in my family home, my siblings and I grew up listening to classical music. My mother teaches private piano lessons from home and my personal musical journey began by learning piano around the age of 6. I quickly gave up and started on flute in elementary school. Joining the local youth orchestras and school bands gave me community and inspired newer ways to express myself musically. I knew then that I wanted to pursue an orchestral career to play alongside my colleagues!

A native of Southern California, Scott grew up in Bountiful, Utah, where he began playing the violin at the age of ten. He recently completed his Master’s of Music in Violin Performance degree at California State University: Northridge (CSUN) under the tutelage of Lorenz Gamma. He was awarded a scholarship and position in the CSUN Honors Quartet for both years, serving as both first and second violin. In the CSUN orchestra, he often served as principal second violin, associate concertmaster, as well as concertmaster for Mozart’s The Magic Flute. He received his Bachelor’s of Music degree from San Diego State University, studying with Pei-Chun Tsai and Isaac Allen. Scott has also been privileged to perform in master classes given by Dylana Jenson, and to study extensively with Michael Tseitlin, both of whom made significant contributions to his musicianship.

Throughout this time, from before music school and beyond, Scott has enjoyed wide ranging performance opportunities. From playing over a thousand shows on an electric-acoustic violin in a rock band, to working as a soloist with choirs, to freelance performances in the San Diego and Los Angeles area, including with the San Diego Master Chorale and LA-based Tonality, Scott most enjoys finding intimate ways to connect with his audiences to create meaningful and lasting experiences. No stranger to recording, his most recent endeavor, the album Band of Wizards released in early 2025, with a sophomore recording completed in October of the same year. Addison Bennet, Aidan Neuman, and Zack Cruz bring their talents to create a unique listening experience that combines whimsical compositions, cooperative storytelling, and varied genres to the album. In addition to playing with CYAS, Scott is also a member of the Channel Islands Chamber Orchestra (CHICO).

Scott has also been a dedicated teacher and enjoys working with many students, helping to guide them in their individual journeys toward mastery of violin playing by passing on what was given to him by his own mentors. He currently works in the Oak Park school district as a music coach, and has a private studio in Thousand Oaks.

I first began my journey in music by listening to Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4 and being inspired to play an instrument. I decided to commit to music as a profession because of the opportunities to travel the world and perform in concert halls. I’m driven to continually improve my technique and musical abilities to open new avenues for performance.

 Nathan Jones is a Master of Music student in horn performance at the University of California, Los Angeles. He presently holds the position of third horn with the California Young Artists Symphony.

Early in his professional career, Nathan has taken steps toward making a name for himself in the international horn community. Most recently, Nathan was a winner of the Alpine Symphony Competition at the 55th International Horn Symposium in Montréal, Canada, granting him a performance alongside members of the Berlin Philharmonic horn section. Nathan was also a winner of the 2024 Symphony Orchestra Concerto Competition at the University of Nevada, Reno, where he performed the Franz Strauss Horn Concerto. In 2023 Nathan was a national finalist in the MTNA Young Artist Brass Competition.

As an ensemble player, Nathan is an active freelancer. He has performed as a guest section member of Maestro Shardad Rohani’s Roudaki Orchestra, the Eastern Sierra Chamber Orchestra in Mammoth Lakes, the Toccata Tahoe Symphony, and the Reno Pops Orchestra. This past summer, he enjoyed taking the stage at the Warner Bros. recording studio as a part of the LAFCI Film Studio Intensive. In the summer of 2023 Nathan took his horn to his birth country of Italy, participating in the Festival Cornistico Dell’Etna. At this festival, Nathan was fortunate to work with Yun Zeng, Angelo Bonaccorso, José Sogorb Jover, and Francesco Mattioli.

Nathan actively pursues performance opportunities, and has performed in several masterclasses with iconic artists, including David Cooper, Katy Woolley, Elizabeth Freimuth, Martin Hackleman, and Kevin Newton among others.

Nathan is a recent graduate of the University of Nevada, Reno, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in business marketing, and was also an applied music student. In the Nevada School of Music, Nathan held principal roles in the Nevada Wind Ensemble and Symphony Orchestra. Nathan was also a member of the University Woodwind Quintet, Horn Pack Ensemble, and was a founding member of the Jones Duo, which he shares with his pianist sister Emily.

Nathan is a current member of the UCLA Philharmonia, Brass Ensemble, and Horn Ensemble. He is a student of Amy Sanchez in the Herb Alpert School of Music. His former mentors include Dr. Natalie Brooke Higgins and Ms. Christine Geiger.

I began my musical journey taking childhood piano lessons. Raised in a musical family, my Mom (an opera vocalist) especially inspired me to pursue my passion for music. I switched from piano to horn at age 11, and since then have met some of the best horn players in the world. Fueled by their passion for music, I decided that a master’s degree at UCLA would be my opportunity to take advantage of!

Kiana Kawahara is currently pursuing her Master’s Degree in Flute Performance at the University of Southern California, where she is studying with Catherine Karoly, Associate Principal Flute of the Los Angeles Philharmonic. At USC, Kiana performs with multiple ensembles and chamber groups. Previously, she studied with Regents Professor Mary Karen Clardy at the University of North Texas. Originally from O’ahu, Hawai’i, Kiana has enjoyed working as a traveling freelancer and performing within the Southern California area. 

My love of music was encouraged by my family from a young age. I started on piano and violin, and eventually picked up the flute when I started band class in middle school. Through my family’s support, I started taking private lessons, and it was then that I realized how much I enjoyed the flute and performing. Once I started playing in an orchestra, I knew it was something that I would want to do as a career.

Raised in Northern California, Jimin is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Violin Performance at the Bob Cole Conservatory of Music where she studies under Dr. Moni Simeonov and Dr. Madalyn Parnas Moller. 

From an early age, she has been an active and passionate ensemble musician, performing in a variety of orchestral and chamber settings. At the age of fourteen, she joined Young People’s Symphony Youth Orchestra as a second violinist and participated in their international tour to Canada. She was also an active participant in the Crowden School’s chamber program where she performed regularly in community outreach concerts and local events. 

In addition to her performance experience, Ms. Kim has demonstrated artistic leadership through her role as Music Director of The Symphonics, an ensemble dedicated to community engagement through performance. She has also attended the Brevard Music Festival, performing a wide range of orchestral repertoire alongside distinguished artists such as Benjamin Sung and Peter Otto.

My musical journey began when my mother first taught me piano at the age of five. Recognizing my love for music, she encouraged me to explore the violin soon after. Although the instruments and making harmony was really inspiring to me and it still inspires me to play trombone and music.

Minjae Kim graduated from the Seoul Art Highschool and is now a second year bachelor’s student at Colburn school studying with Professor David Rejano Cantero. Minjae has performed works by Jim Pugh, Ropartz, Dutellieux, Faleris, David, and Casterade. Minjae was the finalist of 2023 International trombone festival solo competition (Age 22 under) and the winner of the American trombone workshop solo competition division 2. He was also the tenor trombone fellow of Tanglewood music center 2024.

I first started playing trombone when I was 13 years old at elementary school orchestra. Playing with other instruments and making harmony was really inspiring to me and it still inspires me to play trombone and music.

Bella Hyojeong Kim is a skilled violinist and dedicated educator from South Korea. She began violin lessons at the age of five and quickly developed a passion for diverse musical styles, including classical and new-age music. At just nine years old, she made her debut concert appearance and continued to perform in various concert settings throughout her youth. Bella studied at prestigious institutions in Korea, including Yewon Art Middle School and Seoul Art High School, before moving to the United States to study under Yuki Mori and Min-Jung Park, both students of the legendary Jascha Heifetz.

A former concertmaster of the Goyang Youth Symphony, Bella performed with renowned cellist Young-Chang Cho at Aram Hall and led the orchestra for two years. She has won numerous awards, including 1st place in competitions such as Music Journal, Hanmi, Ara, Sungjung, and the MTAC Music Scholarship Competition (Los Angeles Branch). Bella’s professional career includes recording film soundtracks at Capitol Records and The Bridge Recording, contributing to projects for Netflix films Beverly Hills Cop Axel and Megan Leavy.

In 2016, Bella performed as a member of the orchestra at Walt Disney Hall and began her studies as a Music Performance major at Azusa Pacific University, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in 2022. She continues to teach and perform, serving as a member of the Civic Orchestra of Los Angeles and as concertmaster of the Rise Orchestra in 2023.

I was introduced to music at a young age, growing up in a home where my mother, a pianist, ran a music academy. I initially played the piano but switched to the violin due to my small hands. Over time, I discovered the power of music as a universal language, especially when I performed for senior centers and saw how my music brought comfort and connection to others. The joy of helping people through music inspired me to pursue it as a lifelong profession.

Starting violin at the age of five, Makiba Kurita has studied with teachers including Anne Donahue, Nelson Lee, Stefan Milenkovich, Movses Pogossian, and Varty Manouelian. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Violin Performance from the University of Illinois and is currently pursuing her Master’s degree in Violin Performance at UCLA’s Herb Alpert School of Music. Throughout her career, she has won numerous competitions such as the Conant Concerto Competition, the Paul Rolland Violin Competition, and the Thomas J. Smith Competition.

Beyond classical performance, Makiba also shares her passion for Japanese pop music through her YouTube channel Coronyan Violin, where she covers Japanese pop, film, and anime music. Her performances have led to international opportunities, including appearances at the Young Artists Bayreuth Festival in Germany and collaborations with musicians across Japan. In her free time, Makiba enjoys cooking, gaming, and spending time with friends.

My journey in music began with my violin teacher, Anne Donahue, who taught me to value the joy and emotion behind music rather than focusing on competition or achievement. When she passed away from breast cancer four years ago, it deeply affected me and changed how I viewed music. For a while, I struggled to find the same sense of purpose and connection, but over time I realized that what she gave me was something I could pass on to others. Her passion and kindness inspired me to continue playing and to share the same love of music she instilled in me. That experience made me want to dedicate my life to music. Not just as a performer, but as someone who helps others find joy through it too.

Nga Ieng (Sabrina) Lai is a percussionist from Macao currently pursuing her Master of Music in Percussion Performance at the University of Southern California, where she studies with Joseph Pereira and James Babor. She earned her Bachelor of Music in Percussion Performance from the New England Conservatory of Music, where she studied under Timothy Genis and Daniel Bauch.

An active orchestral and solo performer, Nga Ieng has performed with ensembles including the Portsmouth Symphony Orchestra, Symphony New Hampshire, and the Macao Orchestra. She has also participated in international festivals such as Spoleto Festival USA, the Round Top Festival Institute, the Boston Philharmonic Youth Orchestra Greece Tour, and the Festival International de Música de Marvão.

Recognized for her versatility and dedication to musical excellence, Nga Ieng continues to develop her artistry through performances and collaborations that bridge cultural and contemporary influences in percussion.

I was introduced to music through the piano when I was five years old. When I was thirteen, I began learning percussion, which opened up a whole new world of sound and rhythm for me. I later joined a youth orchestra, where I discovered my passion and love for orchestral playing. I’m deeply drawn to the way music allows me to express myself without words, and I love the connection that comes from making music with others. Nothing else gives me the same sense of fulfillment as performing, and that’s why I chose to become a professional musician.

Originally from Ventura, California, Nic Lampert began playing viola in 7th grade and later joined the Honors String Ensemble in high school, studying with violist Diane Gilbert. He attended Idyllwild Arts ChamberFest in 2021 and 2022, and received the National Orchestra Award his senior year. Nic is currently a senior at California State University, Northridge (CSUN), pursuing a Bachelor of Music in Viola Performance under the guidance of Dr. Wendy Richman and Dr. Lorenz Gamma. In 2023, he was honored with the CSUN Music Department’s Outstanding Freshman Award, voted on by the full-time faculty. He is graduating from CSUN in the Spring of 2026 and plans to continue his studies in graduate school.

As a performer, Nic is a member of the California Young Artists Symphony, San Gabriel Valley Symphony, CSUN Honors String Quartet, and the CSUN Symphony. He has also performed with the Pasadena Symphony, Idyllwild Arts Academy Orchestra, Eastern Sierra Symphony, Tonality Music, Moorpark Symphony, and Grammy Award-winning artists Serj Tankian of System of a Down and Adrian Younge. In 2024, Nic traveled overseas to attend the Borromeo Music Festival in Switzerland, and in 2025 participated in the Prague Summer Nights Young Artists Festival in the Czech Republic and Austria. He has performed in masterclasses with Travis Maril (San Diego State University) and Daphne Gerling (University of North Texas), and chamber masterclasses with Laurence Oldak (CCR de Paris), Irina Kataeva, Juan Miguel Hernandez (Royal Academy of Music), Xi Chen (Central Conservatory of Music), Brightwork Ensemble, and Paradise Winds. Outside of music, Nic enjoys car camping, spending time with friends, and eating ramen.

I first began playing music in 7th grade in the beginning strings class, my teacher asked me if I wanted to violin and I said no, she put me on viola and I never looked back. I continued with music throughout high school and participating in the Idyllwild Arts ChamberFest program for a few summers. When it came to figure out where I would be applying to university, I realized that music was the only thing I could see myself doing in the future. I applied for a few schools but ultimately decided to attend CSUN, and it’s been a dream being able to do what I love every day.

Chloe’s musical journey began at the tender age of four, blossoming into a dedicated pursuit when she joined the orchestra at Kadima Conservatory just a year later. Her involvement in music expanded through participation in the SCSBOA honors orchestra during middle school and enriching summer programs like Idyllwild Arts, the Sequoia Chamber Workshop at Cal Poly Humboldt, Interlochen, and the Montecito Music Festival. These opportunities not only honed her skills but also allowed her to collaborate with talented musicians and mentors, broadening her perspective and deepening her love for music. A highlight of her recent musical endeavors was performing the Elgar Cello Concerto with the CSUN Youth Philharmonic last year, an experience that affirmed her dedication to music.

While music holds a central place in my heart, I am also drawn to the field of medicine and aspire to become a pediatric surgeon. Music serves as a source of balance in my life, providing a calming influence amidst the challenges of academics. I believe that my passion for both music and medicine will allow me to contribute uniquely to both fields, bringing happiness the lives of others.

Alexander Lee is a timpanist and percussionist studying Percussion Performance with Gregory Goodall at the UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music. Most recently, Alexander performed with the Prague Summer Nights Festival Orchestra, where he served as Principal Timpani, touring 4 cities under the direction of Marin Alsop and John Nardolillo. A Bay Area native, he started playing percussion at the age of 5, performing with the San Francisco Symphony Youth Orchestra and the Pre-University Percussion Group.

Under the tutelage of Galen Lemmon, he has been a prize winner for numerous solo competitions, including the Percussive Arts Society California Competitive Festival and the Great Plains International Marimba Competition in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. He has been selected to perform with various honors ensembles, including the California All-State Honor Band and Orchestra for 6 consecutive years. Outside of music, Alexander is an avid sports fan, playing basketball, volleyball, football, spikeball, and golf on the weekends, as well as rooting for his Bay Area teams.

My percussion journey began when I was five years old, after my parents enrolled me in a group percussion class. What started as a fun and interactive introduction to music quickly grew into a deep passion and a desire to perform seriously. Over time, I came to appreciate the unique opportunities music offers, such as traveling and performing around the world, exploring different musical styles, and collaborating with other talented and passionate musicians. I’m incredibly grateful for the experiences music has given me, and I hope to inspire and share that same joy with future generations of young musicians.

Ian Lee is a 10th grader in West Ranch High School. He started his cello studies at the age of 7, and was the principal cellist of the California State University Northridge Youth Symphony Orchestra. In 2024, he won first place in the Santa Clarita Symphony Orchestra Youth Concerto Competition and made his orchestra debut in the following concert. In 2022, he won first place in the Antelope Valley Bach Competition and was invited to perform the solo during the performance of the Antelope Valley Symphony Orchestra. He was the first place winner of both Satori Summer Music Festival and National League of Performing Arts in 2020, and the 3rd place winner of Enkor Competition the same year. In the summer of 2023, Ian had a masterclass with Alan Stepansky, a professor at the Peabody School of Music, and later that year, was a prize winner of ASTA. In addition, Ian was also a scholarship winner of the Los Angeles Violoncello Society Scholarship Audition. 

When I was young, I’ve always wanted to try playing an instrument and performing music for others, and I’ve always liked how the cello sounded, so I chose the cello. Ever since then, I realized how much I enjoyed playing the cello, so that inspired me to commit to music.

Jamily Lee is a Taiwanese-American violinist currently studying violin performance at UCLA under the dual studio of Varty Manouelian and Movses Pogossian. An alumna of the San Francisco Symphony Youth Orchestra from 2021-‘24, her passion for orchestral music has continually developed in summer festivals such Chautauqua Institution in the School of Music ‘25, where she played alongside musicians of the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra for a Mahler symphony concert, and at Round Top Festival Institution ‘23 where she played as concertmaster for the children’s concert. In 2022, Jamily took part in the Taipei Music Academy & Festival and the Sounding Point Academy at the Colburn School. As a chamber musician, Jamily has performed with esteemed artists such as Cho-Liang Lin, Ilya Kaler, Frank Huang, and Cynthia Phelps. She has also played in masterclasses and private lessons for Regis Pasquier, Almita Vamos, and Midori. Jamily looks forward to playing in CYAS and an upcoming concert in Jacob Collier’s first ever audience orchestra at Davies Symphony Hall. 

I grew up surrounded by classical music—my mom would play Mozart or Bach at home ever since I was a baby, and I attended many orchestral concerts throughout my childhood. My orchestral experience growing up led me to pursue music, as I felt the shared emotions through music and how it connected us beyond language barriers. 

As the 2023 1st Place Award winner of the National Association of Negro Musicians (NAMN) Strings Competition, the viola and Solomon Leonard go hand in hand. He is a 22-year-old recent graduate of Oberlin Conservatory under Peter Slowik, while currently a master’s student at the USC Thornton School of Music under Karen Dreyfus. His breadth of study includes Black American Music and Carnatic Music in addition to European Classical Music on the viola. He also studies West African Folkloric Mande Music, Havana-Bata Music, and more as a “world” drummer. 

 Contributing greatly to the love and joy of the viola, and music overall, are diverse performing opportunities. He has performed in orchestras and chamber ensembles at various music festivals in Europe, Mexico, and the US. He was a featured soloist in the 2024 Gateways Music Festival in Chicago and performed in 2024’s Dance Africa at Kennedy-King College with Djapo Cultural Arts Institute. Other venues include the Walt Disney Concert Hall with Icyola, Orchestra Hall at Symphony Center Chicago with the Credo Music Festival, Carnegie Hall with the Oberlin Orchestra, and Crypto.com Arena (Staples Center) on the 2020 Grammys alongside Joshua Bell, Lang Lang, Common, Camila Cabello, and more.

In addition to studying with Peter Slowik at Oberlin Conservatory, Solomon has primarily studied with Dr. Minor Wetzel, a member of the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Other viola players he has studied with include Juan Miguel Hernandez, Asdis Vadimarsdottir, Thorunn Osk Marinosdottir, Lawrence Dutton and Tabea Zimmerman.

My musical journey began at the age of 5 with the recorder and then the piano. I began playing the viola in the 6th grade at the age of 11. The unique sound of the viola spoke to me and with each piece I learned to play, I knew that playing the viola in various genres of music would be my career. It was in high school that I realized that music was my gift to the world.

Davis Lerner is an active bassoonist, performer, and educator in Southern California, currently pursuing a DMA in bassoon performance at UCLA. He received his MM in bassoon performance from the UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music and a BA in Music from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. His principal teachers include John Steinmetz, Lisa Nauful, and Dr. Rebecca Rivera. He is also a proud Life Member of the Iota Pi chapter of Kappa Kappa Psi, the National Honorary Band Service Fraternity.

Davis is not only a passionate performer but a dedicated teacher, having served as a teaching assistant for musicianship, music theory, and music history classes, as well as a coach to local middle and high school woodwind students, and teaches private bassoon students. When not playing or teaching music, Davis enjoys reading, cooking, and exploring the outdoors. 

My parents met in their college band, and ever since I can remember, I wanted to be a part of that world. I tried playing all sorts of instruments, from the piano to the trombone, drums, and percussion, and finally, in middle school, I discovered the bassoon. Instantly, I knew I wanted to keep playing this instrument forever, and after playing in orchestra, I realized that I wanted to dedicate myself to playing and teaching music.

Jacob Logback is a violist from Temecula, California who started playing the viola at age 10. He played in his school’s orchestra program throughout middle school and high school, and is currently in his 2nd year pursuing his Bachelor of Fine Arts at the California Institute of the Arts. He has performed with groups such as the Sonoma State University Orchestra, the SoCal Philharmonic, and the Temecula Valley Symphony. He has been taught by Cindy Nunag, Aaron Westman, and Andrew McIntosh.

I originally played viola in middle school and high school for fun after school. After I graduated, I met Grammy-nominated Aaron Westman, who gave me his perspective as a very accomplished musician and really inspired me to take music seriously.

Ethan Lotrario began studying bass with Eugene Jablonsky in 2014 in his hometown, Spokane Washington. He is currently an Undergraduate Music Performance Major at the University of Redlands where he studies with Dr. Scott Worthington. He has performed with the University’s choirs, orchestra, wind ensemble and jazz band as well as with the Redlands Symphony Orchestra. 

Ethan has played at summer festivals and on tours across the United States and Europe. He is so incredibly grateful to be able to play at the level that he can and share his love of music with his community. 

My journey in music began in 7th grade when I played my first concert with the Spokane Youth Symphony. It was my first experience playing with a full orchestra and an accomplished conductor. We played Shostakovich Symphony 5 and to this day that piece reminds me of the love I have and the joy I take from music.

Ella Magen is a fourth year cellist and conductor from Southern California studying at Chapman University’s Hall-Musco Conservatory of Music under Dr. Yoshika Masuda and Maestro Danko Druško. Through her decade of experience and training in the performing arts, she has gained a multitude of opportunities such as possessing an apprentice fellowship with the California Young Artists Symphony. Since her acceptance to the Hall-Musco Conservatory of Music, she has served as the principal and associate principal cellist, worked as The Chapman Orchestra’s ensemble manager for three years and counting, and received the title of Temianka Scholar for being accepted into Chapman University’s top string quartet, in which she has played in a masterclass for the Juilliard String Quartet. Her high academic achievements at the university have earned her a spot on both the Dean’s List and the Provost’s List every semester. Ella’s motivations and aspirations for her future include pursuing a Doctorate of Musical Arts with the goal of becoming a director of orchestral activities at an undergraduate university. Her passion for spreading joy through music drives her desire to inspire young musicians to do so as well.

I began my musical journey at seven years old by taking piano lessons simply as a hobby. However, I quickly found that I had a deep appreciation for the genre and, when eventually given the opportunity to learn a string instrument, I jumped at it. I have since discovered that I have a passion for teaching, and through opportunities presented to me while pursuing my conducting degree, I have become further inspired to pursue music professionally. I look forward to dedicating my future career towards making classical music a welcoming and accessible space for everyone, and passing my passions along to the next generation of young musicians. My journey in music began with piano lessons that my lovely parents signed me up for when I was four. Music has since grown to become one of my closest companions. When I realized that I want to keep walking with it and share the life I find through it as long as I’m able to, I decided to further my commitment to music and pursue it as a profession.

Stephanie Magera is a current second-year master’s student majoring in Tuba Performance at the University of Southern California in the studio of Dr. Doug Tornquist. She received her bachelor’s degree from the Eastman School of Music under the instruction of Dr. Justin Benavidez and Don Harry. Prior to her time at Eastman and USC, Stephanie was an active musician in Buffalo, New York where she grew up.

Stephanie has performed with a variety of ensembles. In recent years, she has performed with the Buffalo Philharmonic, Syracuse Orchestra, the Eastman Wind Ensemble, Eastman’s Brass Guild, the Empire Film and Media Ensemble, Los Angeles Brass Alliance, and is currently a member of the sousaphone section, and a Teaching Assistant with the Trojan Marching Band at USC. Stephanie’s playing can be heard on the LAFCI Studio Intensive Orchestra’s album The Hollywood Collection, as well as the Eastman Wind Ensemble’s album Tyzik Joyride: The Music of Jeff Tyzik.

In the summer of 2025, Stephanie was a selected competitor in the International Tuba and Euphonium Solo Artist Competition in Valencia, Spain. She also competed in the small chamber ensemble competition with the USC Tuba Quartet. The group also performed a recital at the ITEC conference.

Stephanie is also an active chamber musician, having performed in many groups such as brass quintets, tuba quartets, and brass trios.

My musical journey first began in Buffalo, New York in the Clarence Central School District. I grew up with a wonderful group of teachers who provided influence, and guided me through the very first stages of my tuba career. I’ve loved the tuba ever since I first picked it up, and I decided that it was going to be my career as soon as I found out that it was even a possibility!

Jay Maldonado is a senior at the University of Southern California studying under Karen Dreyfus. Jay has participated in a variety of summer festivals including Curtis Summerfest, Sphinx Performance Academy, YOLA National and Institute, Killington Music Festival, National Music Festival, Saarsburg Music Festival, PRISMA festival, Conservatory Audition Workshop, DALI International Festival and more. Their passion for music has allowed them to perform with distinguished groups, such as the ATLYS quartet, as well as recording for films at Warner Bros studio.

While at USC, they enrolled in the Thornton Community Engagement Program, an extensive music education-oriented program that provides unique learning opportunities for children in the local community. It was in this program that Jay found their love for teaching and sharing their knowledge about their instrument to help inspire the next generation of musicians in the Los Angeles community. Jay hopes to continue their work of community music learning in Florida, where they learned how to play their instrument through their youth program: The Greater Miami Youth Symphony. This El-Sistema inspired youth organization fosters young musicians in the south Florida community and it was here where Jay’s musical journey started. They hope to combine their experience from USC and TCEP to continue the tradition of classical music in south Florida for the next generation of young musicians, especially those of Latino heritage.

In their spare time, Jay enjoys crocheting, cooking, yoga/meditation, and exercising. They enjoy combining their hobbies to maintain a balanced lifestyle—each one benefiting the other so there’s always room for creativity.

I started playing violin when I was 5 after I heard it on a recording and got super curious. Fast forward to high school, I was encouraged to switch to viola because I really loved the deep, mellow timber. It was actually my first high school wedding gig that I decided to commit to music as a profession; it was super fun and I loved the idea that I could get paid having fun with friends. 

Natalia Martinez, born in 2009 in Glendale, California, showed early musical talent, with a love for singing, dancing, and a remarkable memory. Natalia currently studies under renowned cellist and master teacher Catherine Biagini at the Kadima Conservatory of Music. She was named a winner of the Kadima Concerto Competition three years in a row as principal cellist of the Kadima Senior Philharmonic. Natalia was admitted to the Idyllwild Arts Camp for a one-week intensive in chamber music, where she engaged in advanced ensemble training. Subsequently, she was accepted into the Montecito International Music Festival in June 2024, participating in a one-week orchestral and chamber music intensive under the guidance of distinguished faculty, including renowned cellists Robert deMaine and Ko Iwasaki. Most recently, in June 2025, Natalia was selected to join the World Youth Symphony Orchestra at the Interlochen Arts Camp.

My journey in music began with piano lessons that my lovely parents signed me up for when I was four. Music has since grown to become one of my closest companions. When I realized that I want to keep walking with it and share the life I find through it as long as I’m able to, I decided to further my commitment to music and pursue it as a profession.

Anne Mayer is a violist and current high school senior. She has served as Co-Principal Violist of the Lyceum Oaks Youth Orchestra for four years, where she was awarded the Exceptional Leadership Scholarship for her dedication. She has also received multiple Outstanding Musicianship Awards from Calabasas High School and recognition from the Calabasas City Council for her musical achievements. Anne has performed in community outreach concerts at local restaurants, churches, and youth events. 

I started playing viola in sixth grade. While most people picked violin or cello as their first instrument, I picked viola as mine for its warm and mellow tone. Playing was challenging at first because of a condition I have called clinodactyly, where both of my pinkies are bent inwards, but it pushed me to work harder and find my own way of expressing myself. I was later then introduced to CVYO by my private teacher, which overall helped me grow as a musician tremendously. Over time, rehearsals, concerts, and leading my section became some of my favorite moments and what inspires me most is that music has become a place of peace and comfort for me.

Leo is a violin performer and instrumentalist who has played in many solo and ensemble performances, participated in various music programs, and received honors for his playing. For the past four years, Leo has been an active chamber music player, participating in the Junior Chamber Music program, the Colburn Summer Chamber Intensive, and Summerfest at Lyceum Oaks. He is also a co-concertmaster and member of the Virtuosi Ensemble in the Lyceum Oaks Youth Orchestra. His performance in the Henry Schwab Violin & Viola Competition, accompanied by the Schwab Academy Orchestra, won the 3rd place prize. His chamber performances have earned honors, scholarships to the Nelli Shkolnikova Academy in France and the LOYO Summerfest, and invitations to perform in master classes hosted by CSU Northridge and the Idyllwild Arts Academy.

In addition to violin, Leo has studied the guitar, marimba, and vibraphone, all with a particular focus on jazz, and has taken advanced music theory and composition classes at Colburn School. His compositions for string quartet, reed quintet, and his symphony for vibraphone and orchestra have been performed by Colburn guest ensembles and the Colburn Youth Orchestra, providing great experience and invaluable feedback. Leo greatly appreciates the support and guidance he has received from his violin teachers, Dr. Keum Hwa Cha of the Colburn School of Music and Viktória Várkonyi of the Vienna University of Music, as well as Mr. and Mrs. Tseitlin from the Lyceum Oaks Youth Orchestra.

At the age of three, my brother inspired me to pick up the violin. Since then, I’ve discovered a deep passion for the beauty and collaboration that music offers, and it has become a vital part of my life. I actively search for any opportunity I can get to engage creatively with others through the many instruments I play, and as I continue to explore performance, theory, and composition, I maintain a deep love for music.

EJ Miranda grew up in Rancho Cucamonga, California and is currently an undergraduate at the University of Southern California. He studied at Brigham Young University from 2021 to 2023 under Dr. Jason Bergman and Jeff Luke. While at BYU, he went on concert tours to the Czech Republic, Austria, Italy, Spain, and Portugal, and played with the Utah Symphony.

After moving back to Southern California, EJ started studying with Tom Hooten and Jennifer Marotta in the Thornton school of music. He currently holds a position as a trumpet performer at The Disneyland Resort and works as a freelance musician in the Lost Angeles area.

Music for me started even before I was born. My parents met in their school wind ensemble in college each pursuing their music education degree. From the day I was born, my parents were playing Mozart in my room as I was going to sleep and I was always hearing my dad’s high school bands at their performances and competitions. As I grew up, I realized how much meaning can be packed into a piece of music and how it can make others feel the same excitement I felt. It went from a fun hobby to an earnest effort to get my friends and family to hear what I heard beyond the notes and rhythms. Now every time I play, I try to get my audience to feel the same child like inspiration that I felt when I was young.

Henry Mock is currently a graduate student in his second year of master’s degree at the University of Southern California, where he studies with Shawn Mouser, former associate principal bassoonist of the Los Angeles Philharmonic. As an active musician outside of school, Henry has experiences performing with various orchestras such as the American Youth Symphony, California Young Artists Symphony, Pacific Symphony, and the Brevard Music Center Orchestra. Throughout his career, he has had opportunities to play under conductors such as Leonard Slatkin, Keith Lockhart, Carl St. Clair, Teddy Abrams, and Andrew Gram, and has shared the stage with numerous soloists, including Yuja Wang.

As a soloist, Henry won the Bellflower Symphony Orchestra Young Artists Concerto Competition and performed the Mozart bassoon concerto. As a chamber musician, Henry was the member of the University Wind Quintet at California State University Long Beach where he earned his bachelor’s degree in bassoon performance under the tutelage of Michele Grego, second bassoonist of the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Currently, Henry actively plays with the Fine Winds quintet, performing in various venues throughout southern California.

Henry is also a passionate educator and has spent a lot of his time teaching and coaching, working with groups such as the South Coast Youth Symphony Orchestra as the winds coach. Under his mentorship, Henry’s students have held positions in the Pacific Symphony Youth Orchestra and the Colburn Youth Wind Ensemble and have been accepted into prestigious schools such as San Francisco Conservatory of Music, Peabody Institute, New York University, Oberlin Conservatory, Boston Conservatory at Berklee, and Indiana University

My musical journey first began as a clarinet player in the elementary school band. My band director saw that I was learning the clarinet quickly and suggested that I try the bassoon. I really liked it and stayed with it since then, but what really made me realize that I want to do this for the rest of my life was when my mother bought me my own bassoon in 10th grade. I was genuinely so happy that I was crying in the car on the way back home, and it was difficult to imagine my life without the bassoon. This was when I realized I wanted to major in music and pursue it as a career.

Tyler Morrison is an oboist specializing in historical and baroque oboe, with a deep passion for historically informed performance practice. Recently appointed associate principal oboe of the California Young Artists Symphony, he has also performed with Musica Transalpina, the Santa Monica Symphony, Los Angeles Baroque, and the UCLA Philharmonia. His principal teachers include Stephen Hammer, Dr. Jonathan Davis, and John Dee.

Tyler’s musical journey began in childhood with choir and recorder, and he discovered his lifelong instrument—the oboe—two years later. A devoted admirer of Bach and Mahler, he thrives in both modern and period instrument ensembles. Beyond the stage, Tyler is a certified Emergency Medical Technician and apprentice embalmer in the state of California, where he cares for families at a local funeral establishment. At home, he enjoys the quiet company of his two cats, Vincent and Binx.

 Playing in an ensemble has always made me feel at home — connected and understood in a way I seldom experience otherwise. I’m passionate about helping musical communities flourish, from local amateur ensembles to professional orchestras, because I believe music belongs to everyone. Performing allows me to take part in something larger than myself, contributing to a tradition that continues to inspire and uplift. Whether playing a modern or historical instrument, I’m constantly reminded that music bridges centuries and continues to speak to the heart.

Born and raised in Las Vegas, Aidan has been surrounded by entertainment and the arts since birth. Aidan studied the violin from an early age but soon moved to the other end of the orchestra and picked up the double bass. Aidan’s father, Dr. Geoff Neuman, became his first double bass teacher. Aidan graduated from the Las Vegas Academy of the Arts in 2020, where he studied orchestral performance.

Mr. Neuman graduated from California State University Northridge in 2024 with his Bachelor’s of Music. While there, he studied with The Los Angeles Philharmonic members Jory Herman and Kaelan Decman. Aidan is now continuing his musical journey at UCLA with the Los Angeles Philharmonic’s Principal double bassist, Chris Hanulik.

Also an active member of the southern and central California classical music scene, Aidan was appointed Principal double bass of the California Young Artists Symphony in 2024 and has been a member since 2021. He has also been a member of the San Luis Obispo Symphony since September 2023. In addition, Mr. Neuman enjoys a lively performance career in the Las Vegas and LA area including substituting with the Las Vegas Philharmonic, touring with Andrea Bocelli’s orchestra, Super Bowl LVIII recording sessions, international tours, union performances, as well as jazz and big band opportunities. 

Aidan is also a passionate teacher and holds a small private studio. He coaches at The Harvard-Westlake School and teaches 6 young and enthusiastic double bassists.

In addition to being a double bassist, Aidan loves storytelling in all mediums. Mr. Neuman is set to release his first album, Band of Wizards, in early 2025. Addison Bennett, Scott Johnson, and Zack Cruz bring their talents to create a unique listening experience that combines whimsical compositions, cooperative storytelling, and varied genres to the album. He enjoys writing short stories as well as preparing for his multi-year Dungeons and Dragons campaign.

My musical journey began in my living room with my father. He showed me how to hold the bass and how to play a scale. As I honed my skills, my father always supported and pushed me to be better. Soon enough I was sitting in the bass section performing Tchaikovsky’s 4th symphony with the Nevada All-State Orchestra and I had a transformative experience. As the 4th movement downbeat was given, chills rushed down my spine and I knew, without a doubt, I wanted to do this for the rest of my life.

Ariana O’Connell is a dynamic violinist earning her master’s degree at the University of Southern California’s Thornton School of Music, studying with Glenn Dicterow. She earned second place in the 2019 Chicago Violin Competition and first prize in the 2019 Midwest Conservatory Concerto Competition. Ariana was the Associate Concertmaster of the California Young Artists Symphony from 2022-2024 and now holds the Colburn Foundation Concertmaster Chair. She received the 2023 Kathleen and Jerry Eberhardt Scholarship while attending Music Academy as a Violin Fellow. She has also recorded solos for the Gershwin Classical Kids Live CD, and performed with Laufey, the Blue Man Group, RZA, Jimmy Kimmel Live! and more. She is currently a member of the Santa Barbara Symphony and has also performed with the Chicago Sinfonietta, San Diego Symphony, National Arts Centre Orchestra, and Dream Orchestra.

In addition to a rigorous orchestral and pop music career, Ariana also enjoys performing chamber music. She appears frequently in chamber series and competitions across the country with her quartet and piano trio. Ariana plays on a scholarship violin graciously provided by the Galvin Foundation.

The beginning of my musical road all started with a live DVD of Shania Twain on tour. She had an electric violinist – 5 year old me was obsessed, and the rest was history!

Danny began playing the cello at the age of four at the Community School of the Arts at Wheaton College in Wheaton, IL. He studied with Carol Ourada for thirteen years as well as Dr. Tanya Carey. Throughout the years, Danny has traveled all around the world with his cello including Alaska, Spain, Scotland, and Austria. He was awarded the 2016 Norman Cooper International Chamber Music Competition Senior Division 1st Place in Scotland. Danny also won the Sigma Alpha Iota La Grange Chapter competition in 2018. He has played in Symphony Center under the direction of John Nelson in the Credo Alumni Orchestra in 2019 and this past summer under David Chan in the celebration for the 25th season of Credo. In the summer of 2019, Danny was the principal cellist of the ISYM Symphony Orchestra, and the recipient of the ISYM Pre-College Scholarship, as well as the conductor’s choice of the outstanding orchestral member. Danny has also taught for three summers as a TA at a chamber music camp in Wheaton, IL called Tutti.

Recently, Danny was selected for the 2024 ASTA National Conference Collegiate Cello masterclass with guest clinician Norman Fischer. During his time at Eastman, Danny constantly premiered works by living composers around the Rochester community. Danny was also rotating principal cellist in both orchestras at Eastman, and continues to perform as principal cello with the USC Symphony as well as the California Young Artist Symphony. He also values education and spends his time working with younger musicians in order to grow their skills as people and musicians. An avid movie lover, Danny was the production assistant of the Empire Film and Media Ensemble, a group that performs live to picture performances of silent films, shorts, and movies such as LaLa Land, the 1989 classic film Batman, and Buster Keaton’s The General. Last spring, Danny graduated with his Bachelor of Music in Cello Performance and Music Education from the Eastman School of Music under the tutelage of Professor Guy Johnston and Ahrim Kim, earning High Distinction and the Alan Harris Cello Award. Danny is currently pursuing his Master’s Degree in Cello Performance at the USC Thornton School of Music in Los Angeles studying with Andrew Shulman. Besides cello, Danny spends as much time as he can outside with his dog and enjoys playing golf.

At 4 years old I began playing the cello since the other string instruments were already taken up by my older sisters. Starting on a cardboard box and wooden dowel rod, I progressed to my first real cello when I turned 5. After sticking with it for about 10 years, I realized that the cello was more than just an instrument to me. It was a way of life and a method of communication I could use for feelings that I didn’t feel comfortable expressing verbally. After playing Tchaikovsky’s 1812 overture in 2019, I realized that the musician’s path is the one that was and is waiting for me. Connecting with others through music is a special aspect that not all professions share and I’m glad that CYAS is giving me the opportunity to continue my musical journey and connect with even more fabulous musicians.

Candice Oh is a graduate student in Cello Performance at UCLA, where she studies with Ben Hong, Associate Principal Cellist of the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Born and raised in Los Angeles, she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Music Performance from California State University, Long Beach in 2024. She also spent a year studying abroad at the Hochschule für Musik Trossingen in Germany.

Candice loves performing in orchestras and collaborating with other musicians. She currently plays with the Civic Orchestra of Los Angeles, the San Luis Obispo Symphony, and CYAS. She also performs regularly with Opera Italia in downtown Los Angeles. Passionate about community engagement, Candice hopes to bring music to those who may not have access to it, especially through programs like UCLA’s Gluck Outreach Program.

Alexander Parlee is an American clarinetist and San Diego native who has been praised for his innovative and sensitive playing. He has been a prize winner in competitions throughout the United States, such as the Musical Merit Foundation Competition, Clarinet Society Competition, and the Manhattan School of Music Woodwind Concerto Competition.

Alex has performed as Principal Clarinetist with multiple orchestras, including the Civic Orchestra of Los Angeles, the American Youth Symphony, and the Orchestre de la Francophonie (Montreal). He also performed with American Composers Orchestra and Manhattan School of Music Philharmonia in New York City. His festival appearances include Domaine Forget in Quebec, Interlochen Summer Arts Festival, and Festival Napa Valley. In addition to his career as a clarinetist, Alex is also an avid classical pianist. He started playing the piano at age 4 and continued lessons and performances at Manhattan School of Music with Dr. Tianyu Deng. His favorite composers include Bach, Tchaikovsky, and Arvo Pärt. Alexander Parlee is an American clarinetist and San Diego native who has been praised for his innovative and sensitive playing. He has been a prize winner in competitions throughout the United States, such as the Musical Merit Foundation Competition, Clarinet Society Competition, and the Manhattan School of Music Woodwind Concerto Competition.

Alex is also a passionate pedagogue and has been teaching clarinet and piano in both Southern California and New York City. His approach to music education focuses on encouraging students to expand their curiosity in music through exposure to different repertoire, genres, and styles in addition to proper technique.

Alex completed his Bachelor of Music degree at Manhattan School of Music in New York City under the tutelage of Alan Kay. He is currently completing his Master of Music degree at UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music with Boris Allakhverdyan.

I first started my journey in music at the age of 4, on the piano, but what really inspired me was my high school clarinet teacher, a grad student at the time, who showed me that music can be a noble lifelong pursuit. She inspired me to major in clarinet and go to a conservatory. After becoming enthralled with the clarinet in high school, I became obsessed with classical music on a broader scale as well, listening to many famous works for the first time, and beginning my journey as a musician.

Julian Perez is a contrabassist, composer, and youth orchestra conductor who is wholly dedicated to his craft of creating music. Currently studying composition and performance at California Lutheran University, Julian also teaches both privately and with the Lyceum Oaks Youth Orchestra. There, he serves as the Principal Conductor of the Simi Valley campus where he directs two young and spirited ensembles. 

Apart from his fellowship with CYAS, Julian also performs in multiple other venues, which include symphonic and contemporary engagements, in addition to jazz ensembles and collectives, musical theater work, film scoring orchestras, rock/fusion bands, and South American-inspired folk groups which he also composes for. Julian aspires to write music for both the concert hall and the public platform all while continuing his work in performance and education. 

I began playing music simply due to an overwhelming sense of curiosity when I was 11 years-old. As soon as the opportunity became available to me through my middle school’s “beginning strings” orchestra, I joined the ensemble and persisted to make the most of what performances I had. The drive to improve and bring out the rich tones of the double bass in a variety of settings and genres is what brought me to reach for new heights in this craft. I eventually realized that the most fulfillment I’ve ever experienced has been in the pursuit of a greater level of orchestral aptitude and professionalism. 

Zachary has been fascinated by music ever since he was little. He first picked up the electric bass at age eight and began playing double bass at eleven. From there, he joined his school’s orchestra as well as the Conejo Valley Youth Orchestra. He went on to pursue a degree in Music Performance at California State University, Northridge. There, he was a member of both the Wind Ensemble and the Symphony Orchestra, serving as principal double bassist during the 2024–25 academic year. Since then, Zachary has continued his work with CYAS and begun coaching double bass sections for middle schools. His persistence and dedication to this art form have inspired him to continue playing.

Music has been a part of my life in one form or another for as long as I can remember. However, if there were one moment that made me truly commit to it, it would have been playing in the pit for my high school’s production of The Secret Garden. It was during my freshman year, and there was something about the experience that just resonated with me. I felt such a thrill from being a small part of something greater. From then on, my sights were set on pursuing music.

George Ramos III is a trumpet player from Eastvale, California, who is passionate about orchestral, solo, chamber, and jazz music. George has studied with the principal trumpet of the Pacific Symphony Barry Perkins, Kevin Mayse, and Willie Murillo. With the Pacific Symphony Youth Orchestra George has toured Europe including cities such as Prague, Czech Republic and Vienna, Austria. He had the opportunity to perform at renowned concert halls including the Musikverein and Wiener Konzerthaus.

George has played chamber music at the Colburn Community School of Performing Arts and also participated in the Colburn Jazz Workshop Big Band. He was a semifinalist in the 2025 National Trumpet Competition in both the Undergraduate Solo division and the Jazz division. George was recently featured in the 2025 Downbeat Magazine for an outstanding jazz soloist award.

My musical journey began in the 5th grade when I joined my elementary school band program. At first it began as just something that I wanted to do for fun with my friends and later grew into something that I became passionate about. My middle school band teacher Mrs. Geist is who inspired me to continue playing my instrument and showed me how powerful and joyful playing music can be especially with your closest friends. I began to learn the value of the relationships that we create through playing music and once I got to high school I decided that I would commit to music as a profession.

Born and raised in South Central Los Angeles, Andy Gonzalez Rodriguez began his musical studies through the Youth Orchestra of Los Angeles (YOLA), a program founded by Gustavo Dudamel that provides high-quality music education to underserved communities across Los Angeles. Through YOLA, he performed at venues such as the Hollywood Bowl and Walt Disney Concert Hall, collaborated with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, and toured internationally to Seoul, London, Edinburgh, and Mexico City.

He earned his undergraduate degree in Music Performance at the University of Michigan, studying under Adam Unsworth, and has performed with orchestras across Michigan including, the Adrian Symphony, Flint Symphony, Kalamazoo Symphony, and Ann Arbor Symphony. Andy is currently pursuing his Master’s degree in Music Performance at UCLA under the guidance of Amy Sanchez.

Outside of performing, Andy Gonzalez Rodriguez holds an administrative position within the Learning Department of the LA Phil where he works towards providing college preparation knowledge and support to the next generation of YOLA students and supporting fellow alumni with resources and guidance in and beyond their college careers.

My musical journey began at the age of seven, where I got the opportunity to learn basic music fundamentals through the Youth Orchestra of Los Angeles (YOLA). What began as an afterschool pastime, grew into a genuine passion and through YOLA, I received opportunities I never thought music would bring me which inspired me to pursue music as a profession. Although I am early in my career, I hope to pass on my findings in my career so far, on to the next generation of students in my community which inspires and motivates me to continue working towards my musical career.

Marcos Salgado is a junior at the USC Thornton School of Music, where he studies percussion and timpani under Joseph Pereira and James Babor. He has performed at the Hollywood Bowl and worked with conductor Gustavo Dudamel, among other distinguished artists. Marcos has attended music festivals such as the Aspen Music Festival and School, where he expanded his musical perspective and developed a deeper appreciation for collaboration within the arts. He is committed to continual growth as a musician and values the opportunity to connect with others through music, both on and off the stage.

I first began my journey in music thanks to my parents, who always encouraged me to explore creativity and express myself through sound. During my very first concert, I made a noticeable mistake, but instead of feeling discouraged, it motivated me to keep improving and never give up. Over time, I realized that music brings a deep sense of joy and purpose—not just to me, but to those who listen. That feeling of connection and shared happiness is what inspired me to commit to music as my profession.

Los Angeles-based musician Thacher Schreiber’s interests lie in maintaining a diverse repertory, from chamber and solo performances to orchestral playing. Recent engagements include performances with the California Young Artists Symphony, the Civic Orchestra of Los Angeles, and Fivemind Reeds, of which he is a founding member.

Thacher has degrees in performance from UCLA’s Herb Alpert School of Music and the New School’s Mannes School of Music, where he studied with Dr. Jonathan Davis and professor Ryan Roberts, respectively.

In addition to his work as a performer, Thacher is an avid composer, with a growing body of work featuring solo sonatas, song cycles, and orchestral showpieces. He is currently a member of the composition studio at UCLA, where he is studying with Richard Danielpour, Peter Golub, Ian Krouse, David Lefkowitz, and Kay Rhie.

I started taking piano lessons at the ripe age of eight, and joined band in the sixth grade on the behest of my mother, who had played percussion all through middle and high school. I was assigned to the oboe by lottery and immediately took to the instrument, which has since opened so many doors into all things musical, from chamber music to orchestral performance, and even to composition! What got me started (and keeps me going) is all of the connections I’ve been able to make with both musicians and audience members alike.

Born and raised in California, Zoe began studying piano at age five and violin at seven. In December 2023 she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in music and psychology from Andrews University, where she studied violin under the tutelage of Carla Trynchuk. Currently, Zoe is pursuing a Master of Music degree in violin performance at California State University Long Beach, studying with Moni Simeonov.

As an orchestral musician, Zoe has served as Concertmaster for the Andrews University Symphony Orchestra and Miami Music Festival Orchestra; as well as Principal II for the Bob Cole Conservatory Symphony. She currently holds a fellowship with the California Young Artists Symphony in the greater Los Angeles region and a student position with the North State Symphony based in Chico, California. A chamber music enthusiast, Zoe was a member of the Bob Cole Conservatory University String Quartet from 2024-2025 and has performed internationally in trios, quartets, and quintets. Outside music, Zoe enjoys traveling, puzzles, vegan baking, and origami.

Inspired by my mother, whose favorite instrument was the violin, I began violin lessons at the age of 7. Those formative years shaped a desire for music to become lifelong endeavor. The process of collaborating with others, creating something bigger than myself, and working steadily toward a common goal invigorates me as I deepen this journey. In performing I find a joy in empowering others — both musicians and audience alike — and this sparks the energy with which I approach every note.

A Los Angeles native, Brian Slack earned his Bachelor’s degree in string performance from California State University, Long Beach, and studied with Douglas Basye, associate principal bass of Pacific Symphony. Brian is currently pursuing his Master of Music degree at the University of California, Los Angeles, studying with the L.A. Philharmonic’s principal double bassist, Christopher Hanulik.

As an educator, Brian finds joy in discovering new ways to introduce and foster a love for the double bass throughout several public schools in Orange County and Los Angeles County. Brian works closely with band and orchestra directors across Southern California to help develop a better, more inclusive curriculum for music students of all ages. This includes teaching private double bass lessons for underprivileged students, group sectionals for students with learning disabilities, and music theory lessons for students of all ages and backgrounds.

He also performs regularly with theater companies, recording artists, and symphony orchestras across California. Some orchestras he performs with include the Pacific Symphony, the San Luis Obispo Symphony, and the Modesto Symphony. Brian has also performed internationally at Dvorak Hall in Prague.

Through his work, Brian hopes to bridge cultural and generational gaps with the intention of bringing people closer together.

I began playing the double bass in middle school orchestra at the age of twelve. In high school, I attended many L.A. Philharmonic concerts at the Hollywood Bowl. Watching the bass section play inspired me to pursue a career as an orchestral musician. 

Preston Spisak’s deep love for the percussion art form and classical music tradition inspires him to devote his life towards the mastery of his craft. He is a timpanist and percussionist based at the Thornton School of Music, University of Southern California where he studies with members of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Joseph Pereira and Jim Babor. There, he performs with the Thornton orchestra, opera, and other ensembles under artistic director, Carl St. Clair.

While in Los Angeles, Spisak has held positions with the American Youth Symphony as Principal Timpani, as well as California Young Artists Symphony as Associate Principal Percussion, and he is also an avid freelancer. During his time in L.A., Spisak has had the privilege to perform under notable conductors such as Carl St. Clair, Anthony Parnther, Hans Graf, and Jason K. Fettig at numerous Los Angeles concert venues, including Walt Disney Concert Hall.

 In the summers of 2022-2024 Spisak has taken part in the National Youth Orchestra and Round Top Orchestra festivals. With NYO he went on tour for performances at Carnegie Hall and then prominent venues across Europe including the Royal Concertgebouw, Berlin Konzerthaus, and Lucerne Festival Hall under the baton of Daniel Harding. After many years of summer music programs Spisak has had the opportunity to learn from esteemed timpanists and percussionists from top orchestras such as the San Francisco Symphony, The Cleveland Orchestra, and Houston Symphony Orchestra.

 Originally from Greenville, South Carolina, Spisak received the majority of his pre-college training from Wesley Strasser at the Fine Arts Center of Greenville.

Alaina is a graduate from UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music with a degree in Music Performance: Harp. In 2021, Alaina embarked on her harp performance studies at UCLA under the tutelage of Lou Anne Neill, a former principal harpist with the Los Angeles Philharmonic for 37 years.

At UCLA, Alaina has showcased her talents as she performed with various ensembles, including the UCLA Philharmonia, Wind Ensemble, Symphony, Contemporary Jazz Ensemble, Commercial Music Ensemble, and a Charles Mingus workshop performing group. Her deep affinity for contemporary music drove her to actively seek out chamber works to perform with the UCLA Flux ensembles and to collaborate on new compositions by student composers at UCLA. You can find her now performing at various locations in Los Angeles.

I began my studies of harp at the age of two, taking lessons alongside my mother. After that point, my harp and I were inseparable! I feel that the greatest inspiration for me to continue this path is not entirely the music making, but the fantastic and creative people that I am surrounded by. 

Originally from Chicago, Illinois, Chris is a trombonist based in Los Angeles, California. Alongside his fellowship with CYAS, he performs as the Bass Trombonist of the Civic Orchestra of Los Angeles, as a member of Wrightwood Brass, and as an active freelance musician in the Los Angeles area.

A proud graduate of the University of Michigan (‘24), Chris is currently studying at the University of California, Los Angeles, where he studies with James Miller, Associate Principal Trombone of the Los Angeles Philharmonic.

Outside of his classical music interests, he enjoys listening to funk, rock, soul, salsa, and jazz. In his free time, he’s often found playing bass guitar, rock climbing, hiking, or cooking.

My journey in music definitely started with my family. My parents would constantly have the radio on in the kitchen, so from a very early age music was always a part of my life. Once I started playing the trombone, I loved how it constantly challenged me and allowed me to connect with others during performance. Besides music, there’s not much else that I’d consider making a career out of!

Mana Tatsuki is a junior at the University of California Los Angeles pursuing a Bachelor of Music in Violin Performance under the tutelage of Movses Pogossian and Varty Manouelian. Former music mentors include Jin-Shan Dai, Peter Marsh, Hana Kim, Martin Chalifour, Moni Simeonov, Dr. Mathew Ward, and Dr. Sakura Tsai.

As an experienced advocate for stage productions, Ms. Tatsuki was a member of the L.A. Opera’s featured production of “On Gold Mountain”, and recently won a seat with the California Young Artists Symphony. Her dedication and responsibilities as Assistant to the Music Director for gala, musical, ballet, and opera productions have informed her appreciation for all performing arts. As a graduate of the California School of the Arts – San Gabriel Valley, Mana was a lauded leader in the Strings and Orchestra Program and Instrumental Music Conservatory where she acted as concertmaster of the CSArts-SGV orchestras and performed in the flagship chamber ensemble during her tenure.

Mana has previously attended numerous summer programs including Interlochen Arts Camp and Boston University Tanglewood Institute’s Violin Workshop—Young Artists Orchestra program where she served as assistant principal second violin.

With her colleagues, Mana also co-founded the non-profit organization group ARCK Chamber, which performs in hospitals and retirement centers and provides immersive musical experiences to those who have limited access to live classical performances. Outside of music, Mana enjoys spending her time reading, drawing, and collecting decorative pins.

I started playing the violin looking after my mother. I would try to touch my mother’s instruments so often that she got me my own. I decided to pursue music because it’s one of the things in my life that I love most, and I get to connect with so many people because of it. Even if the time I spend with someone is short, I’m able to learn a lot and create meaningful memories with them, making me enjoy music even more.

Eva Tseitlin is a cellist residing in Thousand Oaks, California. She began her musical studies at age 4 with her father and mother, Alexander and Rebecca Tseitlin. Her studies have been greatly influenced by her private studies with Kirill Rodin (Moscow Conservatory), Ben Hong (LA Phil), Ronald Leonard (LA Phil), Ruslan Biryukov, and her grandfather Michael Tseitlin.

Eva gave her first full public recital at age 11 with a performance of the Haydn C-Major Cello Concerto, Brahms e-minor Cello Sonata, and Bach’s d-minor cello suite, performing all 3 works in their entirety. She has since performed as a recitalist and chamber musician throughout the US and Germany, alongside prominent musicians such as Alexander Tseitlin (CYAS), and James Lent (UCLA).

At age 13 she was a finalist and winner of the Thousand Oaks Philharmonic Opus Series, performing the first movement of the Schumann cello concerto, as well as a finalist and winner of the Channel Islands Chamber Orchestra Artist Series, performing Popper’s Hungarian Rhapsody.

At age 9, she won the Associate Principal Cello position of the LOYO Symphony Orchestra, and won a seat at LOYO’s Virtuosi Ensemble. At age 13, she won a fellowship with the prestigious California Young Artist Symphony. She has played under the baton of David Chan (New York Met), Radu Paponiu (Naples Philharmonic), Alexander Tseitlin (CYAS, CVYO), Larry Livingston (USC), and Neil Stulberg (UCLA).

Sofia Tseitlin began studying piano and violin with her father and mother, Alexander and Rebecca Tseitlin, at age 4. Her studies have been greatly influenced by her grandfather father Michael Tseitlin (California Institute of Music), and David Chan (New York Met Opera). She has participated in festival and faculty performances throughout California with prominent artists such as Ornela Erwin.

Sofia has held the concertmaster position at LOYO’s Symphony Orchestra as well as the principal second violin in LOYO’s Virtuosi Ensemble. She also holds an apprentice fellowship with the California Young Artist Symphony.

A developing pianist, violist, cellist, and conductor, Sofia conducts the Camerata Orchestra at Beacon Hill’s Classical Young Artists Program, and maintains a small studio at Eleos Music.

I grew up in a musical household and because of that I started music at an early age. Even though my musical journey started as a requirement, I’m beginning to understand the power that music can have and am starting to see violin as a beautiful craft. CYAS has taken me to a new level and I look forward to the coming seasons.

Erin Tsui, from California, is pursuing a Bachelor of Music in Violin Performance under the tutelage of Movses Pogossian and Ji Young An, and a Bachelor of Science in Cognitive Science at UCLA. She has won numerous awards in competitions such as the US Open Music Competition, Korean American Music Supporters Association Music Competition, and Junior Bach Festival.

Having previously played in the California Youth Symphony, Korean American Music Supporters Association Orchestra, California All-State Symphony Orchestra, East Bay Chamber Music Festival, and attended the National Symphony Orchestra Summer Institute at the Kennedy Center, she desires to pursue a career in orchestral music and explore new colors and mediums in which an ensemble can create sound. Outside of the practice room, Erin enjoys understanding how others express themselves creatively through reading and discovering new films to watch.

At the age of 5, my mother who never received the opportunity to study music enrolled me in group violin lessons. From there, I joined my first youth orchestra in 4th grade, which is largely the reason why I continued playing the violin. I continued to cultivate my love for collaborative music throughout high school and my time at my first orchestral summer festival in Washington D.C. impelled me to pursue music as a profession. My experiences have culminated in a realization that the energy in a performance is truly captivating, addicting, and something that I cannot find anywhere else.

Luke Carmichael Valmadrid is a third-year medical student, PRIME-HEq scholar, and violist studying at the University of California San Diego School of Medicine. At UW-Madison, he was the violist of the Perlman Ensemble for four years and a First Wave Hip-Hop Scholar of the 8th cohort, studying violin with Soh-Hyun Park Altino, viola with Sally Chisholm, and chamber music with Parry Karp of the Pro Arte Quartet. He has performed as a Mimir Chamber Music Festival Emerging Artist alongside the Solaria Quartet and as a North Carolina Student Fellow with the Chamber Orchestra of the Triangle. While in medical school, he won awards at the first two iterations of the LJSC Emerging Artists Competition, studied at the Stanford Chamber Music Seminar, and this Fall, began lessons with Chi-Yuan Chen of the San Diego Symphony.

I began enjoying music and ensemble work with the Suzuki Strings of Madison and their Sonora Strings program, then developed a sincere love for chamber music in high school and university. While double majoring in violin-performance and biochemistry, I was often told that I would have to give up music the deeper I went into medicine and research; and in medical school, I almost did. Last fall, while struggling to adjust to hospital rotations, I began attending meetings of Room 264, a sightreading club at UCSD, and subsequently honored five rotations, all while practicing, competing, and performing. I will give it everything I have to become a physician who maximally protects patients and a violist continually capable of greater musical heights.

Isaac Visoutsy is a violinist and teacher based in the greater Los Angeles area, having received his bachelor’s from CSU Fullerton and master’s degree from UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music. Since graduating from UCLA, Isaac has spent his time trying to find balance between performing and teaching. Aside from playing with CYAS, Isaac is contracted with the Stockton Symphony for their 25-26 season. Previous orchestral engagements include, National Repertory Orchestra, Dream Orchestra, American Youth Symphony, Mozart Classical Orchestra, Whittier Regional Symphony, and more.

He is currently a Teaching Artist with Harmony Project- EXPO and an instructional assistant for Manhattan Beach Unified School District elementary string programs. On top of teaching in LA and MBUSD, Isaac runs a private violin studio based in Orange County. He is looking forward to upcoming engagements with his string quartet. In his free time, Isaac loves playing chess and cooking for his loved ones.

My musical journey began when I was ten years old and chose to play violin in middle school orchestra. After middle school I attended Las Vegas Academy of the Arts, and was truly inspired by my classmates and teachers. Although I was not able to take private lessons until seventeen years old, I knew I wanted nothing more than to pursue violin so I jumped into college auditions. Through a wild combination of luck and preparation I was able to work my way to where I am now and I am forever grateful for music.

Raphael Angelo Yap is a freelance tenor trombonist who was originally born in the Philippines and is currently based in Los Angeles, California. He is a recent graduate of California State University Long Beach where he studied with Steve Trapani and Michael Hoffman, and is currently pursuing his Master’s in Trombone Performance with James Miller, Associate Principal Trombone of the Los Angeles Philharmonic. 

Alongside his fellowship with the California Young Artists Symphony, he has played with various symphonies in town such as the American Youth Symphony (AYS), and is currently part of the Civic Orchestra of Los Angeles (COLA) and San Gabriel Valley Symphony (SGVS). Throughout his career, he has gotten to perform in venues such as Royce Hall, Walt Disney Hall, and the Kennedy Center in Washington DC. 

Believing that community is a very important aspect to music, Raphael is also an educator teaching students from middle to high school throughout Southern California and is involved in organizations such as the Student Academy of Musical Leaders in order to inspire younger students to enjoy and pursue the art of music. 

My journey in music began when I was 10 years old in fifth grade, and I picked up the trombone in eighth grade. Even at a young age, I realized that the art of music is something I found myself looking forward to each day, as the experience was unique and like none other than what I was doing at the time. Something that really made me want to pursue music was being able to share this art with other people, making music with others around me or even performing for the audience. As my musical journey continues, the more people I meet and perform music with, motivates me more to work towards the profession I wake up every day looking forward to enjoy.

Aaron Zamarron is a freelancing cellist based in West Covina, CA, whose love for music started in childhood with electric and acoustic guitar. He began his orchestral journey in middle school, playing violin and double bass. At 13, he discovered the cello and fell in love with it. Cello playing came naturally to Aaron as if he had played it in a different lifetime. He was self taught throughout middle school and high school. Aaron draws inspiration from renowned musicians such as Sujari Britt, Jacqueline du Pré, Alisa Weilerstein, and Mstislav Rostropovich.

As a high school student, Aaron made his professional orchestral debut with the SCSBOA All-Southern Honor Orchestra and served as principal cellist for the Baldwin Park High School Orchestra for all four years. During his rise in the L.A. music scene, he has performed in venues such as the First Congregational Church of L.A., Fred Kavli Theater, The BroadStage, Ambassador Auditorium and Walt Disney Concert Hall. 

Aaron has been playing the cello for 7 years, and is currently an active member of the California Young Artists Symphony (CYAS) and the San Gabriel Valley Symphony (SGVS). He has generally collaborated with renowned musicians such as violinist Suli Xue from the LA Phil, conductor Anthony Parnther from the Civic Orchestra of LA, and concertmaster David Chan from the Metropolitan Opera. Aaron is currently a student at Azusa Pacific University studying cello with Dr. Marek Szpakiewicz in the Artist Certificate Program.

My passion for music began when I started playing electric guitar as a child. When I got in to middle school, I joined the string orchestra and started my first year playing violin. At 13 years old, I was inspired to start playing cello after discovering a YouTube video of Jacqueline Du Pre performing Elgar’s Cello Concerto. After switching to cello, I then realized I made a great decision. The idea of being a performer for my family and my community, is what inspired me to pursue a long-term career in music