Khải Niên Nguyễn

Clarinetist and educator

I’m a Vietnamese American clarinetist and educator exploring how sound holds memory, identity, and belonging. My work centers care, collaboration, and a deep reverence for storytelling through music.

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About

Khai Nien Nguyen is a clarinetist, educator, and scholar from Southern California, currently pursuing a Master of Music in Clarinet Performance at the University of California, Los Angeles, where he studies with Boris Allakhverdyan. He recently completed his Bachelor of Music in Clarinet Performance with a minor in Music Theory at Oberlin Conservatory under the mentorship of Richard Hawkins and Dr. Jan Miyake.Khai Nien serves as guest faculty at the Qingdao International Clarinet Seminar and Tianjin Orchestral Art Music Festival, sharing his passion for music education with young clarinetists abroad. At Oberlin Conservatory, he taught collegiate-level clarinetists as a Secondary Clarinet Instructor. He also worked as Assistant Conductor and Woodwind Coach for the Northern Ohio Youth Orchestra, where he leads rehearsals and coaches advanced high school musicians. In addition, he oversees a private teaching studio catering to students from diverse backgrounds and skill levels.As a performer, Khai Nien has played with ensembles such as the Oberlin Orchestra and Contemporary Music Ensemble, and previously subbed with the Akron Symphony. He is currently a member of the Taneycomo Festival Orchestra, where he performs orchestral and chamber works in unconventional venues as part of the organization’s mission to expand classical music access in underserved communities. He has premiered several new works and participated in master classes with artists such as Yehuda Gilad, Anthony McGill, and Burt Hara.Outside of the European art music tradition, Khai Nien stays connected to his Vietnamese roots through performing Vietnamese folk music with Emmanuel Choir and Our Lady of La Vang Catholic Church. His dedication to fostering cultural connections through music underscores his passion for inclusivity and diversity in the arts.Khai Nien’s research centers on applying music theory pedagogically to guide students in making more informed and expressive musical decisions. He explores how theoretical analysis can enhance interpretive depth and support creative choices in performance. Additionally, he has a strong interest in popular music, particularly the works of Sufjan Stevens, and enjoys studying how these concepts translate across genres.Khai Nien is committed to mentoring marginalized students and fostering inclusivity in music. Through performance, teaching, and research, he seeks to cultivate compassion and connection within his community.

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Services Offered

Clarinet Performance – Available for solo, chamber, and orchestral engagementsClarinet Lessons – Private instruction for all levels, with focus on sound, technique, expression, and confidence-buildingVietnamese Music Instruction – Lessons in traditional and folk repertoire, improvisation, and cultural contextBeginning Piano Lessons – Supportive foundational instruction for children and adultsWoodwind & Chamber Music Coaching – Coaching for youth ensembles, chamber groups, and school programsMusic Ministry – Fluent in both Vietnamese and American liturgical traditions; available for services, retreats, and special eventsMusic Theory Tutoring – Individual or group sessions with a focus on aural skills, analysis, and creative applicationI offer a free trial lesson so you can get a feel for my teaching and see if we’re a good match! Feel free to email me if you’re interested or have any questions.

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Sample Recordings

Check out some recordings that show different sides of my playing, from classical pieces to music that’s meaningful to me.

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