Composer Talk: Kevin Charoensri, Nathan Dumrongthai

Kevin Charoensri is a Thai-American composer, pianist, conductor, and arts advocate based in San Diego, CA. His work centers historically marginalized voices—particularly AAPI communities—and has been recognized by national platforms including The Washington Post, CNN, and the Smithsonian Institution. At 15, he made his international composition and conducting debut at the Sydney Opera House conducting his original work “Return,” earning praise from the San Diego Union-Tribune. His music has since been performed at Carnegie Hall, Cornell’s Bailey Hall, Purdue University, and in residencies at UCLA, Texas Tech, Cal State Fullerton, and others.

His acclaimed piece Rising Light, a response to post-COVID Asian hate, was programmed by “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band and drew national attention when its performance was cancelled by executive order. As a conductor and educator, Kevin has led masterclasses, guest conducted across the country, and mentored young artists from underrepresented communities.

Kevin holds a BM in Music Composition from The University of Texas at Austin, where his works were premiered by university ensembles and he performed with the UT Jazz Bands. Now pursuing graduate studies at Michigan State University, he continues to bridge cultures and genres, using music as a platform for advocacy, storytelling, and social impact.