Biography

Kelvin Guillen is a first-generation Salvadoran-American musician and educator raised in Elizabeth, New Jersey. He is currently completing his Bachelor of Arts in Music Education at Montclair State University, where he studies violoncello under the mentorship of Tomoko Fujita. He is expected to graduate in 2027.

Kelvin is passionate about community-based music programs and expanding access to the arts. Since 2022, he has served as an Education & Community Engagement Intern with the New Jersey Symphony Youth Orchestra, supporting over 250 students through rehearsal coordination, student and parent communication, and community outreach events such as Porch Fest and Halsey Fest. He also works as a Production Assistant for the Cali Pathways Project, helping manage the technical side of large-scale events—including lighting, camera work, live-stream operations, and stage transitions. In addition, he assists in student orientations, helping guide young musicians through the often-challenging transition from high school to university life. Kelvin is proud to be an alumnus of the Pathways, a program dedicated to supporting underrepresented young musicians.

During the summer, Kelvin brings his energy and mentorship to programs like Apple Hill Center for Chamber Music and Stokes Forest Music Camp, serving as a camp counselor and music coach. In 2025, he will also serve as a counselor at the Senior Session of Kinhaven Music School. Through individualized instruction, collaborative rehearsals, and community-building activities, he helps young musicians grow in both confidence and musicality within inclusive, supportive spaces.

In addition to his musical pursuits, Kelvin is a dedicated martial artist and holds a first-degree black belt in Aikido. His training in Aikido informs his approach to teaching and leadership, emphasizing balance, mindfulness, and mutual respect.

Kelvin is a Presser Scholar and the recipient of several awards, including the Edwin M. Barton Scholarship, Cali Pathways Project Scholarship, and Teachers Club of Montclair Scholarship. Certified in Youth and Adult Mental Health First Aid and fluent in Spanish, he is committed to fostering inclusive, culturally responsive music education.

Picture provided by Alexa Tabbacchino