Music Department Accordantly Introduces Four Remarkable Studio Professors
In a recent development, the UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music has welcomed a new faculty member, Che-Yen Chen, as professor of viola. Chen, who is also a highly sought-after soloist, educator, chamber, and orchestral musician, brings a wealth of experience to the prestigious institution.
Chen has previously served as guest principal with esteemed orchestras such as the Los Angeles Philharmonic, San Francisco Symphony, Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, National Arts Centre Orchestra, and Toronto Symphony Orchestra. He has also held the position of principal violist with the San Diego Symphony and Mainly Mozart Festival Orchestra.
One of Chen's most notable achievements is his role as a founding member of the critically acclaimed Formosa Quartet. The quartet's recordings can be found on EMI, Delos, and New World Records. Their current project, From Hungary to Taiwan, is set to be released with Bridge Records in the 2018-19 season.
Chen's contributions to contemporary music are significant. He gave the world premiere of the "Fantasie on viola" with pianist Steven Van Hauwaert on November 15, 2024, suggesting his active involvement in the performance and premiere of contemporary works for viola.
Joining Chen at UCLA is another distinguished musician, Boris Allakhverdyan. Allakhverdyan, who is the principal clarinet of the Los Angeles Philharmonic since 2016, has also been appointed as a lecturer at the school. Before joining the LA Phil, Allakhverdyan served as principal clarinet of the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra and the associate principal clarinet of the Kansas City Symphony.
Allakhverdyan's performances have been lauded by critics. The New York Times has described them as "superlative" and "inspired". He is also a founding member of the Prima Trio, which won the Grand Prize and Gold Medal at the 2007 Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition.
Rounding out the new faculty is Gregory Goodall, who has been appointed as a lecturer in percussion. Goodall, who is the principal timpanist of the Los Angeles Opera Orchestra, is also a founding member of the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra. His extensive studio work includes over 800 film scores, including Star Wars: The Last Jedi, La La Land, and Frozen.
Goodall's teaching experience includes serving on the faculties of California State University Long Beach and the University of California, Santa Barbara. His most recent teaching position was at Biola Conservatory of Music.
Joshua Ranz, lecturer in clarinet, is another notable addition to the faculty. Ranz, who is principal clarinet of the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra and New West Symphony, has been praised for his performances. His "stunning rendition" of the Mozart Clarinet Concerto and his performance of the Copland Clarinet Concerto were called "exciting".
Before joining UCLA, Chen served on the faculty of USC Thornton School of Music, Indiana University South Bend, University of California, San Diego; San Diego State University, California State University Fullerton, and McGill University.
For those seeking more detailed biographical information about Che-Yen Chen, such as background, education, or a comprehensive list of performances and publications, it is recommended to check UCLA's official faculty directory or reach out to the university directly for more detailed information.
These new appointments are a testament to UCLA's commitment to attracting and nurturing top talent in the music industry. The addition of these esteemed musicians to the faculty is sure to enrich the educational experience for students and contribute to the school's reputation as a leading institution for music education.
Che-Yen Chen, in his new role as professor at UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music, not only brings his expertise as a musician but also his background in education, making him an asset for online education and learning opportunities in the department of education-and-self-development.
Boris Allakhverdyan, joining the faculty as a lecturer, not only brings his proficiency as a clarinetist but also his experience in online education, as he has previously held teaching positions and contributed to contemporary music, expanding the reach of online education in the institution.
