Nathan Chan’s multifaceted career exemplifies his dedication to exploring the diverse aspects of the cello, sharing his musical vision across solo, chamber music, and orchestral settings. His unwavering belief in music’s power to bridge gaps and create connections drives him to engage audiences and foster a sense of community through his artistry. Embracing technology and social media, Nathan has invited others into the world of classical music, encouraging camaraderie among musicians and patrons alike. 

Named a local Forbes 30 Under 30 for Seattle, Nathan has harnessed the power of technology and social media to draw new audiences to classical music. With over 35 million views across YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok, he has made a significant impact on the online classical community. His efforts, such as the „Nathan Chan Chats for Change“ campaign during the COVID pandemic, demonstrate his commitment to using music as an instrument for positive change. Additionally, Nathan released his first NFT, collaborating with AI Artist Lia Coleman, combining classical music with machine learning art. 

Throughout his career, Nathan has collaborated with esteemed musicians and institutions, constantly pushing the boundaries of cello repertoire and performance. He has performed as a soloist with the San Francisco Symphony, Royal Philharmonic, Albany Symphony, Reno Philharmonic, and Hong Kong Chamber Orchestra, working with distinguished conductors like Leonard Slatkin, James Gaffigan, Donato Cabrera, Alexander Prior, Alasdair Neale, and Laura Jackson, among others. Chan was a chosen artist for Fondation Louis Vuitton’s Classe d’Excellence du Violoncelle with renowned cellist Gautier Capuçon.

In addition to his work as a performing artist, Nathan has partnered with communities and organizations worldwide to develop programs that foster a future guided by empathy, trust, and understanding. His numerous accolades and awards, including a $25,000 scholarship as a 2012 Davidson Fellow for his project „The Importance of Passion,“ reflect his dedication to music and its role in society. He has performed benefit concerts for the American Alzheimer’s Association, the Friends of Children with Special Needs, and other organizations, earning the Peninsula Arts Council’s Ray Lorenzato Diamond Arts Award in 2007. 

Nathan’s musical journey began at a tender age with conducting imitations using a chopstick as a baton, emulating the styles of legendary conductors like Seiji Ozawa, Herbert von Karajan, and Leonard Bernstein. He caught the attention of San Francisco Opera Assistant Conductor Sara Jobin and made his debut as a conductor at age three. Under the guidance of renowned cellists Irene Sharp, Sieun Lin, and Richard Aaron at The Juilliard School, Nathan refined his craft, leading him to perform on prestigious stages around the world. 

Born into a family with a deep appreciation for music, Nathan received his Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Columbia University before pursuing his Master of Music at The Juilliard School, where he studied with esteemed cellist Richard Aaron. He has participated in several renowned music festivals, such as Marlboro Music Festival, Taos Music Festival, and Caramoor’s Evnin Rising Stars, performing with musicians Mitsuko Uchida, Anthony McGill, Joseph Lin, and Nobuko Imai, among others. He currently serves as the Assistant Principal Cello of the Seattle Symphony, captivating audiences with his artistry.