Artist Spotlight: KhaiAn Ho
KhaiAn Ho
Piano
Age: 15
School: Black Hills High School
Teacher: Jennifer Bowman
Biography
I started playing on the keyboard at age 10, then began piano studies at age 12 with Jennifer Bowman. Since then, I have participated in a variety of piano competitions, adjudications, and recitals at both local and state levels. At Black Hills High School, I play piano in the jazz band, and I also play the violin in orchestra. Outside of music, I enjoy playing tennis and track & field for my high school. I also love swimming and compete as a member of the YMCA Olympia Youth Swim Team.
KhaiAn is the winner of the Olympia Music Teachers Association (OMTA) 2025 Concert Competition Advanced A Division.
He will be featured as a soloist at our February Concert Revolution, on February 22, 2026, where he will be performing Beethoven’s Concerto No. 1 in C Major, Op. 15: III. Rondo.
More About KhaiAn
What piece are you performing with the orchestra, and what do you hope the audience feels when they hear it?
I am honored to be performing Beethoven’s Concerto No. 1 in C Major, Op. 15: III. Rondo. with the Olympia Chamber Orchestra. This piece evokes sensations of fun and excitement, and I hope I can deliver the joy I feel to my audience.
What inspired you and why did you choose to continue?
Ever since I was a kid, my mother, who despite having limited musical knowledge, created her own lullabies for me on a digital keyboard. She inspired me to pursue piano, and ever since I have become passionate in learning music so I can perform my favorite songs for my family.
Are there any pianists or composers who inspire you?
I am very grateful to my piano teacher, Jennifer Bowman, for teaching me everything I know about music theory and technique. She inspires me to continue my music journey. Also, out of all the classical composers, my favorite is Joseph Haydn because of his fun and upbeat style that evokes musical laughter in me whenever I play his pieces.
What role does music play in your life outside of performances?
Through music, I can express my emotions, giving joy and happiness to others, or when I feel down, create an outlet through which I can release my frustration. Music also breaks barriers and brings people together. Often before our school orchestra performance, I would play some fun tunes on the piano and my orchestra classmates would gather around and sing or rock along to destress.
Outside of music, what do you enjoy doing?
Outside of music, I enjoy playing tennis and track & field for my high school. I also love swimming and compete as a member of the YMCA Olympia Youth Swim Team.
