Degrees:

• M.M., University of North Texas (Jazz Composition)
• B.A., University of North Texas (Jazz Performance, guitar)

Biography

Nathan S. Choi is a multi-talented musician/educator. His ability is not limited to playing his primary instrument: guitar (jazz, rock, and classical). He is also skilled in playing electric bass, music education, composing/arranging various styles of music, and singing – each reflecting his broad passion for music. After successfully earning bachelor’s degree in Jazz Studies (concentrated in jazz guitar performance) from the University of North Texas, Nathan completed his master’s degree in jazz arranging/composition at the same institution, where he studied with renowned masters of the area like Richard DeRosa.

Nathan was born in Seoul, South Korea. As a child, he demonstrated strong musical talent, particularly through singing in churches and schools. He achieved successes in several singing competitions, including the 1996 Vineyard National Singing Competition in Seoul. At the age of fourteen, he first picked up an acoustic guitar at church and began developing a special relationship with the instrument.

After graduating from high school, Nathan performed as an independent guitarist at churches and festivals throughout Seoul. In 2000, he moved to the U.S. and settled in Philadelphia with his family. After helping his family adjust to their new life for few years, he relocated to Dallas to pursue his musical career more seriously. There, he studied jazz with esteemed educators such as Fred Hamilton and Noel Johnston at the UNT.

Since graduating, Nathan has been active in various local music scenes, performing on guitar and bass for musical theater productions, jazz combos and big bands, and churches like Gateway, as well as in concerts of South Korean artists such as Duk-kyu Ha and Brian Kim. In addition to performing guitars, he has been involved in directing and conducting orchestras for Nelson Theater Department, while also writing and arranging music for high school and college-level jazz ensembles and various church events.

Education has been another central aspect of Nathan’s life. Several of his formal students have gone on to become professional musicians. He strongly believes in power of music to positively impact people’s lives and recognizes the importance of educating students at all levels, not just the music majors. His work experience at organizations such as Nelson University (formerly SAGU) and Dallas College, in addition to private teaching, has further enriched his teaching style and pedagogical approach.