A Bold Chamber Ensemble

Justine Hamlin is a San Diego-based concert clarinetist with degrees in Clarinet Performance from the University of Cincinnati CCM and the New England Conservatory, and a Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of St. Augustine. A passionate chamber and solo performer, she has appeared with ensembles including Windscape, Finest City Wind Orchestra, Fresno Philharmonic, Berkeley Symphony, and more. As an educator, she has taught at West Valley College and coached students who’ve gone on to perform with top youth orchestras. Justine integrates her physical therapy background into her clarinet teaching and performance, promoting ease, efficiency, and expressive artistry. She is available for freelance performances in San Diego County and is a member of AFM Local 325 and the Performing Arts Medicine Association.

Brandon is a San Diego-based multi-instrumentalist specializing in flutes, saxophones, clarinets, and ethnic and historical winds. He performs with a wide range of ensembles including Windscape, Finest City Wind Orchestra, and regional theater productions. Brandon has also appeared with the San Diego Saints Choir, Stellarum Chamber Choir, and previously co-founded the New England Film Orchestra. Trained in flute performance at the Cleveland Institute of Music, Brandon balances his musical life with a career as a Sr. Staff Scientist at Illumina, holding advanced degrees in polymer chemistry from Cornell University.

Jonathan Hayward earned a BM degree in bassoon performance from New England Conservatory, an AS in Electronic Engineering, a MA degree in Management, and a teaching credential. Jonathan was a founding member of the San Diego Chamber Orchestra and performed as a freelance musician in San Diego and Boston. Jonathan has had a career in education for over thirty years and is presently a tenured math teacher at Orange Glen High School in Escondido.

Lesi Mei is a multifaceted pianist whose journey spans bioengineering, kinesiology, and classical music, with the piano ultimately shaping her identity and artistry. Known for her dazzling virtuosity, expressive musicality, and intuitive collaborative skills, Lesi has performed across the U.S. and internationally, from Steinway Home Beijing and Birdland Jazz Club NYC to Montclair State University and the International Keyboard Institute and Festival. Her advanced studies include a Performance Diploma from the European Music Institute in Vienna under Professor Martin Hughes and a Master of Music in Piano Performance from San Diego State University. She also holds degrees in Exercise Physiology (MS, Florida State University) and Biological Engineering (BE, Beijing Institute of Technology). Based in San Diego, Lesi maintains a thriving teaching studio in Lemon Grove and Torrey Highlands, and served on the jury of the inaugural San Diego International Piano Competition for Outstanding Amateurs in 2016.