Xavier Semien is a first-year undergraduate student at the University of Rochester and Eastman School of Music pursuing a dual degree in Mechanical Engineering and Viola Performance. 

Xavier began playing the violin in 2020, and later switched to viola in 2025. He currently studies with Phillip Ying, and his previous teachers include Jamie Wu and Susanne Rothaar. Through both instruments, he has received accolades in competitions including the AZ Musicfest Young Musician Competition, Chandler Symphony Orchestra Youth Competition, OPUS State Strings Competition, US New Star Music Competition, and PYSO’s Young Musicians Competition. He has also had the honor of attending the Sphinx Performance Academy in both 2025 and 2026, working with esteemed musicians such as Rainel Joubert, Andrea Segar, Jason Amos, Khari Joyner, and Paul Laraia. Beyond solo performance, Xavier is passionate about orchestra music, having been a member of the West Valley Symphony, Scottsdale Symphonic Orchestra, Phoenix Youth Symphony, and AMEA All-State Orchestra. 

In addition to performing music, he is committed to giving back to his community. In 25-26, he served as a student intern with SOUNDS Academy, managing its social media and working to foster more outreach for the organization. In addition to this, he has fostered his own program, Music Inspires. This program has served over 150 people and has made music more accessible for young kids across Phoenix. Going forward, he looks forward to continuing spreading music in the communities he is a part of.