Biography
Kody is a passionate and innovative artist based in the SF Bay Area. He has collaborated with esteemed artists including Alexi Kenney, Nobuko Imai, Kristen Lee, Ayane Kozasa, and the Kronos Quartet, and has performed in halls ranging from Cincinnati’s Memorial Hall to Orange County’s Segerstrom Center for the Performing Arts. He participated in masterclasses for Milena Pajaro-van de Stadt, Kirsten Docter, and Pierree-Henri Xuereb, as well as in chamber masterclasses with the St. Lawrence, Aizuri, and Kronos Quartets.
As an educator, he brings this wealth of musical knowledge into his teaching, inspiring students with stories, examples, and practical strategies drawn from real-world experience. Kody has had the privilege of guiding students through all stages of development, from beginners picking up a 1/16th size violin, to doctoral violin candidates. As the graduate assistant to Professor Ayane Kozasa at the Cincinnati College–Conservatory of Music, Kody gave regular lessons to undergraduate and graduate students.
He has also maintained a private studio for young beginners, advancing students, and adults. He encourages all of his students to set personal goals, develop strong technical foundations, explore personal artistry, and discover the role of music in their lives. Beyond lessons, he often shares music in the community, organizing benefit concerts, performing in retirement homes and presenting interactive programs for preschoolers.
Kody earned his Master’s in Viola Performance from the Cincinnati College–Conservatory of Music and his Bachelor’s from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. He previously studied at the University of California, Irvine. His principal teachers include Ayane Kozasa, Dimitri Murrath, and Jerzy Kosmala. Originally from Honolulu, Hawai‘i, he often returns home to spend time with family, enjoy the outdoors, and eat poke.