Kenton Willem (A.K.A. Kenni) is a multi-instrumentalist, composer, and arranger from Nanaimo, B.C., whose music is anchored in emotion and guided by intuition. Their love for music began at age ten, when they discovered Paul Desmond’s crisp, lyrical saxophone sound on their dad’s living-room stereo. Music has been a lifelong pursuit ever since, a constant exploration of its mechanics, creative possibilities, moments of flow, connection with listeners, and the deep relationships that emerge when musicians play together. Kenton’s compositions often weave lyrical melodies with rich harmonic textures, creating music that feels both intimate and expansive.

Along the way, Kenton has performed with countless ensembles, from one-on-one duos to roaring big bands, and has been recognized for both their playing and writing, including a Downbeat Student Music Award for original composition and a full-tuition Jimmy Lyons Scholarship to Berklee College of Music, where they completed a dual degree in performance and jazz composition, alongside a minor in contemporary and classical conducting. Yet beyond the accolades, it is the push, pull, and spark of shared creation that continues to inspire them.

Today, Kenton splits their time between teaching piano, saxophone, voice, and flute at Kenton’s Lesson Studio, and directing and leading the AVIVA Chorus on Saturday mornings. As a teacher, they focus on creating a welcoming space where students feel at ease, fully immersed in the music, and free to explore their own path. They guide students to slow down, reflect on where they are and where they want to be, and take small, deliberate steps toward larger musical goals. Kenton encourages curiosity, self-reflection, and confidence, helping students develop both skill and a deeper connection to the music they love.

Kenton is also deep in the process of crafting their debut album of all-original songs, exploring themes of resilience, self-discovery, and the search for freedom, while reflecting on the complexities of love and identity. Drawing from their experiences as a queer musician and activist, they hope the music resonates with listeners who have faced similar challenges, while also offering insight and compassion to those less familiar with these experiences—providing affirmation, understanding, and a reminder that no one is truly alone. In every role—teacher, conductor, performer, composer—they approach music as a living, evolving practice and an opportunity for personal and artistic growth.