Daniel Chilton
Daniel Chilton, a native Texan, began his musical studies on piano at age six and soon after took up the cello at age nine. From an early age, he showed promise as a musician, leading him to participate in prestigious local competitions. Summers were dedicated to musical growth at renowned institutions like the Interlochen and Killington Music Festivals, immersing himself in intensive study and performing with distinguished musicians. These formative years laid a strong foundation for his professional studies at the University of North Texas, where he studied under the tutelage of Eugene Osadchy. Later, he pursued his Masters in Music with Christopher Adkins at Southern Methodist University, where he also served as a teaching assistant in the Chamber Music program, cultivating his skills as both a performer and educator.
Daniel has performed with a wide range of ensembles, including the Irving, San Angelo, and Fort Worth Symphonies. Since 2022, he has served as the personnel manager for the Dallas Chamber Symphony, where he is also integral to the coordination of the Dallas International Piano Competition and the Dallas International Violin Competition. His contributions to these competitions reflect a dedication to excellence and a passion for elevating the classical music landscape in Texas and beyond.
In addition to his performance career, Daniel is a sought-after cello instructor, managing the thriving private studio in Frisco, Forte Piano Strings, with his wife and family that attracts over 100 students annually, with a consistent attendance in his personal studio of more than 50 students at any given time. His students frequently excel, achieving top placements in All-Region and All-State auditions and securing competitive accolades that highlight the high standard of his teaching.
Beyond teaching, Daniel is an avid arranger and recording artist, bringing his creative vision to life through unique cello arrangements and performances. During his college years, he often collaborated with indie artists, lending his music to a variety of projects that brought him to performances at notable venues such as the House of Blues in Dallas.
An active member of the North Texas performance community, Daniel frequently collaborates with his wife, Dr. Kaye Yu-Ho Chang-Chilton, performing duos at high-profile events attended by dignitaries, including U.S. Senators and Ambassadors from Asia. Together, and with their family, they co-founded Mementos Music Group, a nonprofit dedicated to presenting chamber music in innovative ways to general audiences while providing young musicians with unique, career-enhancing performance opportunities.