Rizwan

violist

Background & Training

Dr. Rizwan Jagani is a Maryland-based violist of Indian and Pakistani heritage, classically trained in Western performance with a focus on versatility across genres.

Musical Identity

He reimagines the role of the viola by blending classical foundations with Bollywood, musical theatre, pop, and rock, bringing a refined yet modern sound to every performance.

Performance Highlights

Rizwan has performed with Burna Boy during the 2024 “I Told Them” tour in Washington, DC, collaborated with Ari Afsar at the Indian American Impact Gala, opened for Zarna Garg, and performed with Dwight Yoakam during his Las Vegas residency at Wynn Casino.

Recent Work

His recent appearances include the 2025 World Culture Festival hosted by the Arts Council of Pakistan, performing with Yo-Yo Ma as part of the Fairfax Symphony Orchestra, and a performance at the Kennedy Center with musicians of the Kuwait National Orchestra.

An amazing performer!! Booking Rizwan for my bridal entrance for my wedding was the best decision ever! I’ve heard of Rizwan many years ago and told myself whenever I would get married I would definitely want him for my wedding. It was super easy talking to him as he was very prompt in responding and overall very professional! We discussed what song I wanted and he learned it so quickly and performed beautifully! It definitely added a very unique touch to my wedding and it’s definitely something I’ll forever remember. Thank you so much Rizwan!!

RIZWAN IN ACTION!

How old were you when you started playing the violin? Why did you begin?

I started playing the viola at age 10 in middle school. I have a friend who used to play and he was like the cool kid. So if he thought playing the viola was cool, then I also had to play it. I recently got to perform at his wedding and it was a truly special moment.

What has been your favorite performing experience so far?

This list would go on forever so I will list my top 3! Performing at Burna Boy's DC concert March 2024 with Celeste and Nusheen, performing at the Arts Council of Pakistan's World Culture Festival in November 2025, and performing with Yo-Yo Ma with the Fairfax Symphony!!

Who are your biggest musical influences?

Abi Sampa and Rushil Ranjan of the Orchestral Qawwali Project, Sara Bareilles, and Sarah Chang.

Do you sing or play any other instruments?

I love karaoke even though my friends don't seem to. I play a little bit of violin, but I am definitely more at home with the viola.

What activity makes you lose track of time?

Working out. I love fitness and wellness.

Do you teach violin or any other instruments? Private lessons or some other context?

I teach viola and violin privately. I also do masterclasses and coachings!

What music did you grow up listening to?

I grew up listening to a lot of different things. Classical music, Indian and Pakistani styles, as well as pop. My mom loves the Backstreet Boys and ABBA so I knew a lot of their songs growing up.

What is something you’re not so good at but wish you could do well?

Ooooh this is a funny one. I wish I was better at math. I have a threshold and that prevented me from pursuing a career in engineering. But I guess it all worked out.

Do you speak any other languages besides English? Which one(s) and how well?

I am a fluent Spanish speaker as I studied the language for 7 years. I also speak Urdu fluently.

What is your educational background and what degree(s) do you have?

I started on the pre-med track and later switched to engineering. Eventually, I switched to music and never looked back. I since have gotten a Masters degree, Artist Diploma, and in May 2025 I completed my Doctor of Musical Arts degree.