Jaquain Sloan

Jaquain Sloan serves as Acting Utility Bassoon/Contrabassoon with the Utah Symphony. He previously served the same position with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. In addition to these orchestras, he has also performed with the Philadelphia Orchestra, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra, and the Kennedy Center Honors Orchestra.

Jaquain began his musical journey at age 12 as a percussionist before discovering the bassoon at 15. He was self taught until transferring to the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, where he received mentorship from Saxton Rose during his senior year. His newfound love for the bassoon allowed him to spend summers at the Aspen Music Festival, and Brevard Music Festival.

Originally from North Carolina, Jaquain holds a Bachelor of Music in Bassoon Performance from the Peabody Conservatory of Johns Hopkins University, where he studied with Phillip Kolker, and a Master of Music and Performer’s Certificate from the University of Southern California, under the guidance of Shawn Mouser.

Beyond his work with the bassoon, Jaquain is also a passionate advocate for social justice and an active participant in choral music. He has lent his voice to the Grammy-nominated ensemble Tonality and The L.A. Choral Lab, both based in Los Angeles. In addition to his choral endeavors, Jaquain has provided background vocals for notable artists such as Björk, Phil Collins, Sigur Rós, and Kronos Quartet.