May 14, 2026

Meet this year’s student commencement speaker, Owne Xayboury (BM ’26), Classical Viola! We spoke with Owne about his time at MSM, his parting words for his class, and his most memorable MSM memory.

The student commencement speaker selection process includes open nominations by the graduating class, followed by a short interview of the potential candidates with MSM Dean of Students Monica Christensen and Director of Student Engagement Jesse Goldberg. The final decision is made by the executive board of the Student Government Association.

ABOUT OWNE

Owne Xayboury is a Hmong-American violist graduating with his Bachelor’s degree at Manhattan School of Music, where he studies with Cong Wu. He started playing viola in 2018, and since then he’s been grateful for a number of opportunities that have shaped his path. That includes winning the New York Young Virtuoso Music Competition, which led to a performance at Carnegie Hall, as well as first prize in the Walter A. and Dorothy J. Oestreich Concerto Competition. He’s also been supported by the Ruggeri Scholarship for Young Violists and received the Wilshire Quinn Musical Arts Scholarship. Along the way, he’s had the chance to be part of projects with NPR Music and Grammy Award-winning artist, Common, as well as been able to attend prestigious summer institutions such as Kneisel Hall. Being the first Hmong student at MSM has been especially meaningful to him, and he cares deeply about making classical music feel more open and accessible to others from underrepresented and indigenous backgrounds. Outside of music, he likes hiking, trying new foods on Beli paired with sightseeing, and collecting cologne!

How do you feel about being this year’s Student Commencement Speaker?

Owne: It feels incredibly surreal to be this year’s Student Commencement Speaker. When I walked into MSM for the first time, never did it come to my mind that I’d see myself standing before you all to share a piece of me. However, it does feel daunting. MSM is made up of so many creative voices, and no single person can fully capture all of them. I hope to approach this role with humility and real commitment to honoring the diversity of experiences here across all departments, backgrounds, and paths.

What is your most memorable MSM moment?

Owne: My most memorable moment here at MSM has to be the MSO3 concert under the baton of Maestra Mei Ann Chen, standing out to the audience and taking a collective bow. There is something special about rising up to the audience to thank them, seeing their smiling faces, proudly standing in the rays of the spotlight, and deafened by the roaring cheers.

What did you love about studying viola at MSM?

Owne: For me, it has to be the human-centered training that most conservatories lack. MSM is blanketed by the warmth of such a supportive community. It’s hard to find that sense of family in most schools.

What would you tell your freshman self AND parting words to your class?

Owne: It’s neither the journey nor destination that we should look towards, but the company that we keep. Remember who stood by you and never forget where you come from.

What piece of advice would you give to anyone starting MSM in the fall?

Owne: Curiosity keeps doors slightly ajar, fear closes them. Be curious rather than fearful.

What are you looking forward to after graduation? Any fun summer plans?

Owne: I am looking forward to attending a summer festival called Kneisel Hall. Aside from music, I just can’t wait to start hiking again, trying new foods, and hopefully travel outside the US for the first time!