YSM appoints three new faculty members and two collaborative pianists

The Yale School of Music is pleased to announce the appointment of Jonathan King, Dona D. Vaughn, and Boris Slutsky, who will all join the faculty in the 2026–27 academic year. The School is also happy to announce the selection of two new collaborative pianists, Mohamed Shams and Min Young Kang.  

“I’m thrilled to welcome such distinguished faculty to our community in the coming academic year,” said José García-León, the Henry and Lucy Moses Dean of the Yale School of Music. “This wonderful group of musicians, mentors, and teachers will enrich the life of the School in countless ways, and their artistry, wisdom, and dedication will make a lasting contribution to our students.” 
 

Jonathan King, Lecturer in Opera 

A fast-rising American conductor and GRAMMY-nominated collaborative pianist, King has worked with some of the classical music industry’s top artists and organizations. Announced in 2023 as Music Director for Opera Memphis, he has emerged as a dynamic artistic leader and civic musician, serving as a community connector through the company’s nationally recognized “30 Days of Opera” program.  Read on →
 

Dona D. Vaughn, Lecturer in Opera 

An acclaimed stage director, educator, and arts leader, Vaughn currently serves as Artistic Director of Opera Maine and brings decades of experience across opera, theater, and artist training programs. Vaughn will be stage director for Fall Opera Scenes and teach Acting and Movement for Yale Opera. Read on →

Boris Slutsky, Professor in the Practice of Piano  

Consistently acclaimed for his exquisite tonal beauty and superb artistry, Slutsky has appeared on nearly every continent as a soloist and recitalist, collaborating with eminent conductors and major orchestras throughout the United States, Europe, Canada, Israel, Latin America, and Asia. His appointment marks his return to Yale after previously serving as Visiting Professor of Piano in the 2018–19 academic year. Read on →
 

Mohamed Shams, Coordinator, Collaborative Piano 

Pianist Mohamed Shams enjoys a varied musical life as a recitalist, soloist, chamber musician and accompanist. He has performed diverse repertoire in the United States, Europe, and the Far East. Read on →
 

Min Young Kang, Lecturer in Collaborative Piano 

Korean-born pianist and artistic curator Dr. Min Young Kang has earned acclaim for both her captivating stage presence and innovative concert experiences. Dubbed “an absolute gem” by the Montecito Journal, her performances span the United States, France, and South Korea, gracing renowned venues such as Weill Recital Hall, Merkin Concert Hall, Château de Fontainebleau, the Sejong Center M Theater, and the Astral Concert Series. Read on →