Praised by the Boston Globe as a “committed and dynamic” performer, violist Dr. Samuel Kelder’s interpretations of contemporary repertoire and virtuosic technique have led him to become a sought after soloist and chamber musician, traveling widely to work with many prominent artists and ensembles of today. Sam is a member of Sound Icon, Boston Modern Orchestra Project, Callithumpian Consort, East Coast Contemporary Ensemble, and founding member of Shizuka Viola Duo; and is a frequent guest artist with chamber ensembles across the East Coast.

An equally accomplished orchestral musician, Samuel is principal violist of the Cape Cod Chamber Orchestra, section violist of Portland Symphony, New Bedford Symphony, and the Boston Festival Orchestra.

In 2024 Sam launched Queer Ensemble Project with co-founder and cellist Mina Kim. Their mission is to uplift and celebrate queer artistry; amplifying the voices of queer artists, and creating concert  spaces with the intent of building a stronger community around music.

In addition to his faculty appointment at Boston University, he enjoys guiding a large private studio of violin and viola young artists.