Michelle Kwan is a guzheng artist based in Vancouver, Canada, known for blending the traditional Chinese harp with modern sounds to create a style that’s uniquely her own. Classically trained from a young age, Michelle draws from both her Chinese heritage and her love for Western pop and rock music, crafting a genre-crossing sound that resonates across cultures.
Her innovative guzheng covers have garnered over 2 million views on YouTube and have been featured by outlets like Guitar World, GlobalTV, CBC, and Huffington Post. Through her music, Michelle brings fresh energy to an ancient instrument, reimagining familiar songs and introducing new audiences to the guzheng’s expressive possibilities.
Michelle also plays with Son of James. They are a local Vancouver band that blends the soulful sounds of rock, funk, along with the mystical sounds of Chinese instruments.
Name:
Michelle Kwan
Genre:
Pop/ Rock
Founded:
I’ve been playing music since I was 6 years old.
Latest Video:
Favourite musician growing up:
I’d have to say the Spice Girls. They were the first group that really got me into music on my own terms. Before that, I mostly just listened to whatever my parents had on or classical piano pieces. But when I discovered the Spice Girls, it opened up a whole new world—MTV, pop albums, and just the excitement of following a band you loved.
Favourite musician now:
John Frusciante, best known as the guitarist for Red Hot Chili Peppers. His playing has been a huge inspiration for me, so much so that I started experimenting with hooking up guitar pedals to my guzheng to try and capture some of the textures and emotion he creates. There’s something raw and cathartic about the way he plays; the way he pours feeling into every note really resonates with me.
Guilty pleasure song:
Unwritten by Natasha Bedingfield
Live show ritual:
I always make sure to use the washroom before going on stage—practical but essential! Then I like to take a bit of time alone to centre myself and tune out any distractions. It helps me focus and get into the right headspace before performing.
EP or LP?
EPs
Early bird or night owl?
Night owl
Road or studio?
Road
Any shows or albums coming up?
Shanghai Speakeasy: Chinatown Confessions – Saturday, May 31st at Tyrant Studios.
Where can we follow you?
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Rapid Fire Local Questions:
What is your favourite local restaurant?
Big Way Hot Pot. It’s my go-to spot when I want something tasty, quick, and affordable. You get to build your own bowl by picking fresh ingredients—everything from seafood and meat to veggies—from a cold bar. Then they cook it up in the broth you choose. It’s fun, customizable, and always hits the spot.
What is your favourite street in your city and why?
Fraser Street. It runs right through the city and has such a cool mix of things—great restaurants, eclectic little shops, and some awesome grocery stores. The stretch from Fraser & Kingsway to Little India is especially lively—it’s starting to give Main Street a run for its money.
What is your favourite park in your city and why?
Capitol Hill Reservoir Park in Burnaby. It’s my favourite spot to catch sunsets—there’s a peaceful vibe and the view of the city from up there is incredible.
What is your favourite music venue in your city?
Tyrant Studios. It’s a cozy, laid-back space tucked above the Penthouse Nightclub, and it has this really intimate vibe that makes live music feel personal. It’s a great spot to discover local talent
What is your favourite music store in your city?
Long and McQuade Terminal Ave location. I really appreciate the staff there—they’ve always been supportive and patient during my process of exploring new sounds. When I first started experimenting with pedals and gear for the Chinese harp, they let me try out all kinds of equipment without any pressure to rent or buy.
