INTERNATIONAL CLASSICAL MUSIC COMPETITION PIANO VIOLIN STRINGS OPERA WOODWINDS BRASS
Adeline Kong, first grader from Virginia, she has been playing cello since her 6th birthday. She loves to playing cello everyday. She was selected as “Honorable Mention Winner” from 2023 Prima Volta Music Competition.
Chloe was born in New Zealand and is currently eight years old. From a young age, she has shown a wide range of interests and hobbies. However, it was her love for the violin that truly stood out. After only one year of learning the violin, Chloe has made great strides and has become incredibly passionate about music. She hopes to continue down this path and make even greater progress in the future. Despite her young age, Chloe has already demonstrated a strong dedication to her craft and an impressive work ethic. With her talent and passion, there is no doubt that she will go far in the world of music.
Ivy is an 8-year-old girl who loves music. She started learning violin when she was 6.5 with her amazing violin online instructor Ms. Tingting Wang. After 8 months of virtual lessons, Ivy won the 2nd place of King's Peak International Music Competition(Group A) in May 2022. Then, she got the Honorable Certificate of Marker and Pioneer International Music Competition in June 2022. Ivy likes playing game and traveling with family. Ivy also loves sports. She rides bicycles and plays soccer with friends. After all, Ivy enjoys playing violin, and would accomplish more and more on her musical journey.
Anri Ko is a 12 year old in the United States, and began studying violin when she was four years old, and is studying with Ms. Yayoi Numazawa. She also started learning piano at the age of four, and is currently studying with Ms. Natalie Zhu. Since then, she has won numerous competitions, such as first and second prize in the Little Mozarts International Competition, and multiple awards in the Elite International Music Competition, which gave her a few opportunities to perform at Carnegie Hall and other concert halls. She has also won first prize in the Crescendo International Competition in the winter, and won 3rd prize in the King's Peak International Music Competition in 2021.
Rosha Ipakchi is an Iranian-American 11-year-old violinist hailing from Virginia, USA. With a musical journey spanning 5 and a half years, Rosha initially studied under the guidance of Eric Davenport for the first two years, followed by three and a half years of tutelage from Monika Dorosheff, whom she continues to study with currently.
Rosha's passion for music stems from her familial background with both of her parents being musicians and her aunt being a violinist. For her, music is an avenue for emotional expression. Each piece she plays tells a captivating story filled with various emotions, from sadness to happiness, excitement to anger. Rosha strives to convey these sentiments through her performances, using her instrument as a means of acting through sound itself.
Looking to the future, Rosha aspires to grace the stage as a soloist, sharing her musical gifts with audiences worldwide. Beyond her musical pursuits, Rosha finds joy in reading fiction novels, embarking on biking adventures and playing with her little brother.
Ioana discovered the beauty of the cello sound 4 years ago and she loves it. She plays her cello with passion and hopes to become an important cellist. She uses every chance to be on the stage, she enjoys playing as a soloist with the orchestra and she loves to travel for masterclasses to improve her technique.
My name is Konrad Martuszewski. I started learning to play the cello at the age of 7. I attend the Zygmunt Noskowski Music School in Gdynia. I am in the cello class of Mrs. Jadwiga Rudka-Stefaniak. My public debut took place in 2020 at the VI National Competition ,,Cello Miniature" in Warsaw. It was a fantastic and successful experience for me, and after this wonderful performance, playing the cello became an important part of my everyday life. I have taken part in regional, national, and international cello competitions, winning podium places at such competitions as. I took first place at the prestigious King's Peak International Music Competition Summer 2021, the International Music Competition "Opus 2022" - 1st place in Krakow, Geneva International Music Competition 2022 - 1st place, National Cello Competition "Cellolove" in Kraków-1 st place, King’s Peak International Music Competition 2023 - 1st place, Lugano International Music Competition 2023 - 1st place. I love playing cello.
Zijing Liu was born in China. He loves music and long-distance running. He is a curious and persistent boy who likes animals and values a healthy diet.
Zihan Fang, 8th grader in Seattle, WA. He loves to play violin in the orchestra with friends. He is also a big fan of origami.
Wiktoria Martuszewska has been playing the violin for 7 years. She is learning to play the violin in the class of Professor Małgorzata Skorupa at the Secondary Music School in Gdynia. She has participated in many violin masterclasses with outstanding violinists of international renown: Prof. Janusz Wawrowski (Poland), Prof. Agata Szymczewska (Poland), Prof. Piotr Tarcholik (Poland), Prof. Wiesław Kwaśny (Poland), Prof. Marcin Baranowski and others. Since her debut on the big stage in 2019, she has performed regularly as a soloist, chamber musician and orchestra member. She has collaborated with conductor, among others: Monika Bachowska (Poland). She is a member of the Lusławice Talents Orchestra. She is several times a scholarship holder of the President of the City of Gdynia. She is a laureate of many international and national violin competitions. Recent competition prizes are: Laureate of the National Competition for Violinists, Violaists, Celloists and Bassists in the framework of the 5th PRESTO Festival, Poland § I Prize - International Tiziano Rosetti Music Competition, Switzerland § I Prize - International Music Competition, Vienna § I Prize - International Music Competition, Rome § I Prize - International Music Competition, USA § I Prize – Lugano International Music Competition, Italy
I have been playing the violin for 9 years. I am learning to play the violin in the class of professor Małgorzata Skorupa at the Secondary Music School in Gdynia. I have participated in many violin masterclasses with outstanding violinists of international renown: Prof. Janusz Wawrowski (Poland), Prof. Piotr Tarcholik (Poland), Prof. Wiesław Kwaśny (Poland), Prof. Marcin Baranowski. Since I debut on the big stage in 2018, I have performed regularly as a soloist, chamber musician and orchestra member. I have collaborated with conductor, among others: Monika Bachowska (Poland). I am a member of the Lusławice Orchestra of Krzysztof Penderecki's Talents. I am a scholarship holder of the President of the City of Gdynia. I am a laureate of many international and national violin competitions. Recent competition prizes are: Laureate of the National Competition for Violinists, Violaists, Celloists and Bassists in the framework of the 5th PRESTO Festival, Poland § I Prize - International Tiziano Rosetti Music Competition, Switzerland § I Prize - International Music Competition, Vienna § I Prize - Muse International Music Competition, Athens. I love to play the violin.
Swansea Siu has been studying violin since the age of 5. Immersed in classical music from a young age, she enjoys spreading the art through performing and charity work. She is a top award winner of Beethoven Young Musician Competition, London International Music Competition, Grand Maestro International Music Competition (2022 Special Edition in memory of Queen Elizabeth II of United Kingdom), North American Virtuoso International Music Competition, Canadian International Music Competition, Pelican International Music Competition, Quebec Music Competition, and London Classical Competition, Birmingham International Music Competition, Amadeus International Music Awards, Grand Prize Virtuoso Competition in Paris, International Clara Schumann Competition, Caneres International Music Competition Vienna, Euterpe Music Awards, EMC – Sibelius Music Competition, Charleston International Music Competition, American Protégé International Piano & Strings Competition 2023, Fanny Mendelssohn International Competition, Universal Stars Music Competition, World Classical Music Awards as well as a first prize winner of Golden Classical Music Awards International Competition, BTHVN Wien Competition, Trinity International Music Competition, Global Genius Music Competition (2022 Winter Season), Beethoven International Music Competition (2023 Season 1), EMC – Golden Sound Award, Best Classical Musicians Awards (2023 Season 1), King’s Peak International Music Competition, UK International Music Competition, Euro Elite International Music Competition, Grand Prize Virtuoso Competition in Brussels Belgium, Grand Prize Virtuoso Competition in London England , London Young Musician Awards, Manchester International Music Competition (2023 Season 1) and Satori Summer Music Festival. Swansea has performed in music halls such as Segerstrom Center for the Arts of Orange County California, Weill Recital Hall of Carnegie Hall at New York City, and the Amphithéâtre Cité de la Musique-Philharmonie de Paris France, and the Studio Recital Hall at Centre for Fine Arts of Brussels, Belgium. Swansea is a current violin student at Orange County School of the Arts’ Strings and Orchestra Conservatory. She also performs with the OCSA MONTAGE! String Quintet to serve the local communities. She is based in Southern California. In her free time, she enjoys dancing ballet and playing piano.
I started playing the violin in 2018 at the age of 10 years old. And I really love playing it everyday step by step I was learning new stuff til today I can play a lot of music.
William Xie is a high school student who has enjoyed music since a very young age. He started playing piano at the age of six. Around the age of ten, William discovered his love for string instruments. He especially loves viola’s rich and expressive tone. William has placed in top seats, including first chair, in All-Region and All-State competitions each year he is eligible to compete. Aside from solo performances and competitions, William also loves playing in orchestra. He is the principal violist of his school’s top orchestra, which has won prestigious orchestra competitions during his tenure. He also enjoys chamber music and has been in different ensembles with his friends.
Lina Seo is a ninth grader that has been playing the Viola for five years. She has also been playing in Maryland Classical Youth Orchestra for four years, played in Maryland Allstate orchestra and Montgomery Allcounty orchestra.
Alexandra Kim, a 16-year-old from Pasadena, CA, began playing the violin at age 4 and the viola at age 13. Under the tutelage of Dr. Cheryl Scheidemantle, she has received numerous top prizes and accolades, including from the American Protege Music Talent Competition, Charleston International Music Competition, California American String Teachers Association, Antelope Valley Bach Competition, Junior Bach Festival, MTAC Scholarship Competition, MTAC VOCE Competition, and Satori Music Festival. An avid chamber musician, she currently plays in a string quartet at the Colburn School. She enjoys sharing the joy of music with her community by regularly performing in nursing homes and hospitals. Outside of viola, she is passionate about math and journalism.
Veronica Kuo started playing the piano at age 5 and decided to learn the cello when she was 8 years old. She is currently a sophomore in high school and has participated in many competitions such as the 2022 IMAS Competition 9th Annual Talented Young Musician Olympia Competition for piano(Gold prize) and the 2021 Pelican International Music Competition(1st prize in both piano and cello). She has also passed the Certificate of Merit Level 10 piano Level 10 cello exam and won State Honor. Veronica has also won first place in the Kings Peak 2022 spring competition. She has participated in her school orchestra since middle school and performed at Midwest with her school orchestra in December 2022.
I have been playing violin since I was four years old. From Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star, through the Suzuki books, and now at famous concertos, my violin journey has been fun, challenging, and very rewarding. Currently, I am a member of Melody Connects, which is a non-profit group that offers free weekly violin lessons to underprivileged youth. I am also the Concertmaster of East Bay Youth Orchestra, which holds multiple charity concerts every year to benefit local food bank and to bring music to families with special needs
Lauren Juntunen, 17 years old, started playing violin at age 6 and is currently studying under Dr. Ayako Yonetani. Recently she received Honorable Mention in the FSMTA Concerto Competition. In 2022, she won 1st prize in the FSMTA String Senior Competition and received Honorable Mention in the Florida MTNA Competition (Senior Category). In 2021, she won 1st prize in the Charleston International Romantic Music Competition and the OPUS Music State Competition . She also was placed Honorable Mention in the Florida MTNA Competition (Senior Category) and 2nd in the FSMTA Concerto Competition (Intermediate Category). In 2020, she placed 2nd in the Florida’s MTNA State Junior String Competition. In 2021 and 2022, she was selected for the Florida All-State Orchestra. Before moving to Florida, Lauren lived in Japan where she studied for four years under Atsushi Shimizu. In 2019, she was a finalist in the Japan Classic Music Association Competition and she won third place at the Japan Junior Violin Competition.
Dedicated to her passion for music, Chloe has been playing viola since the second grade. She has placed in competitions such as the Charleston International Music Competition, the American Fine Arts Festival, and GLORY International Baroque Music Competition. Besides solo playing, she also enjoys playing in ensembles, being in the Maryland Classic Youth Orchestra since 2015, and performing at Carnegie Hall with the Honors Performance Series in 202. Beyond classical music, Chloe has also played with the Young Artists of America, as featured on Maryland Public Television, and with her school's pit orchestra for its musical productions
Arthur Scott (7) studies violin with Lucinda Marvin, piano with Irina Elkina, and composition with Sarah Miller at MacPhail Center for Music. Arthur also participates in Minnesota Youth Symphonies and House of Hope Choir School. In 2022, Arthur was awarded the Gary Sipes merit scholarship (piano) at MacPhail. Arthur won first prizes in the international Great Composers Competition: Art of Strings (violin), and Best of Kabalevsky (piano). He also won the Mary West Solo Competition (violin), and received the merit prize in the Opus state competition (violin). In 2023 Arthur won first prize in the Glory International Piano Competition. In addition to music, Arthur loves reading, making movies, and classic muscle cars.
My name is Yucong Luo. I’m 8 years old from Shen Zhen, China. I have been playing the violin under Ms. Tingting Wang’s online instruction for 37 hours within 18 months. This’s my first official recording. My other pastimes include swimming and gaming.
Cason Tam is a 7-year-old boy from Hong Kong. He started learning cello when he was 5 years old, under the tutelage of Judy Lui, one of the most popular cellists and sought-after cello tutors in Hong Kong. Thanks to Miss Lui’s teaching, Cason has achieved multiple prizes in local and international competitions. Some of his many recent awards include: 1st Prize in France OPUS ARTIS PARIS “Music Competition Online 2022”; 1st Place in Tokyo International Youth Music Competition 2022; 1st Prize in International Youth Music Competitions 2022, Atlanta USA (Cello Duo); 1st Place in the 10th Hong Kong International Youth Performance Arts Festival Macau District (Cello Grade 6); Gold Prize and Excellent Stage Presentation Special Prize in UK Global Genius Music Competition 2021-22 winter; 1st Prize in USA Charleston International Music Competition “2022 Classical Music Competition”; Gold Award in the 5th Italy-Hong Kong International Music Competition 2022; 1st Place in Rococo International Music Festival 2022 (HK School Music Festival Cello Junior); Gold Prize in London Young Musician 2021-22 season 3; 1st Prize in The Art of Strings, 6th Edition 2021; 1st Prize in Rome “Grand Prize Virtuoso” 2021 and was invited to perform at the Parco della Musica (Italy); 1st Place in Red Maple Music Competition 2021 fall, Toronto, and was invited to perform at the Tribute Communities Recital Hall, York University (Canada); 1st Prize in Canada 21st Century Talents Music Competition 2021 summer; 1st Prize in King's Peak International Music Competition 2021 spring; 1st Prize Debut in International Arts Festival “Magic Sounds of Romania” 2021; Grand Prize (100% perfect score) in Classical Music International Competition 2021, Atlanta USA; Gold Medal in Canada Quebec Music Competition 2021; Gold Prize in Hong Kong-Macau Youth Music Competition 2021; 1st Prize in London “Grand Prize Virtuoso” 2021 and was invited to perform at the Royal Albert Hall.
Myla Larmond, 10, has been playing violin for seven years and currently studies with Dr. Alex Shiozaki in Juilliard’s Preparatory Division, where she is a member of the Music Advancement Program Orchestra (principal second violin) and String Ensemble. Previously, Myla studied with Carolyn Bever in Vermont and Elizabeth Faidley in New York. She has played in various ensembles within the Vermont Youth Orchestra Association and was a soloist with Vermont Youth Strings in December 2021, performing at the Flynn Theater in Burlington, Vermont. The past two summers, she received merit scholarships to Interlochen’s Junior Advanced Strings Program and was winner of Interlochen’s 2021 Junior Honors Recital. Most recently, Myla was awarded Grand Prize/Jury’s Pick in the 2022 East Coast International Competition, the Toby Ann Stavisky NY State Senator Award, and First Prize in the Elite International Concerto Competition. 2023 will bring a masterclass performance with Stefan Jackiw, a solo recital at Carnegie Hall, and a solo performance with the American Sinfionetta.
Jonna is a 9 year old girl who loves music and sports. She has been learning the violin online since she was 7.5 in August 2020 with her amazing violin online instructor Ms. Tingting Wang. After one year study online, Joanna got the Honorary Mention in 2021 MEDICI competition, the Distinction score in ABRSM grade 2 exam. In July 2022, Joanna got admitted in San Diego Youth Symphony-Debut Strings. Other than music, Joanna enjoys playing games and gardening with her family.
Gianna has been learning violin since she was 8 years old in July 2020 with her great violin instructor Ms. Tingting Wang. After nearly 2 years of study, Gianna and her friend Sophie got the First Place in Spring 2022 KPIMC ensemble B group. Also, she got admitted in San Diego Youth Symphony- Symphonic String. She enjoys violin lessons and loves dogs and drawing.
My name is Ting En Lin. I’m 10 years old from Chile and I have been playing violin under Ms.Tingting Wang’s online instruction for 10 months. I have passed the ASTACAP violin grade 3 exam. I love having violin lesson online with Ms. Wang. My other pastimes include swimming and math.
Julia has been learning violin since she was 6 years old in July 2020 with her great violin instructor Ms. Tingting Wang. Julia won the Third Place in both March 2021 KPIMC and August 2021 KPIMC violin group A. She enjoys her violin lessons and loves dogs and drawing.
My name is Tsum Hei Lu. I’m 10 years old from China and I have been playing violin under Ms.Tingting Wang’s online instruction for 18 months. I have passed the ASTACAP violin grade 3 exam. I love having violin lesson online with Ms. Tingting Wang who totally changed my music study. My other pastimes include sports, games, English speaking.
Parson Tam is a 10-year-old boy from Hong Kong. He began playing the cello when he was 6 years old. He currently studies with Judy Lui, one of the most popular and sought-other cello teachers in Hong Kong. Parson has achieved multiple awards in local and international competitions including: 1st Prize in Vivaldi International Music Competition 2022 season 4 (Concerto Category); 1st Place in the 10th Hong Kong International Youth Performance Arts Festival Macau District (Diploma Cello Class); 1st Prize in 2022 International Youth Music Competitions, Atlanta USA (Cello Duo); 1st Prize with Honorable Mention in France OPUS ARTIS PARIS “Music Competition Online 2022”; Prize of Director of the Mahler Institute Prague and 2nd Prize in 2022 Gustav Mahler Prize Cello Competition, Prague Czech Republic; 1st Prize and a full scholarship to the Casalmaggiore International Festival in Italy in the 5th Italy-Hong Kong International Music Competition 2022; Gold Award in Singapore Raffles International Music Festival 2022; 1st Place in Tokyo International Youth Music Competition 2022; 1st Place in the IV International Liszt Ferenc Competition, Hungary-Budapest Final; 1st Prize in Bach International Music Competition 2022; 1st Prize in 2021 France Music Competition 3° by LMDC; 1st Prize in New York “Golden Classical Music Awards” International Competition 2021 and was invited to perform at the Carnegie Hall; 1st Place in Red Maple Music Competition 2021 fall, Toronto, and was invited to perform at the Tribute Communities Recital Hall, York University (Canada); 1st Prize in Rome “Grand Prize Virtuoso” 2021 and was invited to perform at the Parco della Musica (Italy); 1st Prize in London “Grand Prize Virtuoso” 2021 and was invited to perform at the Royal Albert Hall; 1st Place and a cash prize of CNY 2000 in the 7th Hong Kong International Music Festival Final Round; 1st Prize in Salzburg “Grand Prize Virtuoso” 2020 and was invited to perform at the Wiener Saal, Mozarteum (Austria). In summer 2022, Parson also had his orchestral debut as a soloist with the Hong Kong Young Soloist Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Maestro Kelvin Ngai performing Saint-Saëns Allegro appassionato opus 43. It was an astonishing experience for Parson.
Mia Gao is a 7th grader. Mia plays as first violin in The NEC Youth Symphony (YS), which is composed of advanced young musicians, most between the ages of 13 and 18. Members are selected from hundreds of applicants through annual auditions. Mia ranked 2nd place in the all-district orchestra. Mia served as Concertmaster of American Youth Debut Orchestra and Second Violin Principle of American Youth String Ensemble. Mia has won 2nd place of American Youth String Ensemble competition.
My name is Giulia Restivo, I was born in Verona, Italy, in 2009. I started studying violin at the age of three and now I’m attending my city’s Conservatory. I like all classical music but I especially love Bach’s masterpieces and the history of music. I won prizes in national and international competitions.
Kexin Li is 11 years old and a 6th grader in Queensland, Australia. She commenced violin studies at the age of 6, and is currently studying with Alan Smith, Associate Concertmaster of Queensland Symphony Orchestra. At the age of 10, she was awarded a High Distinction in AMEB violin comprehensive Grade 8 exam. In 2022, she became the youngest violinist in the Queensland Youth Orchestra 2 when she was 10. Since 2020, she has performed a wide range of repertoire with Queensland Youth Orchestra in their concert performances. In 2022, she entered the solo music competition for the first time and won the Platinum Award in the 13 years and under strings session for the Southside String Festival. As a young talent, she was invited to perform as the youngest musician at QYO Chamber Ensemble Concert in August 2022. She is currently a First Violin in the Queensland Youth Orchestra 2 and Concertmaster of Ironside Chamber Strings.
James Post (11) asked for a violin when he was 3 years old and has played ever since. He began playing piano when he was 8, and also pursues musical composition. He has studied violin under the direction of Ronda Cole, David Strom and Chris Sanchez. He attended the Heifetz International Music Institute in 2022. He plays first violin in the American Youth Philharmonic Orchestra’s (AYPO) string ensemble. He won the New Talent Award in the Washington Performing Arts Feder Strings Competition, first place in the NVMTA Strings Concerto Competition in both Elementary and Intermediate divisions, second place in the American Youth Musician Union Competition, second place in the AYPO Solo Competition, and honorable mention in the Misbin Family Memorial Chamber Music Competition.
I am Ahmet Cemal, I was born on 09.09.2009. I am an 8th grade viola student at Bilkent Music and Performing Arts Preparatory Secondary School. I have been playing the viola for 4 years. I get very successful trainings with Doç.Dr.Sema Hakioğlu. This was my first competition experience, winning the pre-selection is incredibly exciting. Last August, I attended the master class program with Tatyana Masurenko. I am interested in the history of music, every sound I hear excites me, there is a magnificent harmony of nature. I am engaged in equestrian sports, I love swimming and Kendo sports.
Rachelle Amelia Tan, from Singapore, has been learning music since 5 years old. Rachelle enjoys writing classical music and loves taking part in music competitions. In the recent years, she has won multiple top awards for performing on the violin and the viola. A seasoned performer, Rachelle has been invited to play on multiple occasions at various prestigious venues including Carnegie Hall (New York), the Royal Albert Hall (London), Beethoven House (Bonn) and Solitär, Mozarteum (Salzburg). Music is a great part of Rachelle’s life and through her performances, she looks forward to sharing her music with you.
Natalyn enjoys music and has keen interest in Chinese Orchestra instruments such as the Guzheng. She is currently a member of her school’s co-curricular activity (CCA) Guzheng Ensemble Team and has represented her school in the Singapore Youth Festival Art Presentation for Instrumental Ensemble (Guzheng). With her short span of Guzheng study, Natalyn has clinched numerous Top Prizes in the International Music Competitions – Grand Maestro International Music Competition, Trinity International Music Competition, Global Genius Music Competition, Universal Star Music Competition, World Grand Prix International Music Contest, and the International Youth Music Competition etc. She is also honoured to be invited to the 2023 Annual IYMC New York Prize Winners’ Recital. With her strong passion in music, Natalyn hopes to further pursue music in the future.
Sofie has been studying guitar from the age of 5 and is currently at Levine School of Music with master teacher Franco Platino. She has played in multiple recitals, juries, and competitions, winning awards in the King’s Peak International Music Competition, the Elite International Music competition, the American Classical Musician Youth Award, the Canadian International Music Competition, the Nouvelles Etoiles International Online Music Competition, the International Youth Musical Talent Contest, and the prestigious Myrna Sislen Youth Guitar Competition. She plays cello in her Middle School orchestra as well. When not playing her guitar, Sofie loves playing soccer, running, writing poetry, reading, and studying math and physics.
Elena Kobayashi, 16, is currently a junior at Henry M. Gunn High School in Palo Alto. She began violin at age 7, studied with Hiroko Suzuki Hagman in Sweden and currently studies violin with Yi Zhou, the principal viola at the San Francisco Ballet Orchestra. She was a first-place winner at Crescendo International Music Competition, earning her performances at Carnegie Hall and second-place winner at San Francisco Innovative International Competition, Junior Violin Division 2020 season. She has attended the Wells Music Summer School International Strings Week 2018. She was also a member of Golden State Youth Orchestra in 2019-20 season.
Swansea Siu has been studying violin since the age of 5. Immersed in classical music from a young age, she enjoys spreading the art through performing and charity work. She is a first prize winner of Golden Classical Music Awards International Competition, BTHVN Wien Competition, Trinity International Music Competition, Global Genius Music Competition, Beethoven International Music Competition, and Satori Summer Music Festival. Swansea has performed in music halls such as Segerstrom Center for the Arts of Orange County California, Weill Recital Hall of Carnegie Hall at New York City, and the Amphithéâtre Cité de la Musique-Philharmonie de Paris France. Swansea is a current violin student at Orange County School of the Arts’ Strings and Orchestra Conservatory. She is based in Southern California. In her free time, she enjoys dancing ballet and playing piano.
Michelle Koo is a junior who has played the viola for six years and studies with Adam Smyla. She has been invited to play at the Junior Bach Festival for the past three years. In 2021, she won first place and Best New Piece Prize in the Northern California Viola Society Young Violists Competition. She has been awarded Merit in the 2023 YoungArts National Competition. Since 2019, she has been a violist in the San Francisco Symphony Youth Orchestra (SFSYO) and is now co-principal. She has participated in the National Youth Orchestra 2 (NYO2) program of 2021 and 2022 and was principal violist of NYO2 2022. Outside of music, she loves to hang out with her family and dog.
Florence Wei, 14, is a freshman attending Saratoga High School. She began playing the cello since age eight and is currently studying under Jihee Kim. Florence has won various awards including the U.S. Open Music Competition 2022, the United States International Music Competition 2020 and 2021, American Protégé International Concerto Competition 2021, and CAPMT Concerto competition 2020. She was selected to perform at the Junior Bach Festival in 2021 and 2022. Florence is playing in the Golden State Youth Orchestra Senior Symphony and she is also the principal cellist in her high school Freshman Orchestra. Florence is selected for 2023 California High School All-State Orchestra. Florence is an avid chamber player. She attended Santa Clara Chamber Music Academy and Music at Tateuchi summer chamber program. Besides music, Florence enjoys various forms of writing, science, and skiing.
A New Jersey native, violinist Sophie Schwartz studies with Bela Horvath at the Manhattan School of Music’s Pre-College Division. Sophie has spent her summers at the Philadelphia International Music Festival and the Kinhaven Music School. She won first place in the 2022 Vivo International Music Competition, first place in the Crescendo International Music Competition in both 2017 and 2022, and second place in the 2022 Salzburg Grand Prize Virtuoso International Music Competition. Sophie performs as concertmaster of the Friends with Music Chamber Orchestra and the Glen Rock HS Chamber Orchestra; she’s also a first violinist in the MSM Symphony Orchestra.
Jose Della Casa is a 11th grader at Westminster Christian School in Miami, Florida. He began violin at age 6. He has been studying for the last few years with Mr. Guangshu Song. He has been selected twice to participate in the Florida All-State Orchestra where he had the opportunity to play under the direction of Maestro Steven Amundson. He participated in the Florida Music Performance Assessment Solo where he earned Superior with Distinction. He has attended music summer camps at the Young Musicians Advanced Camp at the University of Miami. Jose also enjoys science, soccer, and fencing (foil discipline).
Larissa Wiest is currently studying at Universität Mozarteum Salzburg with Muriel Razavi. She is a numerous prizewinner at the german music competition Jugend Musiziert, as well as a prizewinner of the International Competition Malopolska 2022.
"Michael Paouris is a Virtuoso Soloist of the Bouzouki and Guitar, Composer, Arranger and Producer from Greece. He began his professional career at the age of 8 and he was characterized as a “phenomenon” for his technique and music perception. He has already released 41 albums with the participation of great guests from all around the world. He counts 30+ 1st Prizes International Awards in Classical music and he has performed in the most well-known venues around Europe and the USA. Michael Paouris is the first who entered the Bouzouki officially in Jazz music and he is the first who brought – and keeps going - the most innovative musical works in 100 years history of the Bouzouki. His collaborations include musician legends like Al Di Meola who said: “Michael Paouris has amazing musical instincts. It’s a «Humble Genius»! He is the Fastest Bouzouki player on the planet Earth!”
Andrea was born in Australia in 2016. Growing up she enjoys singing, dancing and playing musical instruments. She started her violin journey at age of 4. She loves performing at concerts and also playing for her friends at school. At home, she likes to teach daddy and younger sister how to play violin.
Christina Luo was born in Sydney Australia in Dec. 2014. She started learning violin when she was 5 years old and she just passed the AMEB Grade 2 exam earlier this year. Practicing violin every day is a hard job for her, but she really enjoys playing music to people, especially when the audience admires her performance.
Lynn Song is a 7-years-old girl from Melbourne, Australia. She has been taking violin lessons for 16 hours online (30 minutes/ week) with her great violin instructor Tingting Wang who lives in California, USA. This is Lynn’s first time attending international competition. Besides violin, she also likes playing piano, traveling and walking her dog.
Evan was born in Edmonton of Canada 2015. He started to play cello at the age 4 with Mrs Diana since 2019. He is a member of the Edmonton Endpin and often performs in the Edmonton area. Evan is studying with the Baroque and contemporary Cellist-Josephine van Lier since 2022. He also has great potential in playing harp, drum and piano, and his improvisations “Sound of the Island ”have also been successful in harp concerts this summer. Beside music, Evan has a wide range of interests and is enthusiastic about public welfare. He likes reading and singing French song at his school ,He also likes horse riding, hockey, fencing and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, etc. Evan loves music and believes that the power of music can help more people. This summer Evan held a garage sale with his cello solo at his community.The performance came to raise and donate money for Ukrainian children, and also won praise and affirmation from the Cellist-Ian Maksin.
Evan was born in Canada in April 2015.He interested in play Harp from this year 2022. Evan has joined the 5 Days Summer camp and learn how to play Harp with the Harpist-Jacquie McNulty at Winspear Centre in July 2022. Evan independently composed a harp piece “Sound of The Island ”and performed it at a harp concert,and his first improvisation has also been successful in harp concert.Evan also love to play cello. He is a member of the Edmonton Endpin cello group and often performs in the Edmonton area. Evan is currently studying with cellist Josephin van liver. He has great potential in playing musical instruments ,such as Drums , Piano and rain stick,etc.In addition to music, Evan has a wide range of interests and is also enthusiastic about public welfare. He likes horse riding, ice hockey, fencing and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, etc. He loves music and believes that the power of music can help more people. This summer Evan held a charity sale and cello solo. The performance came to raise and donate money for Ukrainian children, and won praise and affirmation from cellist Ian Maskin.
Scarlett is a 9 year old girl who loves music. She has been learning the violin since she was 5. She feels strongly for her music and tries her best to bring out her emotions. She has also attained distinction for her ABRSM Grade 8 exam when she was 8. For the past few years, she has participated and received numerous awards and trophies from various competitions for both local and international for violin. She hopes that her performances can bring joy to everyone.
8-year-old Isaac Yong has been playing the violin for slightly more than 2 years. He started lessons when Australia went into a lockdown for the first time due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Isaac learns from his dad (Chee Yong) who is a professional violinist/ teacher. Isaac has also started piano lessons since January 2022. Other than music, Isaac enjoys playing games on his Nintendo Switch and Roblox.
Eyan started learning violin at the age of 5+ at the Nanyang Academy of Fine Art, School of the Young Talents, Singapore and also picked up 2nd instrument, piano at the age of 6. He has since wanting to be a musician one day, going around the world to perform. Hoping to use music to make everyone around him happy.
My name is Katie Maben and I’m 10 years old from Texas. I’ve been playing violin since I was 6 and piano since I was 5. My favorite composer is Chopin and I especially enjoy his Etudes. I spent this summer at the Colburn Academy's intensive piano program and have started my 3rd season with the Youth Orchestra of San Antonio. My other pastimes include writing, animation, reading, and spending time with my friends and family.
My name is Konrad Martuszewski. I started learning to play the cello at the age of 7. I attend the Zygmunt Noskowski Music School in Gdynia, I am in the cello class of Mrs Jadwiga Rudka-Stefaniak. My public debut took place in 2020 at the VI National Competition ,,Cello Miniature" in Warsaw. It was a fantastic and successful experience for me, and after this wonderful performance, playing the cello became an important part of my everyday life. I have participated in regional, national and international cello competitions winning podium places including. I took first place at the prestigious King's Peak International Music Competition Summer 2021, the International Music Competition "Opus 2022" - 1st place in Kraków, Europe Online Music Competition 2022- 1st place, Geneva International Music Competition 2022 - 1st place, National Cello Competition "Cellolove" in Kraków-I place, XXII Gdynia String Chamber Music Competition I won the diploma of laureate of the Special Prize in duo with violin, in June 2021, I won first place at the VII National Competition ,,Cello Miniature" in Warsaw. I am a laureate of the 6th National Presto Competition and was awarded the title of artistic personality in 2022. I am a scholarship holder of the Mayor of the City of Gdynia. My passion is music and, of course, playing the cello.
My name is Eliza Chen. I am 10 years old, and I have been playing cello for 3 and a half years. One of my interests other than cello is badminton, and I also like reading science fiction books. My favorite color is blue because my parakeet is blue. My favorite composer is Bach, and my favorite piece is Suite No. 1, Gigue.
Shuyu Zhang. A junior in New Zealand primary school. Started playing cello at age seven, passed ABRMS cello Grade 8 at this year.
Do Hoang Ngoc Yen is a 14-year-old violin student of Ho Chi Minh City's Conservatory of Music under the guide of teacher Le Tri Toan and doctor Chuong Vu. She was awarded Third prize in Virtual International Music Competition ( VIMC ) and was a finalist of Chiang Mai Ginastera Music Competition. She is also a brilliant student who has received scholarships from the conservatory she is learning in.
Joel Sohn is 11 years old and a 6th grader in Virginia, USA. He started his musical journey by learning piano at the age of five. He started playing cello at the age of eight and has been studying with Sung-Hee Choi since then. He is currently a cellist in the American Youth Philharmonic Orchestras from 2021. He enjoys swimming, reading, and practicing taekwondo during his free time and has recently found his passion for yo-yoing.
Yuen-Chit, Chan is a twelve-year-old Cello virtuoso attending St. Francis Xavier’s College in Hong Kong. He began by studying piano when he was four and fell in love with the responsiveness of the strings, then switched to cello at age of nine, started studying with his teacher, Sit-Kan, Hui. Yuen Chit has proven his musical excellence throughout numerous competitions including but not limited to, 2022-23 London Young Musician S1 Silver Prize (Young Artist aged 12 & under), 2021 World Classical Music Awards (Bronze Prize in Age 10-11), 3rd Place from 2021-2022 King’s Peak Music Competition (Winter season) among others.
Pakawat Poldetch was born in 2010 in Bangkok, Thailand, and is currently a Grade 7 student at Ruamrudee International School. He studied the classical guitar at age 9. He has won guitar competitions in Thailand and abroad throughout the past two years. Including a Gold Prize in the Thailand International Guitar Festival (2021), a Gold Prize winner in the Global Genius Music Competition (2021), a Platinum Medalist in the 2022 Quebec Music Competition Online International, a First-Place winner in the Red Maple Music Competition (2022), and a First Prize winner for the International Music Competition (London Grand Prize Virtuoso).
Currently studying at Queen’s College, Carson started playing the violin at the age of 5. Since 2017, he has joined a wide range of competitions under the guidance of Prof Daria Kovtunova. In 2021, Carson won the first-place violin (Age Group D) in the King’s Peak International Music Competition judged by Professor Boris Kuschnir, and the third (junior category) in Llanes International Violin Competition which is held in Spain. In 2022, he is proud to have been awarded the second in American Music Talent Competition.
I have been playing the violin for 9 years. I am learning to play the violin in the class of professor Małgorzata Skorupa at the Secondary Music School in Gdynia. I have participated in many violin masterclasses with outstanding violinists of international renown: Prof. Janusz Wawrowski (Poland), Prof. Piotr Tarcholik (Poland), Prof. Wiesław Kwaśny (Poland), Prof. Marcin Baranowski. Since I debut on the big stage in 2018, I have performed regularly as a soloist, chamber musician and orchestra member. I have collaborated with conductor, among others: Monika Bachowska (Poland). I am a member of the Lusławice Orchestra of Krzysztof Penderecki's Talents. I am a scholarship holder of the President of the City of Gdynia. I am a laureate of many international and national violin competitions. Recent competition prizes are: Laureate of the National Competition for Violinists, Violaists, Celloists and Bassists in the framework of the 5th PRESTO Festival, Poland § I Prize - International Tiziano Rosetti Music Competition, Switzerland § I Prize - International Music Competition, Vienna § I Prize - Muse International Music Competition, Athens. I love to play the violin.
I have been playing the violin for 9 years. I am learning to play the violin in the class of professor Małgorzata Skorupa at the Secondary Music School in Gdynia. I have participated in many violin masterclasses with outstanding violinists of international renown: Prof. Janusz Wawrowski (Poland), Prof. Piotr Tarcholik (Poland), Prof. Wiesław Kwaśny (Poland), Prof. Marcin Baranowski. Since I debut on the big stage in 2018, I have performed regularly as a soloist, chamber musician and orchestra member. I have collaborated with conductor, among others: Monika Bachowska (Poland). I am a member of the Lusławice Orchestra of Krzysztof Penderecki's Talents. I am a scholarship holder of the President of the City of Gdynia. I am a laureate of many international and national violin competitions. Recent competition prizes are: Laureate of the National Competition for Violinists, Violaists, Celloists and Bassists in the framework of the 5th PRESTO Festival, Poland § I Prize - International Tiziano Rosetti Music Competition, Switzerland § I Prize - International Music Competition, Vienna § I Prize - Muse International Music Competition, Athens. I love to play the violin.
My name is Mia Caroline Diaz Baez I am 16 years old and I live in Havana, Cuba.I study at the "National School of Arts", doing my first year of middle level.I started studying the Violin at the age of 8 doing my elementary level at the Vocational School of Arts "Eduardo Abela" of the province Artemisa.I develop in my instrument both at my school and outside it participating in activities. I have received master classes from Professor Irasema Jimenez. I am currently studying with my teacher Verónica Reyes Toscaeva, a member of the National Symphony Orchestra. I am part of the symphony orchestra of my school as first violin, directed by Jorge Lopez Marín
Suvia Li is a 16-year-old violinist from San Jose, California. She began playing violin at age 9 and has been a member of Palo Alto Chamber Orchestra (PACO) since 2017. She was selected to solo with PACO this year, playing Lalo's Symphonie Espagnole. Suvia has also won Second Prize in the 2022 San Francisco International Innovative Music Competition and was selected for the Junior Bach Festival in 2021. In addition, she is a serves as a member in the San Jose region of the Back to Bach Project. In her free time, she enjoys doing art, crocheting, and watching TV shows.
Ava Park played the violin from age 6. Since then, she has won numerous national and international awards. She has also been invited to perform at many distinguished halls, including at the Seoul Arts Center and Carnegie Hall.
Ryan started playing violin at the age of five, and has studied with Kurt Sassmannshaus in Ohio and joined the Starling Project at the Cincinnati Conservatory. He has performed at the Schuster Center as concertmaster of the Dayton Youth Philharmonic Orchestra and has since also performed at Carnegie Hall. After moving to LA, he began studying with Joan Kwuon under Colburn Conservatory in 2022. He is now an 11th grader at Harvard-Westlake and teaches music to younger kids frequently.
My name is Atena Buranicz. I was born in 2007 in Wrocław, Poland. I am in the first grade in Karol Szymanowski Secondary School in Wroclaw in the violin class of Mr. Tomasz Stocki. I have received several awards in the following competitions: the 1st prize in the category “Music of the 20th Century” of the “Great Composer Competition”, the second prize in the category “Artist of the Year”, the first prize in the ‘IMKA Music Competition’, the first prize in MEDICI International Music Competition. In the future, I would like to play the violin all around the world.
She was born in İzmir, 2006. She began her violin education between 2014-2016 at Dokuz Eylül University State Conservatory. At 2017, she continued her education with the lecturer Zeynep Simge Acunaz Eytemiz. She trained at the class of Prof. Ildiko Zsuzsanna Moog for two years. She attended the masterclass of Prof. Ildiko Zsuzsanna Moog, Prof. Cihat Aşkın, Prof. Sevil Ulucan Weinstein, Prof. Çiğdem İyicil, Prof. Ahmet Hamdi Zafer, Muhammedjan Turdiev and Anatoliy Bazhenov. She won prizes at International Music Competitions. Currently, she continues her education with the lecturer Zeynep Simge Acunaz Eytemiz as a 10th grade student at Dokuz Eylül University State Conservatory.
I have started violin at 6 years old with my dad as my teacher, who is also the Concertmaster of HCMC Ballet Symphony Orchestra and Opera, and a teacher at HCMC's Conservatory. Recently, Dr.Chuong Vu, Concertmaster of the San Angelo Symphony Orchestra in USA, has taken me in as his student. Right now, I am a year 6 student at HCMC's Conservatory. I have a big passion for performing in front of live crowds and I enjoy every moment being a musician.
Elena Kobayashi, 16, is currently a junior at Henry M. Gunn High School in Palo Alto. She began violin at age 7, studied with Hiroko Suzuki Hagman in Sweden and currently studies violin with Yi Zhou, the principal viola at the San Francisco Ballet Orchestra. She was a first-place winner at Crescendo International Music Competition, earning her performances at Carnegie Hall and second-place winner at San Francisco Innovative International Competition, Junior Violin Division in 2020 season. She has attended the Wells Music Summer School International Strings Week 2018. She was also a member of Golden State Youth Orchestra in 2019-20.
Julianne Ma is a junior at The King’s Academy and has been playing the cello for eight years. She currently studies with Vicky Wang. At the age of twelve, she made her solo debut at Weill Recital Hall in Carnegie Hall, performing the third movement of the Haydn Cello Concerto as a Gold winner in the International Young Artists Competition. In the last few years, Julianne has won numerous prizes from competitions including MTAC VOCE Solo, United States International Music Competition, ENKOR International Music Competition, United States Open Music Competition, KAMSA competition, CAPMT competition, International Young Artists Competition, and Great Composers Competition. She has been invited to perform for Junior Bach Festivals in the last two years, and in 2021 and 2022, she was awarded with Certificate of Merit Panel Master Class by MTAC. Julianne is also part of the San Francisco Symphony Youth orchestra. As an avid chamber musician, she has participated in C'est Bon Chamber Music Academy and was invited to perform at its 10th Anniversary concert. She is a member of the Juventus Piano Trio, which has been coached by Rose Chen and Vicky Wang. Her chamber group has received awards from 2019 and 2020 MTAC VOCE Chamber Music competition and 2019 and 2020 United States Open Music Competition Ensemble competition. In addition to her music studies, Julianne also enjoys reading, writing, and copy editing.
Ocean Xie is a 17 year old from Corinth, TX. He has studied violin under Dr. Chuong Vu since the age of 6. He has been a member of the Greater Dallas Youth Orchestra for 6 years. He is the gold prize winner of the London Young Musician International Competition (2022) and World Classical Music Awards International Competition (2022), and he has won the Outstanding Performer Award in the Texas All-State Solo and Ensemble Contest (2021)
Zhao Junjie, a famous violinist, educator, Professor Tong Weidong, and violinist, Professor Yue Lin. In 2013, he was admitted to the fourth grade of the Affiliated Primary School of the Central Conservatory of Music with excellent results, and in 2016, he was admitted to the Affiliated High School of the Central Conservatory of Music, participated in international and domestic master classes and competitions for many times, and won prizes. 2018 Chief of China Youth Symphony Orchestra
Jimin Koo, 17, is a senior at Cupertino High School. She currently studies with Davis Law at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music Pre-College Division, and serves as Assistant Concertmaster the California Youth Symphony Senior Orchestra and as concertmaster of her school’s Chamber Orchestra. She participated in the 2021 and 2022 California All State Symphony Orchestra. She also performed as a soloist with the Palo Alto Chamber Orchestra in 2016 as a winner of the annual concerto competition, and won awards in the Korea Times Music Competition, KAMSA Competition, AFAF Romantic Music Competition, and Silicon Valley Music Competition.
My name is Ernesto Guevara Cordova. I started studying violin at the age of 8 at the Eduardo Abela elementary school in San Antonio de los Baños Cuba, my first presentation was at the age of 9 at the Lyric Theater in Havana where I played for the first time as a soloist, then I performed at festivals such as the Festival de la Buena Honda Biennale and the Music Arte school festival I am currently a student of the National School of Art (ENA) and I am playing in the charanga orchestra of the school and in the Esteban Salas Baroque Orchestra, together with her I have performed at the Sauto theater in the city of Matanzas and the Casa del Alba in the city of Havana.
Skylar started playing the violin at age 6. She has studied at the Korea National Institute for the Gifted in Arts. She has received the judges' distinction award at the American Protege International Competition, the first prize at the Rudolf Barshai International Compet-ition, and numerous presti-gious awards at many international and national competitions. Recently, she has been named a 2022 National YoungArts Foundation honorable mentions winner. She has performed at several distinguished music halls, such as Carnegie Hall's Weill Recital Hall and the Berlin Philharmonic Chamber Hall. She has performed with the Cheongju Philharmonic Orchestra, the Seoul Academy Ensemble, and the Asan Philharmon-ic Orchestra.
Born in Taiwan, Murphy Chuang has been studying the cello since the age of seven and is currently studying in Massachusetts, USA. Murphy has participated and won in numerous international competitions including First Prize in “2022 Golden Classical Music Awards”; First Prize in “The 9th HKYPAF Hong Kong International Youth Performance Arts Festival” Final Round; Gold Award in "2020 Japan Osaka International Music Competition” Junior Course; Silver Award in “2019 Brilliant Talent Discovery Awards International Music Competition” and was invited to perform in the Gala Concert at The Esplanade Recital Hall, Singapore.
My name is Teresa. I am 20 years old and I attend the Academy of Music in Cracow, Poland. I have made numerous concert tours and, together with other musicians, have executed in Poland and represented my country all over Europe. I performed, among others, at the European Parliament in Brussels, Belgium; at the Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Vienna and several times in the Netherlands, as well as in Germany, Norway and Ukraine. I have been playing the violin for 13 years and music is my greatest passion.
Anna Bodziak was born in December 1999, she is from Poland. She started playing the violin at the age of 7. She graduated from the Secondary Music School in Przemyśl. Currently, she is studying at the G. and K. Bacewicz Academy of Music in Łódź, in the violin class of Dominika Przech, DA. She has taken part in master classes and in chamber and solo competitions. She won 1st place in the 12th edition of the World Open Online Music Competition in Belgrade (2021) and 1st place in the 3rd International Online Instrumental Performance Competiotion in Vienna (2022).
I've been playing the violin since I was four. I graduated from the Royal Danish Academy of Music this year
Wei Lu is a Doctor of Musical Arts candidate and Graduation Assistant at College-Conservatory of Music, University of Cincinnati, where she studies with Kurt Sassmannshaus. She received an Artist Diploma Certification in Violin Performance from the Colburn School, Master of Music Degree in Violin Performance from Juilliard, and a Bachelor of Music Degree in Violin Performance from the Manhattan School of Music, where she received a commencement award for outstanding violinist. Ms. Lu was a top prize winner in major solo music competitions, including the Serge & Olga Koussevitzky Young Artist Awards, New York International Music Competition, and the Schadt String Competition. Her performance experiences include solo with the Starling Chamber Orchestra in Cincinnati, the Shanghai Philharmonic Orchestra and Qingdao Symphony Orchestra in China. She has participated in music festivals such as Tanglewood Music Center, Bowdoin International Music Festival, Music Academy of the West, Kneisel Hall Chamber Music Festival, and the Annual National Arts Centre Summer Music Institute for Young Artists Program in Ottawa. Ms. Lu has performed in such venues as Carnegie Hall, Wall Disney Hall, Alice Tully Hall, and Scandinavia House.
My studies and experiences align well as a cellist starting with my middle school life by attending the ‘Sunhwa art school’ and ‘Sunhwa art high school’ by learning professionally and performing regular various performance. Starting in 2015 autumn, I have started my bachelor's degree program at the ‘Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre' and graduated the Academy in June, 2018 and continued Master program 1st year in 2018 autumn to June 2019. From September 2019, I started studying cello at the Royal Conservatorie Antwerp (Koninklijk Conservatorium Antwerpen) and graduated Master course as cum laude in September, 2021 and graduated Postgtaduate instrumental concert soloist course in June 2022.
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