Born in New York City, Mia Hong was 10 years old when she started violin studies with Dr Ann Setzer. At age 13 she was accepted into the Juilliard Precollege program. She has performed solo work at Kaufman Hall, and performed chamber and orchestral performance at various venues within Lincoln Center. Mia attended the Meadowmount School of Music during the Summers of 2024 and 2025. Mia is a laureate of several violin Competitions including 1st Prize winner in the Prima Volta Competition 2025, Third place winner International Grande Music competition 2023, and Gold medalist in the Grand Metropolitan Music competition 2023. When not playing the violin she enjoys monochrome drawing having had her work “Gemini” displayed at the Bruce Museum in Greenwich CT as a Finalist in the 2025 Icreate juried High school Art Competition iCreate 2025: Annual Juried Exhibition of High School Talent - The Bruce Museum

Lora Wu is a 15-year-old violinist from New York City. She studies with Dr. Laura Mount at Mannes School of Music Preparatory Pre College and has been playing the violin since age seven. Lora is a two-time winner of the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center Youth Ensembles Program, as well as a finalist of the Anselmo V International Youth Competition. She serves as Principal 2nd in the New York Youth Symphony Crescendo Orchestra, of which she has been a member since its inaugural year, and serves as Assistant Concertmaster in the Mannes School of Music Philharmonic Orchestra. Lora has also attended numerous summer music festivals, including Interlochen Arts Camp and Music at Port Milford, where she served as concertmaster. She has participated in the New York Youth Symphony chamber music program and has participated in her school's chamber music, chamber strings, and strings programs for four years. She is the founder of Tuttissimo Arts, Inc., a musical performance non-profit, which hosts concerts for high school musicians at nursing homes. Lora is currently a sophomore at Hunter College High School and enjoys reading, drawing, and writing poetry in her free time.

Adrian is a 10th grader at the Horace Mann School in New York. He has been playing the violin for ten years. He studies with renowned pedagogue Elizabeth Faidley of the Manhattan School of Music. He has won first place at various international competitions and performed at Carnegie Hall’s Weill Recital Hall, Merkin Concert Hall, Dimenna Center’s Benzaquen Hall, Bruno Walter Auditorium at Lincoln Center as well as abroad in Vienna, Salzburg and Budapest. He has performed at masterclasses with Ray Chen, Pekka Kuusisto, and the Chooi Brothers. He has also performed with American Chamber Orchestra, Sempre Musick Orchestra as a soloist. Adrian is a member of the Horace Mann School Upper Division Orchestra and has experience with playing chamber music. In addition to his passion for the violin, Adrian enjoys playing golf, tennis and ultimate frisbee.

Katie Moon began playing the violin at age 7 and attends the Los Angeles County High School for the Arts. She was selected for the Southern California School Band & Orchestra Association’s All-Southern Middle School Orchestra for two consecutive years. In 2024 and 2025, she performed as a soloist with the Los Angeles Youth Philharmonic at the Colburn School. She was featured in the Mu Phi Epsilon Showcase Concert in 2023. In 2023, she won 1st place in the Grand Prize Virtuoso International Music Competition and performed at the Palau de la Música Catalana in Barcelona. In 2022, she was awarded in the American Protégé International Competition and performed at Carnegie Hall. Katie has received awards from the Glory International Music Competition, Great Composer Series, Satori Summer Music Festival, Southwestern Youth Music Festival, and United Stars Music Competition. She has been a member of the Colburn Orchestra since 2021 and performed at Walt Disney Concert Hall with the Los Angeles Youth Philharmonic in 2023, 2024, and 2025. She has also performed in chamber groups at the Colburn Music School and with Junior Chamber Music.

Guo Ru studies violin under Prof. Peter Zazofsky at New England Conservatory Prep in Boston, Massachusetts. Before coming to the US, Guo was a scholarship recipient at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music’s Rising Stars program and received the prestigious Licentiate Diploma of Music Australia (LMusA). He has won numerous First Prizes in international music competitions in violin and composition, such as the American Protégé Music Competition and the European Music Competition. He has performed as a soloist with the Willoughby Symphony Orchestra and has been invited to perform at some of the world's major concert halls, including Carnegie Hall and the Royal Albert Hall. Guo is a member of the Boston Philharmonic Youth Orchestra. In 2025, he served as concertmaster in the Northeastern District Orchestra and the Principal Violin in the all-state senior orchestra in Massachusetts. He has toured the United States and Europe, where he played in diverse venues like the Postojna Caves, Croatian National Theatre, and Teatro Pacini. Besides the violin, Guo also enjoys conducting and composing music.

Kristin Wells has appeared in a variety of ensemble performances at her middle school and has played as First Violin in the New Shanghai Orchestra (2 years), the Greater Connecticut Youth Symphony (2 years) and the Norwalk Youth Symphony (in Norwalk, CT)- 1 year). She attends Indian Mountain School in Lakeville, Connecticut.

My name is Taewon Kim, and I am 11 years old. I started learning the violin when I was in 2nd grade. This is my first time applying a music competition. I actually love playing soccer the most, but I also enjoy music. It was not easy to prepare for this piece while keeping up with my sports practices. The song I chose was quite difficult for me, and I had to practice every day to get better. Even though I’m not perfect yet, I feel proud because I can see how much I have improved through this experience. Practicing this piece taught me patience and helped me become more confident. I hope to keep practicing steadily and someday join an orchestra so I can play music with other people.

Naran-Erdene Erdenebulgan is a first-grade student at the Mongolian State Conservatory in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. She began her musical journey with a deep passion for the violin and has already shown remarkable dedication and talent at a young age of 5. In May 2025, Naran-Erdene performed at the Students’ Concert at the Conservatory, showcasing her growing skills as a young musician. She has also participated in several international competitions, including the Brahms International Music Competition, where she competed in both the regional round in Mongolia and the Asia Finals held in Hong Kong in August 2025. Earlier, in December 2024, she took part in the Crescendo International Music Competition, her first major competition, which inspired her to pursue violin performance more seriously. This year, Naran-Erdene began attending a professional K–12 music school in Ulaanbaatar, where she continues her studies with the goal of becoming a professional violinist in the future.

Stephanie has been playing violin since age 6. She truly loves the violin and loves being on stage performing.

I started piano as a child and began viola before middle school. I’m now in my second year at Juilliard Pre-College. Music enriches my life and I see it as a way to connect with others and contribute to society.

Violist Ian Bang studies at the Manhattan School of Music Precollege and performs in the New York Youth Symphony Chamber program. He is dedicated to sharing music through community outreach.

Arya Pelletier, a junior at Greenwich Academy, has been immersed in music since the age of five. Starting on the violin for ten years, she made the switch to the viola at age fifteen. Her deep passion for music extends beyond performance into her extensive volunteer work. She serves on the youth advisory board of Concerts for Compassion, a non-profit organization that uses music to foster empathy and cultural integration by performing for displaced people and local communities, is the president of her school’s Chamber Club, and acts as a private instructor for Project Music, a non-profit dedicated to providing instrumental learning opportunities for underrepresented children. This past summer, Arya attended Point CounterPoint, where her skill earned her an invitation to play in an honors chamber group. She has been invited to play with the Youth Orchestra of St. Luke’s and has been a member of the Norwalk Youth Symphony’s Principal Orchestra for over two years, with whom she will participate in a performance tour in France in the Summer of 2026. Her most recent solo repertoire includes the Handel-Casadesus Concerto for Viola in B Minor and the Stamitz Concerto.

Hannah Phillippy is a classical cellist from Maryland who began her musical journey as a young pianist and choralist before falling in love with the cello at 9 years old. She has since been studying classical cello under acclaimed cellist Dr. Tanya Anisimova and has been a member of the Maryland Classic Youth Orchestras (MCYO) since 2020. In 2024, Hannah was the youngest cellist invited to attend the Douro Strings Academy in Vila Real, Portugal, and in 2025, she was selected to the Maryland All-State Junior Orchestra and attended the International Music Institute at Loyola University New Orleans. She has won numerous competitions both as a soloist and member of ensembles at the State, National, and International levels, and has performed three winner's concerts at Carnegie Hall. Her selected awards include First Prize in the Chamber Music Young Artists Group at the American Virtuoso International Music Competition in 2024 and First Prize in the Charleston International Spring Music Competition in 2024, as a member of the Spark Quartet; First Prize in the Solo Junior Artist Group at the Concert Artists International Competition in 2025; and First Prize in Charleston International Summer Music Competition in 2025 as a soloist.

Kevin began studying piano at the age of five and cello at the age of eight, and currently studies with Ms. Seojin Yang. He is a member of the New Jersey Symphony Youth Orchestra, ARCO Youth Orchestra, and the Bergen County Academies Orchestra. He was selected to perform with both the New Jersey Regional and All-State Orchestras 2022-2023. Kevin has earned recognition in multiple competitions and has performed at Carnegie Hall as a winner. Passionate about sharing music beyond the stage, he regularly offers his talents through community service, performing at schools, senior centers, and local events. He values music not only as a discipline but also as a meaningful way to inspire and connect with others.

Marcus was born in New York. He is a thirteen-year-old violinist. Marcus enjoys playing violin. His musical journey started at age four and a half with his violin teacher Ms. Jungwon Yoon. He is currently a student at the Manhattan School of Music Precollege Program Division. Marcus has been selected to earn full scholarships from the Chloe Kiffer Precollege Scholarship and the Kate Bamberger Memorial Violin Scholarship at MSM. He has participated and received awards in local and international competition since 2023. Some of the competitions are the Camerata Artists International Competition Concerto (2023 and 2024), Prima Volta Music Competition (2023), the 16th Edition of the Arthur Grumiaux International Violin Competition Category II 2024 (Brussel, Belgium), the Piccolo Violino Magico International Competition 2024 (San Vito al Tagliamento, Italy), the Manhattan School of Music Precollege Division Symphony Strings Concerto Competition (2024). He has performed concert at the Carnegie Hall as the 1st prize award winner. He also participated in the master class with Shlomo Mintz and Yvonne Lam.

Caitlin Wang, a 15-year-old pianist and violinist from San Diego, is an award-winning musician with numerous international accolades. She began piano at four and violin at five, winning Most Promising Talent at eight and 1st place at the Burgos International Music Festival at nine. She has since earned top prizes at the Young Soloist International Music Competition, Music International Grand Prix, American Protege, London Young Musician, and Clara Schumann International Competition. In 2025, Caitlin won 1st place in the MTAC Concerto Competition and has performed as a soloist at Teatro Alfieri in Italy. She has participated in prestigious international festivals in Italy and Spain and earned full scholarships to the SDYS Symphony Orchestra and Interlochen Arts Camp. Beyond competitions, Caitlin is passionate about using music for a cause. She has raised $15,000 for UCSD’s Autism Center of Excellence through charity concerts and frequently performs at community events. A dedicated and well-rounded artist, she also enjoys tennis, swimming, and ballet. With her exceptional talent and commitment, Caitlin continues to captivate audiences and establish herself as a rising star in the classical music world.

I started playing the violin and piano at age four. I have accomplished Certificate of Merit Level 10 Piano in 2023. For the violin, I won numerous awards over the years including the most recent Young Soloist International Competition 2024 (2nd place), The Opus Music Competition 2024 (3rd place in First Round State Competition) moving onto the Nationals next month, SYMF (1st in 2024 and 3rd in 2021 both for Baroque Category, 3rd in 2024 for Qualified Category, 3rd in 2020 Open Category), Charleston 19th Century Music Competition (1st in both 2024 and 2022), Altair Int’l Music Competition (1st place Mozart Category 2022, 3rd place Baroque Category 2021), Prima Volta Music Competition (1st place 2021), Golden Classical Music Awards Int’l Competition (1st place – winner’s recital at Carnegie Hall in Dec 2022), and Grand Prize in Young Musician Competition in 2018. In school, I immersed myself in every musical opportunity available, from chamber orchestra to drumline as a keyboardist. I have also participated in the school spring musicals playing synth for Mean Girls in 2023, Shrek in 2024, and currently practicing for the musical SpongeBob coming up next month. I am currently a member of Los Angeles Youth Philharmonic Orchestra, playing 1st violin.

Sehyun Lee is a member of Tenafly High School's orchestra, and currently attends the Manhattan School of Music. She is currently winning prizes in various competitions and doing volunteer work.

Lily Yang is a spirited nine-year-old violinist who began her musical journey at the age of five. Now in her fourth year of studying the violin, Lily has developed a strong passion for music and a dedication to honing her craft. She currently plays as a Violin I member of the California Youth Symphony’s Intermezzo Strings Ensemble, where she enjoys collaborating with fellow young musicians and exploring a variety of orchestral works. Lily’s enthusiasm for the violin shines through both in rehearsals and on stage. In addition to her ensemble commitments, she loves practicing at home, sharing mini-performances with her family, and continually challenging herself to improve her technique.

First Prize at the Van Bach International Music Competition Temple University’s Center for Gifted Young Musicians music prep program since September 2024

Nicole Choo, a junior at Paramus High School, is the first chair violist in her school and ARCO ensembles. NJMEA Region Orchestra member 2021–2025. Her quartet won 2nd in the 2024 ASTA Competition.

Ian Bang is an accomplished violist and violinist with extensive experience in ensembles and competitions. He is a member of the New York Youth Symphony Chamber, where he play in a string quartet performing works such as Dvořák’s American and Mendelssohn’s String Quartet No. 2. He was also the Principal Viola of the Camerata Youth Orchestra, regularly performing at nursing homes and senior centers. Additionally, he leads the Bergen County Young Musicians, preparing solo pieces and creating activity workbooks for dementia patients. He has earned top placements in prestigious competitions, including First Place in the VIVO International Music Competition (2024) and the Manhattan International Music Competition (2021). Other accolades include Second Place in the Prima Volta Music Competition (2023) and American Protege (2023), as well as Third Place in the New York Virtuoso International Competition (2021). His musical education includes training at the Echo Music School and Festival, where he receives private lessons in viola and violin, and his current studies at the Manhattan School of Music Symphony Orchestra.

Daniel Yoo, a 7th grader, has been a cellist since the age of 5 and he is currently studying with Gloria dePasquale. He is a highly accomplished cellist with a remarkable competition record and extensive orchestral experience. He has earned numerous first-place competition. His performance records are equally impressive, with appearances at Weill Hall and Zankel Hall at Carnegie Hall, and Merkin Hall at Kaufman Music Center. He attended Heifetz International Music Institute in the summer program of last year with a Merit Scholarship.

Jacob Chang is a high school junior who lives in New Jersey, USA. He enjoys playing the cello at his school and in his community.

Advanced cello performer, orchestra section leader, and competition winner. Performed at Carnegie Hall and significant venues and was accepted into AMIS, KIMEA, and CT Northern State Festival.

Youran was born into a musically gifted family. His father is the Assistant Principal Double Bass of the China Philharmonic Orchestra. His grandfather was the Principal Cello of the Zhengzhou Song and Dance Theater, Henan Province. Youran showed strong interest and passion in music and drama when he was young. He started learning piano when he was five years old, playing cello at age of seven and double bass at eleven with his father. Youran loves to do charity works and proudly became a member of the Chinese Children’s Charity Rescue Foundation. He also involved into its performing art and performed several shows for charity fundraising. In 2023, Youran became an international student at Benowa State School. While he is trying his hardest to learn English and adapting to the unfamiliar environment, also he enjoys being a valuable cello player of Benowa Senior String Ensemble. Currently Youran plays grade 7/8 level on cello and weekly lessons with Mrs. Belinda Manwaring.

Youran was born into a musically gifted family. His father is the Assistant Principal Double Bass of the China Philharmonic Orchestra. His grandfather was the Principal Cello of the Zhengzhou Song and Dance Theater, Henan Province. Youran showed strong interest and passion in music and drama when he was young. He started learning piano when he was five years old, playing cello at age of seven and double bass at eleven with his father. Youran loves to do charity works and proudly became a member of the Chinese Children’s Charity Rescue Foundation. He also involved into its performing art and performed several shows for charity fundraising. In 2023, Youran became an international student at Benowa State School. While he is trying his hardest to learn English and adapting to the unfamiliar environment, also he enjoys being a valuable cello player of Benowa Senior String Ensemble. Currently Youran plays grade 7/8 level on cello and weekly lessons with Mrs. Belinda Manwaring.

Youran was born into a musically gifted family. His father is the Assistant Principal Double Bass of the China Philharmonic Orchestra. His grandfather was the Principal Cello of the Zhengzhou Song and Dance Theater, Henan Province. Youran showed strong interest and passion in music and drama when he was young. He started learning piano when he was five years old, playing cello at age of seven and double bass at eleven with his father. Youran loves to do charity works and proudly became a member of the Chinese Children’s Charity Rescue Foundation. He also involved into its performing art and performed several shows for charity fundraising. In 2023, Youran became an international student at Benowa State School. While he is trying his hardest to learn English and adapting to the unfamiliar environment, also he enjoys being a valuable cello player of Benowa Senior String Ensemble. Currently Youran plays grade 7/8 level on cello and weekly lessons with Mrs. Belinda Manwaring.

Zhuoxin April Li, a young performer, started learning the piano at the age of five and was introduced to the Chinese Guqin at seven. Studied Zhe School Guqin for eight years under the renowned Chinese Guqin master Mr. Junyue Xu. For a better interpretation of the Chinese Guqin, the young performer follows Jianzi notation while playing. Music Teacher is HENGCHENG ZHOU.