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< Back Previous Ethan Zhao Next Pianist Gala at Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall June 30, 2025 WATCH VIDEO Ethan Zhao is a fourteen-year-old pianist from Urbana Middle School in Maryland. He began studying piano at the age of seven under Mrs. San-Qing Lu Bennaman and has developed a deep passion for classical music. Ethan has won top prizes in prestigious competitions, including the MSMTA Spring Festival Piano Solo Competition, the Miriam Shields Gottlieb Competition, and the Washington Universal Piano Competition. He has also been recognized in international competitions such as the International Young Artists Piano Competition, the American Protégé International Piano and Strings Competition, and the Thomas F. Hulbert International Piano Competition. Beyond competitions, Ethan has been invited to perform at distinguished venues, including Carnegie Hall, the Bulgarian Embassy, and the Washington International Piano Festival. Passionate about sharing his music, he has spent the past three years performing at local senior centers, bringing joy and connection to his community. Outside of piano, Ethan enjoys swimming, reading, and running.

< Back Previous Jonathan Li Next Flutist Gala at Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall February 17, 2025 WATCH VIDEO Jonathan Li is an emerging flutist who performs as a soloist, chamber musician, and orchestral player. He has served as Principal Flute in the NYSBDA Honor Band, Area All-State Orchestra, and All-County Band, as well as with his school’s wind ensemble. He has given a featured recital at Hatch Recital Hall at the Eastman School of Music, and has performed with the Rochester Philharmonic Youth Orchestra (RPYO). Jonathan is also a recipient of an Eastman School scholarship, recognizing both his artistry and dedication to his craft.

Winners Concerts February 17 and 19 Upcoming Concerts International Artists Concerto Performance Date FEBRUARY 17th & 19th, 2023 Western New York Chamber Orchestra Classics #3 Glen Cortese, Conductor col ORCHESTRA Auditions Winners - soloists, bios and program here Friday, February 17, 2023 7:30 p.m Westminster Presbyterian Church, Buffalo, NY Sunday, February 19, 2023 4:00 p.m King Concert Hall, Fredonia, NY Full Concert Program colORCHESTRA Auditions 2022-23 Play Video All Videos colORCHESTRA Auditions 2022-23 All Categories Play Video Play Video 06:58 Col Orchestra Preview of Winners Concerts Feb 17 and 19 with Western New York Chamber Orchestra International Artist Concerto Concerts Nahar Eliaz, cello, Israel Concerto in A minor, Op. 33 Camille Saint-Saëns 00:13 - III. Tempo primo Timothy Shi, violin, USA Concerto in E minor, Op. 64 Felix Mendelssohn 1:19 - I. Allegro molto appassionato (1809-1847) Julio Reyes, guitar, USA Concerto in D Major, RV 93 Antonio Vivaldi 2:34 - III. Allegro Ke Tang, piano, China Concerto No. 20 in D minor, K. 466 Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart 3:38 - I. Allegro (1756-1791) Ben Batalla, piano, USA Concerto in E minor, Op. 11 Frédéric Chopin 4:49 - II. Romanze – Larghetto (1810-1849) Itay Hazan, clarinet, Israel, France Concerto in F minor, Op. 73 Carl Maria von Weber 6:05 - I. Allegro Moderato (1786-1826) --- Friday, February 17 at 7:30pm Westminster Presbyterian Church Buffalo, NY Concerto in D Major, RV 93 Antonio Vivaldi I. Allegro giusto (1678-1741) II. Largo III. Allegro Julio Reyes, guitar, USA Concerto in E minor, Op. 64 Felix Mendelssohn I. Allegro molto appassionato (1809-1847) Timothy Shi, violin, USA INTERMISSION Concerto in F minor, Op. 73 Carl Maria von Weber I. Allegro Moderato (1786-1826) Itay Hazan, clarinet, Israel, France Concerto in A minor, Op. 33 Camille Saint-Saëns I. Allegro non troppo (1835-1921) II. Allegretto con moto III. Tempo primo Nahar Eliaz, cello, Israel International Artist Concerto Concert Sunday, February 19 at 4:00pm Harry A. King Concert Hall The State University of New York at Fredonia Concerto in D Major, RV 93 Antonio Vivaldi I. Allegro giusto (1678-1741) II. Largo III. Allegro Julio Reyes, guitar, USA Concerto in E minor, Op. 64 Felix Mendelssohn I. Allegro molto appassionato (1809-1847) Timothy Shi, violin, USA Concerto No. 20 in D minor, K. 466 Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart I. Allegro (1756-1791) Ke Tang, piano, China INTERMISSION Concerto in E minor, Op. 11 Frédéric Chopin II. Romanze – Larghetto (1810-1849) Ben Batalla, piano, USA Concerto in A minor, Op. 33 Camille Saint-Saëns I. Allegro non troppo (1835-1921) II. Allegretto con moto III. Tempo primo Nahar Eliaz, cello, Israel These concerts and LIVE Broadcasts are produced by Virtual Concert Halls (VCHS), in collaboration with BTDA, kor/Productions, Progressive Musicians, Sound Espressivo, and Western New York Chamber Orchestra. Special thanks to VCHS Production Team: Fedor Ouspensky, Frane Rusinovic, Christ Au Play Video Play Video 02:12:30 colORCHESTRA International Artists, WNYCO, LIVE Westminster Presbyterian Church This concert is a culminating event in a months-long colORCHESTRA project designed to discover and present Concertos for wide variety of instruments from various periods, performed by international artists of highest caliber. Soloists for this Concert were selected by International Panel of Judges through rigorous live auditioning, out of a pool of applicants from all over the world. This project invites musicians and audience to bridge geographic and other barriers and come together for a truly remarkable musical journey. Friday, February 17, 2023 7:30 pm Westminster Presbyterian Church, Buffalo, NY Western New York Chamber Orchestra, Glen Cortese, conductor. Live commentary by Steve Robinson, a world renown radio producer and host of classical music programs https://virtualconcerthalls.com/steve... Hosted by Anna Ouspenskaya and Chris Au, and brought to you by the VCHS Production Team: Fedor Ouspensky, Frane Rušinović, Chris Au, Igor Zubkovsky, and Ante Božić-Kudrić. https://virtualconcerthalls.com/ Program 19:30 - Concerto in D Major, RV 93 Antonio Vivaldi I. Allegro giusto (1678-1741) 23:33 - II. Largo 29:05 - III. Allegro Julio Reyes, guitar 33:33 - Concerto in E minor, Op. 64 Felix Mendelssohn I. Allegro molto appassionato (1809-1847) Timothy Shi, violin INTERMISSION. 1:10:00 - Concerto in F minor, Op. 73 Carl Maria von Weber I. Allegro Moderato (1786-1826) Itay Hazan, clarinet 1:20:19 - Concerto in A minor, Op. 33 Camille Saint-Saëns I. Allegro non troppo (1835-1921) 1:26:22 - II. Allegretto con moto 1:32:00 - III. Tempo primo Nahar Eliaz, cello We thank everyone who helped make this project possible! colORCHESTRA Staff: James Welch, Progressive Musicians Anna Ouspenskaya, Virtual Concert Halls Johanna Moffitt, /kor/ Productions Gevorg Sargsyan, Brilliant Talent Discovery Awards WNYCO Administrative Staff: Glen Cortese, Artistic Director/Conductor Lisa Layman, Executive Director Julie Newell, Development Director Brent Weber, Operations Manager Bryan Eckenrode, Personnel Manager Brian Walnicki, Librarian Jessica Staiano & Dylan Murphy, Student Interns Julia Williamson, Graphic Design On Site Streaming Engineers: Matt Marco, Garrett Martin Graphic Designers: James Welch, Fedor Ouspensky, Frane Rusinovic, Chris Au Special Thanks: Daniel Waldorf Brend Gottinger Jefferson Westwood Emily Cox Tom Loughlin Matt Marco To learn more about organizers and supporters of colORCHESTRA Project, visit our website, like and subscribe to our channels! events: https://www.progressivemusicians.com https://www.soundespressivocompetition.com https://www.virtualconcerthalls.com https://www.korproductions.org https://www.btdawards.com https://www.wnychamberorchestra.com https://www.wpcbuffalo.org https://www.iclassical-academy.com https://www.historyofmusic.eu https://www.wpta.info https://events.fredonia.edu Play Video Play Video 02:29:46 colORCHESTRA International Artists, WNYCO, LIVE from King Concert Hall This concert is a culminating event in a months-long colORCHESTRA project designed to discover and present Concertos for wide variety of instruments from various periods, performed by international artists of highest caliber. Soloists for this Concert were selected by International Panel of Judges through rigorous live auditioning, out of a pool of applicants from all over the world. This project invites musicians and audience to bridge geographic and other barriers and come together for a truly remarkable musical journey. International Artist Concerto Concert Sunday February 19, 4:00pm Harry A. King Concert Hall The State University of New York at Fredonia Western New York Chamber Orchestra, Glen Cortese, conductor. Live commentary by Steve Robinson, a world renowned radio producer and host of classical music programs https://virtualconcerthalls.com/steve-robinson/ Hosted by Anna Ouspenskaya and Chris Au, and brought to you by the VCHS Production Team: Fedor Ouspensky, Frane Rušinović, Chris Au, Igor Zubkovsky, and Ante Božić-Kudrić. https://virtualconcerthalls.com/ Program: Concerto in D Major, RV 93 Antonio Vivaldi 40:41 - I. Allegro giusto (1678-1741) 45:45 - II. Largo 51:49 - III. Allegro Julio Reyes, guitar Concerto in E minor, Op. 64 Felix Mendelssohn 56:00 - I. Allegro molto appassionato (1809-1847) Timothy Shi, violin Concerto No. 20 in D minor, K. 466 Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart 1:11:39 - I. Allegro (1756-1791) Ke Tang, piano INTERMISSION. Stay tuned for commentary by Steve Robinson and more! Concerto in E minor, Op. 11 Frédéric Chopin 1:45:45 - II. Romanze – Larghetto (1810-1849) Ben Batalla, piano Concerto in A minor, Op. 33 Camille Saint-Saëns 2:00:40 - I. Allegro non troppo (1835-1921) 2:06:50 - II. Allegretto con moto 2:12:30 - III. Tempo primo Nahar Eliaz, cello Stay tuned for closing remarks! We thank everyone who helped make this project possible! colORCHESTRA Staff: James Welch, Progressive Musicians Anna Ouspenskaya, Virtual Concert Halls Johanna Moffitt, /kor/ Productions Gevorg Sargsyan, Brilliant Talent Discovery Awards WNYCO Administrative Staff: Glen Cortese, Artistic Director/Conductor Lisa Layman, Executive Director Julie Newell, Development Director Brent Weber, Operations Manager Bryan Eckenrode, Personnel Manager Brian Walnicki, Librarian Jessica Staiano & Dylan Murphy, Student Interns Julia Williamson, Graphic Design On Site Streaming Engineers: Matt Marco, Garrett Martin Graphic Designers: James Welch, Fedor Ouspensky, Frane Rusinovic, Chris Au Special Thanks: Daniel Waldorf Brend Gottinger Jefferson Westwood Emily Cox Tom Loughlin To learn more about organizers and supporters of colORCHESTRA Project, visit our website, like and subscribe to our channels! events: www.progressivemusicians.com www.soundespressivocompetition.com www.virtualconcerthalls.com www.korproductions.org www.btdawards.com www.wnychamberorchestra.com www.wpcbuffalo.org www.iclassical-academy.com www.historyofmusic.eu www.wpta.info https://events.fredonia.edu/event/western_new_york_chamber_orchestra_230219 See less Play Video Play Video 41:02 colORCHESTRA announcing Winners of the Auditions The colORCHESTRA Open Auditions are presented in Partnership with Brilliant Talent Discovery Awards, Progressive Musicians, Virtual Concert Halls, and /kor/ productions Auditions were held for upcoming Concerto Performance Dates: FEBRUARY 17th & 19th, 2023 Western New York Chamber Orchestra Glen Cortese, Conductor This uniquely-designed audition is open to musicians of all ages who are available for soloist engagements within the 2022-23 and 2023-24 concert seasons. Selected artists will be awarded an appearance opportunity to perform solo with esteemed professional orchestras from around the world. We thank the esteemed International Panel of Judges, for sharing their time and expertise with auditionees, through their constructive supportive comments which they provided live during the Final Round of the Auditions, and through the process of selecting the Winners: Gevorg Sargsyan, conductor, cello Johanna Moffitt, soprano James Welch, piano, conductor Lisa Layman, soprano, Executive Director, WNYCO Orchestra Glen Cortese conductor, Music Director of WNYCO Orchestra Come and join a supportive, inclusive environment that values professionalism, creativity, personal expression, and the joy that comes from making music! This two-tiered audition has no accompanying requirements, is readily accessible by video submissions, and there is no time limit imposed on the selections that competitors choose to present—we want YOU to show us what you feel you do BEST! ~~~~~~~~ Today's LIVE Broadcast is brought to you by hosts Anna Ouspenskaya and Chris Au, and the VCHS Production Team: Fedor Ouspensky, Frane Rušinović and Igor Zubkovsky. Learn more by visiting: https://www.btdawards.com/ https://www.soundespressivocompetition.com/colorchestra-auditions https://www.progressivemusicians.com/ https://www.korproductions.org/ https://virtualconcerthalls.com/ https://www.wnychamberorchestra.com/ Play Video Play Video 02:08:29 colORCHESTRA FINALS, Session 1 Welcome to the colORCHESTRA Open Auditions 2022-23 concert season! Presented in Partnership with Brilliant Talent Discovery Awards, Progressive Musicians, Virtual Concert Halls, and /kor/ productions. Today musicians from around the world take central stage for the Final Round of LIVE competing for an opportunity to perform in the upcoming Concerto performances with Western New York Chamber Orchestra on FEBRUARY 17th & 19th, 2023, Glen Cortese, Conductor and Music Director Today's Judges will be providing on-air live comments to each auditionee right after they perform: Lisa Layman, soprano, Executive Director, WNYCO Orchestra James Welch, piano Johanna Moffitt, soprano ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Today's performers and program: 12:30 - Katie Shih Koh & Eric Shih Koh (USA) Mozart - Concerto No. 10 in E-flat Major, K. 365 for 2 Pianos (III. Rondo: Allegro) 25:02 - Tiffany Tsui (USA), accompanied by Yvonne Lau Joseph Bologne de Saint-George - Violin Concerto in G Major, Op.2 No.1 (I. Allegro) 36:19 - Timothy Shi (USA) Mendelssohn - Violin Concerto in E minor, Op. 64 (I. Allegro molto appassionato) 54:42 - Lifan Deng (China), accompanied by Teressa Kang Ravel - Don Quichotte à Dulcinée I. Chanson Romanesque II. Chanson épique 59:22 - III. Chanson à boire 1:27:48 - Julio Reyes (USA) Vivaldi - Guitar Concerto in D Major I. Allegro 1:30:56 - II. Largo 1:36:12 - III. Allegro 1:45:26 - Sarah Lowenstein (USA) Henri Casadesus - Concerto in C minor for Viola in the style of J.C. Bach I. Allegro molto ma maestoso 1:48:59 - II. Adagio molto espressivo 1:55:36 - III. Allegro molto energico Today's LIVE Broadcast is brought to you by hosts Anna Ouspenskaya and Chris Au, and the VCHS Production Team: Fedor Ouspensky, Frane Rušinović and Igor Zubkovsky. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ This uniquely-designed audition is open to musicians of all ages who are available for soloist engagements within the 2022-23 and 2023-24 concert seasons. Selected artists will be awarded an appearance opportunity to perform solo with esteemed professional orchestras from around the world. This two-tiered audition has no accompanying requirements, is readily accessible by video submissions, and there is no time limit imposed on the selections that competitors choose to present—we want YOU to show us what you feel you do BEST. We invite audience members to comment and support today's artists and producers of the program! Please sign up to our channel and share the link with your community, let's together give more people an opportunity to be enriched by classical music! Learn more by visiting https://www.soundespressivocompetition.com/colorchestra-auditions https://www.korproductions.org/ https://www.progressivemusicians.com/2nd-tier-auditions https://www.btdawards.com/ Play Video Play Video 05:04:52 colORCHESTRA FINALS, Session 2 Welcome to the colORCHESTRA Open Auditions 2022-23 concert season! Presented in Partnership with Brilliant Talent Discovery Awards, Progressive Musicians, Virtual Concert Halls, and /kor/ productions. Today musicians from around the world take central stage for the Final Round of LIVE competing for an opportunity to perform in the upcoming Concerto performances with Western New York Chamber Orchestra on FEBRUARY 17th & 19th, 2023, Glen Cortese, Conductor and Music Director. Today's Judges will be providing on-air live comments to each auditionee right after they perform: Gevorg Sargsyan, conductor, cello Johanna Moffitt, soprano James Welch, piano Lisa Layman, soprano, Executive Director, WNYCO Orchestra ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Today's performers and program: 22:00 - Pablo Menéndez (Spain) (accompanied by Soledad Ramirez) Joaquín Rodrigo - Concierto de Aranjuez I. Allegro con spirito 29:00 - II. Adagio 41:10 - III. Allegro gentile 54:38 - Ke Tang (China) (accompanied by Peizhang Wu) Mozart - Piano Concerto No. 20 in D minor, K. 466 I. Allegro II. Romanze III. Rondo, Allegro assai 1:39:27 - Kyle Cho (USA) Handel - Oboe Concerto No. 3 in G minor, HWV 287 I. Grave II. Allegro 1:44:12 - III. Sarabande 1:46:17 - IV. Allegro 1:59:35 - Louisa Marie Cordes (Germany) (accompanied by Anette Kröger) Bach - Violin Concerto No.1 in A minor, BWV 1041 I. Allegro moderato 2:03:40 - II. Andante 2:11:10 - III. Allegro assai 2:24:00 - Nahar Eliaz (Israel) Saint-Saëns - Cello Concerto in A minor, Op. 33 (accompanied by Tal Haim Samnon) 2:55:24 - Kailey Suh (USA) Mendelssohn - Violin Concerto in E minor, Op. 64 (I. Allegro molto appassionato) 3:19:23 - Itay Hazan (Israel) Weber - Clarinet Concerto No.1 in F minor, Op. 73 (I. Allegro) (accompanied by Anat Paul Hazan) 3:40:50 - Elizabeth Cohen (USA) (accompanied by Dan Foster) Puccini - “Un bel di vedremo”, from Madama Butterfly 3:45:50 - Verdi - “Tacea la notte placida”, from Il Trovatore 4:07:50 - Calliope Smith (USA) Vivaldi - Winter, from The Four Seasons I. Allegro non molto II. Largo III. Allegro 4:22:04 - Lemuel D'Anzi (Italy) Beethoven - Piano Concerto No. 4, Op. 58 I. Allegro moderato II. Andante con moto III. Rondo (Vivace) ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Today's LIVE Broadcast is brought to you by hosts Anna Ouspenskaya and Chris Au, and the VCHS Production Team: Fedor Ouspensky, Frane Rušinović and Igor Zubkovsky. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ This uniquely-designed audition is open to musicians of all ages who are available for soloist engagements within the 2022-23 and 2023-24 concert seasons. Selected artists will be awarded an appearance opportunity to perform solo with esteemed professional orchestras from around the world. This two-tiered audition has no accompanying requirements, is readily accessible by video submissions, and there is no time limit imposed on the selections that competitors choose to present—we want YOU to show us what you feel you do BEST. We invite audience members to comment and support today's artists and producers of the program! Please sign up to our channel and share the link with your community, let's together give more people an opportunity to be enriched by classical music! Learn more by visiting https://www.soundespressivocompetition.com/colorchestra-auditions https://www.korproductions.org/ https://www.progressivemusicians.com/2nd-tier-auditions https://www.btdawards.com/ Play Video Play Video 03:22:31 colORCHESTRA FINALS, Session 3 Welcome to the colORCHESTRA Open Auditions 2022-23 concert season! Presented in Partnership with Brilliant Talent Discovery Awards, Progressive Musicians, Virtual Concert Halls, and /kor/ productions. Today musicians from around the world take central stage for the Final Round of LIVE competing for an opportunity to perform in the upcoming Concerto performances with Western New York Chamber Orchestra on FEBRUARY 17th & 19th, 2023, Glen Cortese, Conductor and Music Director. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Today's Judges will be providing on-air live comments to each auditiounee right after they perform: Gevorg Sargsyan, conductor, cello Johanna Moffitt, soprano James Welch, piano Lisa Layman, soprano, Executive Director, WNYCO Orchestra ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Today's performers and program: 11:20 - Ria Kang (USA) Mozart - Violin Concerto No.3 in G Major, K.216 (I. Allegro) (accompanied by Minyoung Kang) 24:55 - Mark Richman (USA) Mozart - Piano Concerto No. 21 in C Major, K. 467 I. Allegro maestoso 38:22 - II. Andante 45:30 - III. Allegro vivace assai (accompanied by Dmitry Rachmanov) 1:05:30 - Sandra Godwin (India) Bizet - “Comme autre fois dans la nuit sombre”, from Les Pêcheurs de perles (accompanied by Susan Dantoni) 1:24:13 - Susan Dantoni (USA) Bach - Keyboard Concerto in D minor, BWV 1052 (I. Allegro) 1:41:31 - Xavier Flory (USA) Verdi - “Ah, la paterna mano”, from Macbeth 1:45:03 - Wagner - “Wintersturme”, from Die Walküre 2:13:31 - Rae Pung (Australia) Chopin - Piano Concerto No. 1 in E minor, Op. 11 (I. Allegro maestoso) 2:23:15 - Johnston Lai (USA) Mendelssohn - Violin Concerto in E minor, Op. 64 (I. Allegro molto appassionato) 2:56:20 - Ben Batalla (USA) Chopin - Piano Concerto No. 1 in E minor, Op. 11 (II. Romanze – Larghetto) Accompanied by Ray Garcia (violin), Brett Osburn (viola), Jen Hwo (cello) ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Today's LIVE Broadcast is brought to you by hosts Anna Ouspenskaya and Chris Au, and the VCHS Production Team: Fedor Ouspensky, Frane Rušinović and Igor Zubkovsky. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ This uniquely-designed audition is open to musicians of all ages who are available for soloist engagements within the 2022-23 and 2023-24 concert seasons. Selected artists will be awarded an appearance opportunity to perform solo with esteemed professional orchestras from around the world. This two-tiered audition has no accompanying requirements, is readily accessible by video submissions, and there is no time limit imposed on the selections that competitors choose to present—we want YOU to show us what you feel you do BEST. We invite audience members to comment and support today's artists and producers of the program! Please sign up to our channel and share the link with your community, let's together give more people an opportunity to be enriched by classical music! Learn more by visiting https://www.soundespressivocompetition.com/colorchestra-auditions https://www.korproductions.org/ https://www.progressivemusicians.com/2nd-tier-auditions https://www.btdawards.com/ Play Video Play Video 01:16:15 colORCHESTRA Auditions FINALS live! Session 4 Welcome to the colORCHESTRA Open Auditions 2022-23 concert season! Presented in Partnership with Brilliant Talent Discovery Awards, Progressive Musicians, Virtual Concert Halls, and /kor/ productions. Today musicians from around the world take central stage for the Final Round of LIVE competing for an opportunity to perform in the upcoming Concerto performances with Western New York Chamber Orchestra on FEBRUARY 17th & 19th, 2023, Glen Cortese, Conductor and Music Director. Today's Judges will be providing on-air live comments to each auditionee right after they perform: Gevorg Sargsyan, conductor, cello Johanna Moffitt, soprano James Welch, piano Lisa Layman, soprano, Executive Director, WNYCO Orchestra ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Today's performers and program: 14:44 - Christina Ebersohl (USA) Haydn - Concerto No.1 in C Major I. Moderato 23:15 - II. Adagio 31:45 - III. Allegro molto 50:23 - Doron Hazan (Israel/France) Glazunov - Saxophone Concerto, Op. 109 I. Allegro moderato II. Andante sostenuto III. Allegro ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Today's LIVE Broadcast is brought to you by hosts Anna Ouspenskaya and Chris Au, and the VCHS Production Team: Fedor Ouspensky, Frane Rušinović and Igor Zubkovsky. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ This uniquely-designed audition is open to musicians of all ages who are available for soloist engagements within the 2022-23 and 2023-24 concert seasons. Selected artists will be awarded an appearance opportunity to perform solo with esteemed professional orchestras from around the world. This two-tiered audition has no accompanying requirements, is readily accessible by video submissions, and there is no time limit imposed on the selections that competitors choose to present—we want YOU to show us what you feel you do BEST. We invite audience members to comment and support today's artists and producers of the program! Please sign up to our channel and share the link with your community, let's together give more people an opportunity to be enriched by classical music! Learn more by visiting https://www.soundespressivocompetition.com/colorchestra-auditions https://www.korproductions.org/ https://www.progressivemusicians.com/2nd-tier-auditions https://www.btdawards.com/ col ORCHESTRA Auditions Meet the Finalists To play, press and hold the enter key. To stop, release the enter key. Sound Espressivo is thrilled to announce a new undertaking for the 2022-23 season: the col ORCHESTRA Open Auditions Presented in Partnership with Brilliant Talent Discovery Awards , Progressive Musicians , Virtual Concert Halls , and /kor/ productions This uniquely-designed audition is open to musicians of all ages who are available for soloist engagements within the 2022-23 and 2023-24 concert seasons. Selected artists will be awarded an appearance opportunity to perform solo with esteemed professional orchestras from around the world. This two-tiered audition has no accompanying requirements, is readily accessible by video submissions, and there is no time limit imposed on the selections that competitors choose to present—we want YOU to show us what you feel you do BEST! Audition for Upcoming Concerto Performance Dates: FEBRUARY 17th & 19th, 2023 Western New York Chamber Orchestra Glen Cortese, Conductor Come and join a supportive, inclusive environment that values professionalism, creativity, personal expression, and the joy that comes from making music! Regulations Repertory List Register Upcoming dates Audition for Upcoming Concerto Performance Dates: FEBRUARY 17th & 19th, 2023 Western New York Chamber Orchestra Classics #3 Glen Cortese, Conductor BEETHOVEN: Coriolan Overture col ORCHESTRA Auditions Winners - soloists and repertory TBA Friday, February 17, 2023 7:30 p.m Westminster Presbyterian Church, Buffalo, NY Saturday, February 18, 2023 7:30 p.m King Concert Hall, Fredonia, NY Register to audition NOW ColORCHESTRA Finalsts

< Back Previous Jazzelle Ren Next Gala at Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall November 24, 2024 WATCH VIDEO Jazzelle Ren is a junior at Miramonte High School in Orinda, CA. She has excelled in Certificate of Merit and ASTACAP examinations, performed with her school orchestra and the East Bay Chamber Orchestra, and tutors elementary-level violin students. A second-place winner in the North California Young Talent Competition, Jazzelle enjoys traveling—recently visiting Europe and Southeast Asia—and is an avid skier and snowboarder, currently pursuing her Level 1 PSIA ski instructor certification.

< Back Previous Livia Teodorescu-Ciocanea Next Gala at Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall July 1, 2024 WATCH VIDEO Livia Teodorescu-Ciocanea is a Romanian composer and pianist, Professor PhD in composition, forms, analysis, and stylistics at the National University of Music Bucharest. Her music, exploring spectralism, neo-impressionism, and postmodernism, is known for its powerful lyricism and dramatic impact. Between 2017 and 2021, she was Adjunct Associate Professor (Research) at Monash University, Australia, and currently serves as an Affiliate Professor. In 2022, she was elected to the European Academy of Sciences and Arts in Salzburg, and since 2021 she is recognized as a Price artist. Teodorescu studied composition with Myriam Marbe, Anatol Vieru, and Margaret Lucy Wilkins. She is a member of the Union of Composers and Musicologists in Romania, and her works have been performed internationally in the USA, Australia, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, and throughout Europe. Leading Romanian orchestras, including the George Enescu Philharmonic and the National Radio Orchestra, have performed her compositions. Her major works include the opera The Lady with the Dog (2015, rev. 2021), the ballet Le Rouge et le Noir (2000), Archimedes Symphony (2011, rev. 2017), Rite for Enchanting the Air – Flute(s) Concerto (1998), and Mysterium Tremendum – Cantata for mezzo-soprano and orchestra (2016). Her works have been recorded on Toccata Classics, Move Records, and Electrecord, with Le Rouge et le Noir receiving top recognition from Fanfare Magazine and Archimedes Symphony ranked in the Top 10 Best Classical Music of 2023 by The Absolute Sound. An accomplished pianist, she has performed as soloist and accompanist across Europe, premiering Romanian performances of Messiaen’s Visions de l’Amen and the piano part of the Turangalîla Symphony. She has also performed her own piano concertos with the George Enescu Philharmonic. As a musicologist, she has authored three books and numerous scholarly articles, contributing to journals such as Contemporary Music Review, Tempo, and Perspectives of New Music. Teodorescu’s work spans composition, performance, and scholarship, making her a significant voice in contemporary classical music internationally.

< Back Previous Vintine Anrich Next Gala at Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall November 24, 2024 WATCH VIDEO Vintine Anrich, 17, is a violinist from Mountain House, CA, and a longtime student of James Greening-Valenzuela. She has earned numerous competition prizes, including First Prize at the Charleston International Music Competition and the North California Young Talents Competition, Second Prize at the San Francisco International Innovative Music Competition and Pelican International Music Competition, and Third Prize at the DVC/HNU String Competition in California. A member of the Oakland Symphony Youth Orchestra, this is her second appearance as a soloist at the Carnegie Laureate Gala.

< Back Previous Emily Greene Next Vocalist Gala at Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall June 28, 2025 WATCH VIDEO Emily Greene has nurtured a passion for music, languages, and the performing arts from a very young age. She is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Arts at Bowdoin College, where she studies classical voice under Christina Astrachan. Beyond her college studies, she continues vocal training in both classical and musical theater styles with Mary Johnston Letellier, having previously studied with Samantha Loomis and Paul Stickney. A versatile musician, Emily also plays violin, guitar, and piano—her first instrument, which she began studying at age five with Portland Symphony Orchestra violinist Deirdre Oehrtmann. Emily’s love for opera began in 2016, when she joined the children’s chorus for Opera Maine’s production of Carmen, blending her musical and linguistic passions. The following year, she contributed as a librettist to the original opera Girl in Six Beats, a collaboration between Opera Maine, The Telling Room, and the University of Southern Maine. She later became a member, and eventually coordinator, of Opera Maine Teens. Her performance credits span opera, musical theater, choir, orchestra, and dance. Recent stage roles include Mabel in The Pirates of Penzance, Antonio in Twelfth Night, Emma Carew in Jekyll and Hyde, and Gabriella Montez in High School Musical. She has performed Susanna in scenes from The Marriage of Figaro with Portland Conservatory of Music’s Opera Summer Scenes program, appeared as a guest vocalist for PCM’s Piano Palooza (2022), and sung both as soloist and ensemble member with the Southern Maine Choral Music Academy. She has also performed in recitals for Opera Maine Teens, district and all-state festivals for both violin and voice, serving as concertmaster of the District II Instrumental Festival and achieving the highest vocal audition score at the District II Vocal Festival (2023). In addition to her artistic accomplishments, Emily has excelled academically. In high school, she was inducted into the Tri-M Music Honor Society, French Honor Society, Latin Honor Society, and the National Honor Society, earning recognition as an AP Scholar with Distinction. She received medals for the National Latin Exam (since 2020) and the Grand Concours (since 2013), as well as the B2 DELF Certification in French (2018). Emily performed at the 2024 Laureate Gala and is thrilled to be returning, continuing her journey as a dynamic young artist with a bright future in both classical and theatrical performance.

< Back Previous Ayako Yonetani Next Violinist Gala at Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall November 26, 2024 WATCH VIDEO Ayako Yonetani is an internationally acclaimed violinist, praised for her expressive artistry and distinguished career as both performer and educator. Born in Kobe, Japan, she began violin studies at the age of five with the renowned Saburo Sumi. After winning the Japan National Competition at age nine, she rapidly emerged among Japan’s leading young violinists, appearing as soloist with major orchestras including the NHK Symphony, New Japan Philharmonic, and Gunma Symphony, before continuing her musical journey in the United States. Dr. Yonetani holds Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees from the Juilliard School, where she studied with Hyo Kang and the legendary Dorothy DeLay. From 1989, she served as DeLay’s teaching assistant at the Juilliard Pre-College Division and at the Aspen Music Festival and School, contributing to the artistic development of the next generation of violinists. Since relocating to the U.S. in 1982, Dr. Yonetani has maintained a vibrant international performance career. She has presented solo recitals and appeared with orchestras across major American cities, including New York, San Francisco, Chicago, Minneapolis, Atlanta, and Orlando. Her global engagements have taken her to prestigious stages such as Amsterdam’s Concertgebouw, Salzburg’s Mozarteum, Vienna’s Musikverein, Tokyo’s Kioi Hall, Dresden’s Semperoper, Dome Umenia in Slovakia, and Astana City Hall in Kazakhstan. Notably, she performed for the President of Panama and the Japanese Ambassador to Panama in commemoration of Japan’s 2011 earthquake and tsunami. As a recording artist and collaborator, Dr. Yonetani has released four solo concerto CDs, including works by Tchaikovsky, Mendelssohn, Beethoven, Bruch, and Brahms. Her recording of the Tchaikovsky and Mendelssohn concertos with the Slovak State Philharmonic was named “CD of the Month” by WMFE 90.7 FM. She has also recorded six ensemble albums with Kioi Sinfonietta Tokyo, and her Japanese translation of Teaching Genius: Dorothy DeLay and the Making of a Musician (Ongaku no Tomo, 2001) has reached multiple printings. Widely admired for her interpretation of Bach’s Chaconne, Dr. Yonetani has performed the work annually for the Henry Crown Fellows at the Aspen Institute since 1998, where she was named an Honorary Henry Crown Fellow in 2006. She was also the first violinist selected as an official artist for the Florida State Touring Program (2006–2017). Dr. Yonetani is Professor of Violin and Viola at the University of Central Florida, Director of the UCF Graduate String Quartet Program, and a longtime member of Japan’s premier chamber ensemble, the Kioi Hall Chamber Orchestra (formerly Kioi Sinfonietta Tokyo). Her upcoming season includes concerto appearances with the Slovak State Philharmonic and the Uzhhorod Philharmonic Orchestra (Ukraine), chamber performances, quartet concerts, and solo recitals in Japan.

< Back Raffaele Livio Ponti Conductor Learn More Videos About "Internationally recognized Italian Conductor, Raffaele Livio Ponti is one of the most exciting, and popular conductors of his generation." An artist of Dynamic Personality, Charismatic Performances, and Superb Musicianship, known for his powerful musical interpretations, rich and unique quality of sound, and breath of colors that he inspires, and draws from every orchestra he conducts. Making his mark as a model for today’s conductors, Raffaele Ponti is recognized for his commitment to creative artistry, innovative programming, and to audience and community engagement. https://www.priceattractions.com/raffaele-ponti-conductor Raffaele Livio Ponti is the Music Director of Paducah Symphony Orchestra. Maestro Ponti maintains an active worldwide conducting schedule with the Lviv National Philharmonic of Ukraine, Sofia Symphony of Bulgaria, and multiple return engagements with the orchestras of Roma, Pescara, Siena, Arezzo, Pistoia, Lucca, Pisa, Firenze, Grosseto, Venezia, Padova, Pienza, Treviso, Spello, Milano, Perugia, Massa, Terni, Bologna, Ferrara, Ripatransone, Pesaro, Civitavecchia, San Gimignano, Genoa, Sinalunga, Cortona, Tocco da Casauria, Montepulciano, Montacatini Terme, Bagno Vignoni, and Prato. In the United States the Buffalo Philharmonic, Elgin Symphony, Rochester Philharmonic, Austin Symphony, Youngstown Symphony, Paducah Symphony, Billings Symphony, Binghamton Philharmonic, Charlotte Symphony, Orchestra of the Southern Finger Lakes, Utica Symphony, and Schenectady Symphony. Winner of numerous awards including winner of the Mario Gusella International Conductors Competition in Pescara, Italy; Italian Musician of the Year, and the prestigious Bernard Adelstein Prize from the Cleveland Institute of Music. He carries on the teachings and philosophies of his mentor and teacher, Giuseppe Sinopoli, and is an inspiring musician, expert teacher, and speaker who enjoys inspiring musicians, and audiences of all ages. He is a popular conducting teacher, who leads conducting seminars in Italy, Canada, and the United States. Especially recognized for his interpretations of the core repertoire, Raffaele Ponti has also collaborated closely with many extraordinary living composers including Kenneth Fuchs, Roberto Sierra, and Jennifer Higdon. In recent seasons he has collaborated with world class artists David Kim, Ilya Kaler, William Wolfram, Terrance Wilson, Glenn Dicterow. Franklin Cohen, Joseph Alessi, Fabio Bidini, Eugenia Zukerman, Antonio Pompa-Baldi, Jeffrey Biegel, Stewart Goodyear, Juana Zayas, Timothy McAllister, Joan Kwuon, Serena Huang, Roman Rabinovich, Sabrina-Vivian Hopcker, Elena Urioste, Michael Ludwig, David Halen, Philippe Quint, Jeffrey Multer, all led to rave reviews. Maestro Ponti is equally in demand as an opera conductor. In 1998 he was appointed Music Director and Principal Conductor of the Italia Konzert Opera Internationale where he tours Italy annually with triumph performances of Tosca, Il Trovatore, Nabucco, Madama Butterfly, L’Elisir d’amore, Carmen, Aida, La Boheme, and Rigoletto. His Italian opera tours include the Sofia Symphony Orchestra, Varna State Opera, and Italia Konzert Opera Internationale. Among the international opera stars collaborated with are Paola Romano, Vittorio Grigolo, Maurizio Graziani, Stefano Algieri, Mariana Paunova, Silvia dalla Benetta, Ettore Nova, George Petean, Claudia Marci, Salvador Carbo, Tatiana Lisnic, Carlos Almaguer, Patrizia Cigna, Michele Sburlati, Galina Kalinina, Mina Tasca, Stanislas Arraez, Alessandro Busi, Mauro Augustini, Rubens Pelizzari, Davide Pastretti, and Ambra Vespasiani. Ponti’s effective technique, and enthusiastic conducting style is from his professional performance experiences with Lorin Maazel, Sir Colin Davis, David Zinman, Yoel Levi, and Eric Leinsdorf. Before becoming a conductor, he played with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, beginning at the age of seventeen, and the Cleveland Orchestra, at nineteen. Other ensembles include the Cleveland Opera, Erie Philharmonic, Eastern Brass Quintet, Metropolitan Brass Quintet, and the Casals Music Festival. Reviews "Raffaele Livio Ponti brings an exhilarating energy level to center stage. It’s an electrifying swagger - empowering and enabling him to pull music from light to darkness and back again.” The Courier News (Chicago) “A bold yet sensitive conductor, Ponti highlights Brahms’ interplay between the instruments, expertly balancing the sections – emphasizing the delightful winds and fine trombones while holding in check ESO’s formidable string section – to illustrate the multiple layers that makes this work so sublime.” Daily Herald (Chicago) “Ponti is regarded as a rising star, someone gaining international acclaim and attention.” The Courier News (Chicago) “The music was exciting, and the performance was flawless. Ponti showed us how passionate he is about the music, and the orchestra demonstrated how committed they are to excellence.” Billings Gazette “…it’s clear he has a tremendous zest for music, an exuberance recalling both the roar and rush of a roller coaster ride.” The Courier News (Chicago) “Fans worldwide say that his passion shows.” The Courier News (Chicago) “And, of course, the biggest collaborator of all was the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Raffaele Ponti. The orchestra’s musicians were the ultimate accompaniment, accentuating each song’s moods, nuances, and sounds. The sound was superb, as was the playing, but never overwhelmed the piano in the center of the stage…” Buffalo News “Eyes hold an entire ensemble. A moment passes. Then, through a series of wordless impulses, an exceptional conductor, Ponti changes the human chemistry in an orchestra and audience.” The Courier News (Chicago) “Ponti interprets the music beautifully. He brings the most modest of details out. He sees the picture he wants them to paint. They respond to the environment he creates. They are a beautifully rehearsed orchestra. It was a moving performance. So clear, so wonderful. One of the best I have seen so far. In less than five years, Ponti will be sought by orchestras all over the country.” Charlotte Sun (Florida) “…guest conductor Raffaele Ponti, whose passionate approach to music has captured international attention.” The Courier News (Chicago) “Heads bobbed and smiles broke out both on and off the stage Saturday night as the Billings Symphony Orchestra performed under the baton of Raffaele Ponti.” Billings Gazette “The sound was big, and the orchestra played with great heart. By its end, musicians’ brows were wet, and some members of the audience were teetering on the edge of their seats.” Billings Gazette “Led by last minute replacement conductor Raffaele Ponti of the Paducah Symphony Orchestra, the BPO gave an expressive performance of the achingly beautiful score (Swan Lake).” Buffalo News “We have a great orchestra, a great hall, a great public, and a great Maestro.” Charlotte Sun (Florida) Previous Next

< Back Previous Catherine Louise Geach Next Violinist Gala at Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall February 20, 2025 WATCH VIDEO Born in England, Catherine Louise Geach began studying violin and classical ballet at the age of four, giving her first public performance a year later. She studied with Bernard Blay and Caroline Lamont before entering the conservatory. As a soloist with chamber ensembles and symphony orchestras, she gave her first masterclass at the age of five with Professor David Takeno (Guildhall School of Music), followed by studies from ages eight to fifteen with Professor Felix Andrievsky (Yehudi Menuhin School and Royal College of Music). At sixteen, she performed Elgar’s Violin Concerto as soloist at London’s Purcell Room. At fifteen, Catherine won a scholarship to the Royal Academy of Music in London, where she studied violin with Professors Maurice Hasson and Xue Wei, and participated in masterclasses with Professor Zakhar Bron (Moscow Conservatory). She later performed the Sibelius Violin Concerto and also pursued studies in voice and piano, perfecting her singing technique in Italy as a light coloratura soprano specializing in Early Music. In 1990, at the age of eighteen, Catherine traveled to Cambodia during the civil war to compile a report on human rights violations by the Khmer Rouge. Entitled The Aid and War Report, her documentation—recognized with the Bernard Brett Peace Bequest (London)—was instrumental in demonstrating to the international community that the Khmer Rouge should not be seated at the United Nations. This report is now archived at the Cambodian Documentation Center for the Cambodian Genocide. At the request of the Cambodian Ministry of Culture, Catherine also gave concerts and taught violin at the Royal University of Fine Arts in Phnom Penh, following the loss of nearly 90% of Cambodia’s artists during the genocide. After graduating from the Royal Academy of Music in 1991, she returned to Cambodia to continue teaching, having previously studied Khmer at the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London. In 1994, amid the ongoing civil war, Catherine founded and built the Kampot Traditional Music School for Orphaned and Disabled Children (Khmer Cultural Development Institute) in Kampot Province, with the mission of reviving and preserving traditional Cambodian music and culture while caring for vulnerable children. As its founder and long-time director, she continues to support the school’s cultural and humanitarian programs entirely as a volunteer. From 1996 to 1998, she established a Music, Dance, and Art Therapy Program at Mesa Selimović Primary School in Sarajevo, Bosnia, for children suffering from PTSD in the aftermath of war. The program became a permanent part of the school curriculum, sustained by local Bosnian educators. Catherine has translated and edited a book on Cambodian musical instruments for UNESCO and written extensively on the Cambodian War and Genocide in publications such as The Tablet. Her school received the UNESCO World Decade of Cultural Development Award (Paris, 1995), and she herself was honored with the Raoul Wallenberg Humanitarian Award (New York, 1999). She has lectured for UNESCO (Stockholm) and at Somerville College, Oxford University, on The Child’s Right to Culture and The Healing Power of Music. As a concert violinist, soprano, and recording artist, Catherine has performed internationally, including for the late Pope John Paul II at St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City. She also performed as a Cambodian Apsara dancer at the Théâtre Bastille and the Opéra de Paris while on tour with her Cambodian students. Her stage credits include both singing and choreography for productions such as The Fairy Queen in Amatrice, Italy. Her solo album, A Wish for Love for the World (BAM Records, Switzerland, 2021), features Bach’s Sonatas and Partitas for Solo Violin and sacred vocal works by St. Hildegard of Bingen. She has also appeared as violinist and soprano soloist on The Grey II–III (2021), Love Conquers All (2022), The MASS, and Embracing Sorrow (2022–23) by American composer Stephen L. Melillo. Their collaboration on Embracing Sorrow reflects a profound exploration of war, human suffering, and transcendence, inspired by Catherine’s volunteer work with the Ukrainian Diaspora in Rome. Catherine’s humanitarian and artistic work has been featured in BBC and ABC Australia documentaries, and on BBC Radio, Voice of America, and South African Radio. Her story has been the subject of major press features, including the Sunday Telegraph Magazine (1995) and Reader’s Digest’s Music of Hope (1999), translated into sixteen languages and distributed in eleven million copies. She has also given numerous interviews in Khmer for Cambodian radio.

< Back Previous Amelia Ly Next Pianist Gala at Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall November 26, 2024 WATCH VIDEO Amelia Ly, 11, began her piano journey at the age of four in Peoria, Illinois. She studied with renowned pedagogues, including Prof. Anna Nogaj, former dean of the Bradley University Piano Prep School and teacher of Krzysztof Jablonski, and Prof. Aneta Youngblood, a former director at Caterpillar with decades of European-based music education experience. Since 2022, Amelia has been a pupil of distinguished pianist Dr. Craig Nies, long-time professor at Vanderbilt’s Blair School of Music, whose musical heritage traces back to Mieczysław Horszowski and the traditions of Beethoven, Czerny, and Chopin. Amelia recently concluded her annual solo recital at Blair School of Music in May 2024. Featured by ABC News and NPR, Amelia has won numerous international piano competitions and performed at prestigious venues including the Musikverein in Vienna, the Royal Albert Hall in London, the Philharmonie Amphithéâtre in Paris, and Beethoven House in Bonn. She has also appeared as a guest artist with the Peoria Symphony Orchestra. Since her early years, Amelia has shared her music with the community, performing at retirement homes, annual Christmas concerts, Ignite Peoria, OSF Hospital, Peoria Women’s Club, and Dream Center fundraising events. In 2021, she presented her own ticketed solo concert at the Betty Jayne Performance Center. In March 2023, Amelia performed with Dr. Nies at the Rachmaninoff 150th Birthday Celebration Concert, part of Vanderbilt University’s Sesquicentennial festivities. Outside of piano, Amelia enjoys reading, dancing, drawing, swimming, singing, and playing the ukulele and guitar. She is an active member of her school choir and participates in her public school’s gifted program. In 2021, she was accepted into Vanderbilt University’s Program for Talented Youth (SAVVY), reflecting her dedication to both music and academic excellence.

< Back Previous The Kaboff Cello School, Bow Lightlys Next Gala at Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall April 4, 2024 WATCH VIDEO The Kaboff Cello School – Bow Lightlys String Ensemble The Bow Lightlys have been featured guest artists at the World Cello Congress III (2000), where they participated in an internationally broadcast cello ensemble workshop with the legendary cellist Yo-Yo Ma. This collaboration led to a cello choir concert at the Sixth American Cello Congress (2001), coinciding with Mr. Kaboff’s appearance as a guest lecturer. The ensemble has also performed at the Tennessee Cello Workshop (2014) and has been featured in live radio broadcasts in Washington, D.C. Their performances include concerts at the Embassy of France, the Almas Shriners Temple, and numerous local religious and cultural centers. Committed to community engagement, the Bow Lightlys frequently perform at charity events for the American Diabetes Association and bring music to senior living communities, sharing their artistry with audiences who might otherwise be unable to attend live concerts.