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Learn more < Back Laureates Gala Sponsorship Laureate Gala will sponsor a limited number of Awards to soloists, piano, instrumental and vocal, for a performance at the Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall. These Awards are provided by progressive Musicians and Virtual Concert Halls. The Award includes a fully sponsored performance on the Gala program of up to 5 minutes, plus: A Carnegie Hall Archival DIGITAL VIDEO of performance (see Regulations for acceptable uses as per by Carnegie Hall rules) Medals; Certificates Full color brochure (digital and printed) Complimentary tickets Winners will be interviewed by Steve Robinson, a world renowned producer of classical music radio shows Photos This Award is Sponsored by Progressive Musicians and Virtual Concert Halls Our team is constantly working to develop new outlets that provide musicians opportunities to learn, improve, and celebrate milestones. Currently we are hosting online competitions that provide each contestant with the expert feedback from professional musicians, and prizes ranging from our world-wide online showcases, to performing opportunities in some of the most prestigious performance venues around the world. We believe that it is important to recognize all of the instruction and support that went into the training and development of musicians. We also recognize the various rates of progress. Progress does not always happen at a steady rate. Progress may be quicker for some, and slower for others. Yet still progress may vary from person to person. As long as one is making progress, there will be milestones to celebrate. View More Visit Laureate Gala Page Previous Next

Moreno < Back Ayla Moreno Jan 30 at 10:00am EST (10 and under/11-14) Waltz in A-flat major, Op.42 (Chopin, Frédéric) Ayla started playing the piano and the violin at the age of 3, and is currently studying piano, with Dr. Svetlana Arakelova and violin, with Dr. Laura Tagawa. She has been invited to perform both on the violin and piano at various venues, including the Tucson Annual Japanese Festival, the Tucson Folk Festival, and more. Her first appearance with an orchestra as a soloist was when she was 6 years old, playing with the Tucson Civic Orchestra performing the Berkovich piano concerto, and then, she also performed the Mozart piano concerto with the Southern Arizona Symphony Orchestra. In the summer of 2019, she performed the Mozart Piano Concerto with Tucson Repertory Orchestra during their tour in Japan. Ayla won her first 1st prize at the Merit Scholarship competition by the Tucson Music Teachers Association when she was 5. Since then, she has won many top prizes at local and international competitions such as 1st place at the Young Artists Competition by the Civic Orchestra, 1st place at the Youth Concerto Competition by South Arizona Symphony Orchestra, 1st place with the judge’s distinction at American Protégé international competition and 2nd place at the Bay Area piano competition. During 2020-2021, she earned 2nd place at the Arizona young artist competition, 2nd place at the Paderewski international piano concerto, gold medal at the London young musician competition, and 2nd place at the Krystian Tkaczewski international piano competition in Poland for piano. She earned 2nd place at the Arizona String teachers association and 1st place and the Most exceptional performer award at the Charleston international music competition for violin. Ayla attended the Interlochen Arts camp, Colburn Piano Seminar, Philadelphia International Music Festival, and HeifetzPEG. Other than music, she enjoys dancing (she just performed in the Southwest Nutcracker), painting, Math and Science. Previous Next

< Back Previous Adrian Zhang Next Cellist Gala at Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall April 30, 2025 WATCH VIDEO Born in the vibrant city of Vancouver, Canada, Adrian Zhang is poised to captivate audiences with his extraordinary musical talent. At just eight years old, he has already distinguished himself as a rising star in the world of classical music. Adrian began studying the cello at the age of four, quickly demonstrating a level of dedication and artistry far beyond his years. Gifted with perfect pitch, he possesses a remarkable ability to recognize and reproduce musical notes with effortless precision. His passion and expressiveness have already earned him numerous accolades—including first prizes and a prestigious platinum award—and at only five years old, Adrian was invited to perform at Carnegie Hall. His performances are celebrated for their emotional depth and technical brilliance, leaving audiences inspired and enthralled. While Adrian shines as a soloist, he also finds great joy in performing chamber music and collaborating with professional musicians in orchestral settings. A true multi-instrumentalist, Adrian is also a virtuoso pianist and drummer, showcasing a versatility that sets him apart from his peers. His seamless transition between instruments reflects both his musical intuition and his boundless curiosity for sound. Beyond music, Adrian is equally devoted to his academic and athletic pursuits. A bright and inquisitive third-grader, he excels in Math and Technology, demonstrating a sharp intellect and a passion for learning. Outside the classroom and concert hall, Adrian loves playing baseball, where his agility, teamwork, and competitive spirit shine through. With his rare combination of talent, discipline, and joy, Adrian Zhang embodies the promise of a remarkable young artist whose journey has only just begun.

< Back Previous Momoro Ono Next Pianist Gala at Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall June 30, 2025 WATCH VIDEO Pianist Momoro Ono has given numerous concerts and masterclasses, including University of British Columbia, Emory Chamber Music Society of Atlanta Concert Series, Xavier University Music Series in Cincinnati, Cincinnati Conservatory of Music Bearcat Piano Festival, Seoul National University Tuesday Concerts, University of Hawaiʻi at Manoa, and Kennedy Center concert hall. He has appeared as soloist with the Baltimore and Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestras-the latter performance being broadcast on NPR. In 1980, he won First Prize at Juilliard’s Gina Bachauer Memorial Competition and Silver Medal at the Three Rivers International Piano Competition within two weeks. Soon after, he performed on WQXR in New York during Young Artists Showcase. He holds a Doctorate and Artist Diploma from the Peabody Institute, where he studied with Leon Fleisher. He also holds his Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees from the Juilliard School as a student of Adele Marcus. Chamber music studies include coaching from members of the Guarneri Quartet with his violinist wife, Heejoung Kim. He also teaches piano at Creighton University and the Omaha Conservatory.

2 < Back SEC Virtuosity Sound Espressivo invites Musicians of All Ages to celebrate Live Music Performance by participating in the Application Deadline May 16, 2024 at 3:59:00 AM Apply Regulations Virtuosity Competition 2023-24 What is Virtuosity? Are you a Virtuoso Artist? Check out the Artistic Category Description Hint: One can be a Virtuoso at any age and stage of learning the art of music performance! Turn to the greatest artists for inspiration, many spoke out about Virtuosity: The virtuoso is not a mason who, chisel in hand, faithfully and conscientiously whittles stone after the design of an architect. He is not a passive tool reproducing feeling and thought and adding nothing of himself. For the virtuoso, musical works are tragic and moving materializations of emotions; he is called upon to make them speak, weep, sing and sigh, to recreate them in accordance with his own consciousness. - Franz Liszt Competition Rounds: All Instrumentalists, Ensembles, and Voice performers can apply Preliminary Round - by video submission. Selected musicians will be invited to the Final Round Final Round - Live performance on a world-wide Internet TV Broadcast. Judges from around the world provide on-air commentary immediately after each performance. Finalists meet the Judges and can ask questions. Musicians' supporters can write comments which will be shown onscreen Family and friends can watch and be part of your LIVE performance from anywhere in the world. Finalists Technical preparation session with VCHS Broadcast Directors and Engineers, in preparation for the broadcast. More about Broadcast technology for musicians here Age Groups 10 and under 11-14 15-18 Adult (19 and older) Repertory All periods and genres accepted For Preliminary Round - submit a video of one virtuoso piece Final Round - perform up to 10 min of virtoso compositions Important DATES May 15, 2024- Application Deadline June, 2024 - Final Round of the Competition Laureates and Winners . Cash Awards One in each Age Group: Adult (19 and older) - $300 15-18 - $200 11-14 - $100 10 and under - $50 Performance Awards One Laureate will receive a fully sponsored performance opportunity at Carnegie Laureate Gala (see details and dates here ) More performance, scholarships, recordings, web-profile, interviews, educational and partner-sponsored Awards here Career Development and Educational Awards here Teachers receive recognition on Sound Espressivo website and in Virtual Concert Halls Broadcast programs, certificates honoring Teachers' contribution. Fees Application Fee - $50 Final Round (if selected only) - $100 Complete Regulations here Previous Next

< Back Application Deadline September 30, 2025 Previous Apply Next Fond du Lac Philharmonique (FdLPe) Selected Soloists will be presented at the colORCHESTRA concert series with the Fond du Lac Philharmonique (FdLPe) Chamber Orchestra, under the baton of Maestro Mishan Han. CONCERT DATES: March-April 2025 Concertos, Arias Meet the Orchestra Fond du Lac Philharmonique (FdLPe) With its official home at the iconic former St. Patrick church of Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, USA, Fond du Lac Philharmonique is a versatile professional chamber orchestra with a mission to bring the highest quality chamber music of standard classical repertoire to the community and beyond. It was founded on the new concept of “Quality-Community-Education” that formally engages professional musicians for community outreach and education. Serving as standalone professional quality core, it proudly incorporates additional professional or community musicians to serve specific events as a full symphony orchestra under the direction of Maestro Han, violinist and founding conductor. Meet the Conductor Previous Next Mishan Han The Los Angeles Times music review hailed him as ‘prodigeous’ and ‘overpowering’. The Vienna International Music Competition awarded him with ‘Urkunde mit Auszeichnung.’ As a violinist and a conductor, Mishan has touched audiences and inspired fellow musicians with enthusiasm, passion, and lofty spirits throughout his professional career. A graduate of prestigious Central Conservatory of Music, Beijing, where he studied violin and conducting and earned a reputation of genuine, idealistic and inspirational. His violin studies with Sito Huacheng, a successor of Joseph Joachim’s teaching legacy, deeply influenced his authentic and original style. He was one of the very few to win a complete scholarship to study chamber music performance with the Juilliard String Quartet, which brought him to the United States. He has been an active soloist and chamber music player alongside his career with professional orchestras. He was the founder and soloist of Regenlied Duo and had concert engagements throughout North America including Glenn Gould Studio Concert Series of Canadian Broadcast Corporation (CBC). His studies in conducting, including lessons with maestro Seiji Ozawa, was the foundation to his leadership. As with many greatest conductors who ultimately rose from within the orchestra itself, Mishan represents a rich experience of orchestra performance including symphony, ballet, and opera. He connects instinctively to the subtle nuances of orchestra and brings out their best in style and brilliance. He has been a frequent coach and guest conductor for youth orchestras, community orchestras and chamber ensembles. He is currently the Music Director of Fond du Lac Philharmonique. Mishan has also devoted much of his time in intellectual pursuits such as political science in educational policies and philosophy in cultural studies. He has also been an advocate for the teachings of Konstantin Stanislavski, an actor’s philosophy for performance that was introduced to him early in his life by his soprano and violinist parents. It has profoundly shaped his understanding of performing arts and rooted firmly in his artistic and musical psyche. Learn More Application and Audition Process Application form is DUE by the posted DEADLINES throughout the season. Upload video of any piece (with or without accompaniment). YouTube or Google Drive links are accepted Application fee $75 Selected musicians will be invited to audition live on a public Internet TV Broadcast* and will receive a preparation tech session with VCHS Broadcast Engineers. You will meet the Judges during Live Audition. Live Auditions are held virtually. Live Auditions are judged in real time. Judges provide participants with immediate on-air feedback. During the live audition participants will be able to speak with Judges. • The judges’ decisions are final and may not be contested. • To participate in the live online auditions, each musician must prepare required technical setup Live Audition Fee - $250 *Fee includes the Technology Preparation session with A/V and Broadcast engineers You will be notified about your acceptance into the colORCHESTRA program Fees Application and video pre-screening - $75 Live Audition - $250 Performance - NO FEE ($0) Selected soloists are expected to cover their own travel expenses. Upon request colORCHESTRA provides supporting documentation for selected soloists' visa applications. Selected soloists may request press releases, letters of recommendation, confirmations of their participation in the concert, in support of the soloist's grants applications. Apply Concertos, Arias Fond du Lac Philharmonique (FdLPe) CONCERT DATES: MARCH-APRIL, 2025 With its official home at the iconic former St. Patrick church of Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, USA, Fond du Lac Philharmonique is a versatile professional chamber orchestra with a mission to bring the highest quality chamber music of standard classical repertoire to the community and beyond. It was founded on the new concept of “Quality-Community-Education” that formally engages professional musicians for community outreach and education. Serving as standalone professional quality core, it proudly incorporates additional professional or community musicians to serve specific events as a full symphony orchestra under the direction of Maestro Han, violinist and founding conductor. Orchestra's Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/FdLPe Mishan Han, Music Director The Los Angeles Times music review hailed him as ‘prodigeous’ and ‘overpowering’. The Vienna International Music Competition awarded him with ‘Urkunde mit Auszeichnung.’ As a violinist and a conductor, Mishan has touched audiences and inspired fellow musicians with enthusiasm, passion, and lofty spirits throughout his professional career. A graduate of prestigious Central Conservatory of Music, Beijing, where he studied violin and conducting and earned a reputation of genuine, idealistic and inspirational. His violin studies with Sito Huacheng, a successor of Joseph Joachim’s teaching legacy, deeply influenced his authentic and original style. He was one of the very few to win a complete scholarship to study chamber music performance with the Juilliard String Quartet, which brought him to the United States. He has been an active soloist and chamber music player alongside his career with professional orchestras. He was the founder and soloist of Regenlied Duo and had concert engagements throughout North America including Glenn Gould Studio Concert Series of Canadian Broadcast Corporation (CBC). His studies in conducting, including lessons with maestro Seiji Ozawa, was the foundation to his leadership. As with many greatest conductors who ultimately rose from within the orchestra itself, Mishan represents a rich experience of orchestra performance including symphony, ballet, and opera. He connects instinctively to the subtle nuances of orchestra and brings out their best in style and brilliance. He has been a frequent coach and guest conductor for youth orchestras, community orchestras and chamber ensembles. He is currently the Music Director of Fond du Lac Philharmonique. Mishan has also devoted much of his time in intellectual pursuits such as political science in educational policies and philosophy in cultural studies. He has also been an advocate for the teachings of Konstantin Stanislavski, an actor’s philosophy for performance that was introduced to him early in his life by his soprano and violinist parents. It has profoundly shaped his understanding of performing arts and rooted firmly in his artistic and musical psyche. Maestro Mishan Han LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mishan-han-maestro-violin Orchestra Venue The official home of FdLPe is at the former St. Patrick's Church 41 E. Follett Street Fond Du Lac, WI 54935 St. Patrick's Parish was established in 1855, but a church wasn't completed until 1867. The Congregation of Sisters of St. Agnes taught classes in the church in 1871, but it wasn't until 1938 when a proper school was built with a large matching donation from Henry and Julia Boyle. In 1970, the school merged with St. Louis and classes were held at St. Patrick's until 1995. The church was designated as a local landmark in 1990 and Masses were held there until 2007. In 1990, the church was designated a local landmark and in 2000, Fond du Lac area parishes merged into one Catholic community — Holy Family. St. Patrick’s Church operated until 2007 when the new Holy Family Church was constructed. Recently the building has been used as a dance studio and concert space. https://theclio.com/entry/97818

< Back David Wroe Conductor Learn More Videos About Maestro Wroe is Music Director of the New Jersey Festival Orchestra, Principal Conductor at Phoenicia International Festival of the Voice in New York, and a frequent conductor of L’Orchestre Régional de Normandie in France. From 2000-2014 he was a regular conductor with New York City Opera, leading and assisting in numerous productions. Orchestras conducted include the Boston Symphony Orchestra, Saint Louis Symphony, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, L’Orchestre National de Lille, Opera de Toulon, New Jersey Symphony L’Ensemble de Paris, Symphony Nova Scotia, Kansas City Symphony, Santa Fe Symphony, New York City Ballet, Neue Brandenberg Symphony, L’Orchestra Lamoureux with cellist Mstislav Rostropovitch, Opera de Toulon, Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra, Das Loh-Orchester Sondershausen, Philharmonische Orchester der Stadt Heidelberg, Delaware, Harrisburg, Huntsville, De Moines Symphony, and numerous tours of Western Austria with Vorarlberg Symphony and at the Bregenz Frühlings Festival. Maestro Wroe is a preferred conductor in Asia, having directed the Taiwan National Symphony, Pusan Philharmonic, Shenzhen, Macau, Hangzhou, Nanjing, Wuhan, Zhejiang, Guiyang, and The Taipei and Taijung Symphony Orchestras. He was Music Director of Music on the Mountain: Garrett Lakes Arts Summer Festival in Maryland from 2000 – 2006, and Music Director and Founder of the Kansas City Camerata from 1990-1996. Maestro Wroe was Seiji Ozawa’s Assistant Conductor at the Boston Symphony Orchestra, leading the Orchestra in Tanglewood (with Joshua Bell) in Boston’s Symphony Hall (with Horacio Gutierrez), collaborating with Jesse Norman’s recording of “Phraeda”, and Itzhak Perlman’s recording of Benstein’s Serenade, and touring Europe with the Boston Symphony Orchestra Chamber Players. 2007 marked Maestro Wroe’s recording debut with L’Orchestre National de Lille on the TransArt label with pianist Bruno Fontaine, and numerous broadcast recordings, through Austrian Broadcasting Authority (ORF), with the Vorarlberg Symphony. In addition to his residency at New York City Opera, Maestro Wroe was Resident Conductor at Oper der Stadt Heidelberg (1998-2002), Principal Conductor at Opera Delaware (2000 – 2005), and directed the summer ‘Opera Under the Stars’ series at the 7000 seater Garden State Arts Center in NJ. From 2005-10 he was Music Director of Opera Teatro Gratticielo in NY, opened for the newly formed Fresno International Grand Opera, and served as Judge with Anna Moffo for the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions. Maestro Wroe, through the NJ Festival Orchestra, has diverse experience in cross-over genres, having collaborated with Kristin Chenoweth, Mannheim Steamrollers, Celtic Women, The 3 Irish Tenors, Natalie Merchant, Joan Rivers, Don Rickles, Bob Newhart, Jackie Evancho and Celtic Thunder, and a return guest at Ocean City Pops Orchestra, to name but a few. Maestro Wroe devotes considerable time to aspiring musicians. In 2014 he held a residency at Brown University Symphony Orchestra (Rhode Island) as its Interim Music Director, was Principal Conductor at N.Y. University Symphony Orchestra (2008-2011), and Director of Orchestras at Montclair State University, NJ (2000-2005). He led the Boston Symphony Orchestra Youth Concerts, the Taipei Symphony Orchestra Summer Youth Festival, given master-classes at New England Conservatory, Harvard University, Rutgers University and University of Alabama. He has served as Judge for the Music Assistance Fund administered by the League of American Orchestras, and was the Chairman of the Jury of the New Jersey MTA State Concerto Competition. Awards are numerous, including the Seiji Ozawa Fellowship at Tanglewood, a citation in United States Congress for community commitment, and finalist in the 1st Bernstein International Conducting Competition. He attended Lancing College, has a BMus from Manchester University (England), a MM from Northwestern (Chicago), and studied with Gustav Meier and Victor Yamposky. Previous Next

Duo Miriam Davis & Michael Bulychev-Okser < Back Duo Miriam Davis & Michael Bulychev-Okser Previous Next Duo Miriam Davis & Michael Bulychev-Okser

< Back Application Deadline September 30, 2025 Previous Apply Next Lviv National Philharmonic Orchestra of Ukraine Selected Soloists will be presented at the colORCHESTRA concert with the Lviv National Philharmonic Orchestra of Ukraine in Lviv, Ukraine, at the Lviv Philharmonic Hall under the baton of Maestro Theodore Kuchar. Concert dates available in the 2025-26 and 2026-27 concert seasons. Rehearsals with Lviv National Philharmonic Orchestra of Ukraine will be scheduled 3 days prior to concert date. The concerts will be Broadcast Live by Virtual Concert Halls on various public channels on YouTube, Vimeo, Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Twitch, among other platforms Video of the concert will stay available for playbacks on the channels. Soloists will participate in interviews for media and other activities associated with the event. Important dates: Application deadlines and Live Auditions Dates - see announcements on the website. Broadcast on video and social platforms. Meet the Judges and the Conductors. Streaming technology seminar in preparation for Live Audition - prior to performing LIVE. No age restrictions. Any complete Concerto for Violin, Piano, or Cello Complete Concertos Meet the Orchestra The Myroslav Skoryk Lviv National Philharmonic is an artistic centre in the centre of an ancient European city and one of the leading cultural institutions in Ukraine! During 1953 to 1957, and later in 1987–1989, the conductor of the orchestra was Yuriy Lutsiv. From 1964 to 1987, the symphony orchestra was led by Demyan Pelekhaty. From 1989 the main conductor of the orchestra was Ivan Yuzyuk, the conductors were Roman Filipchuk and Yarema Kolessa. Later this position was held by Aidar Torybayev, Ilya Stupel, Taras Krysa. Since 2018, the orchestra has been cooperating with American conductor of Ukrainian origin Theodore Kuchar, who is now the main guest conductor of the orchestra. In 2006, the Lviv National Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra was awarded the title "Academic". In 2018, with the participation of this group, during the Myroslav Skoryk author's concert, the Lviv Philharmonic received "national" status. Since September, 2020, the Philharmonic has been named after this Ukrainian composer. The concertmasters of the orchestra are Honored Artist of Ukraine Marko Komonko and Mykola Gavyuk. The Symphony Orchestra of the Lviv National Philharmonic is a regular participant in international festivals. In particular, the International Festival of Musical Art Virtuosos, the international festival of contemporary music Kontrasty, the Ukrainian-Polish festival Discovering Paderewski. The orchestra has toured in many countries around the world, including Poland, Italy, Spain, France, Switzerland, Germany, the Netherlands, and China. Over the past few seasons, the orchestra has made a number of important recordings for major international labels, including Naxos and Brilliant Classics. The Lviv Philharmonic was inaugurated on 27 September 1902 in the Count Stanisław Skarbek Theatre, which was specially redesigned for the Philharmonic’s needs (today the building is home to the Mariia Zankovetska National Academic Ukrainian Drama Theatre). It was an excellent venue for public performances, as it had 1095 seats, a large moving stage (160 square metres), a concert organ, electric lighting, central heating, and fountains, a cafeteria, a restaurant, and a winter garden. Meet the Conductor Previous Next The multiple award-winning conductor Theodore Kuchar is the most recorded conductor of his generation and appears on over 130 compact discs for the Naxos, Brilliant Classics, Ondine, Marco Polo and Toccata Classics labels. He has served as the Artistic Director and Principal Conductor of two of Europe’s leading orchestras, the National Symphony Orchestra of Ukraine and the Janacek Philharmonic Orchestra (formerly the Czech Radio Orchestra) while also serving as the Principal Conductor of the Slovak National Symphony Orchestra and Slovak Sinfonietta. In the 2011-12 season he commenced his tenure as the Artistic Director and Principal Conductor of the Orquesta Sinfonica de Venezuela and prior to that served as the Music Director and Principal Conductor of the Queensland Philharmonic Orchestra in Brisbane, Australia. His current positions include: Principal Conductor of the Lviv National Philharmonic Orchestra of Ukraine since 2022. Resident Conductor at the Kent/Blossom Music Festival since 2004. Artistic Director of the Nevada Chamber Music Festival since 2005. Chief Conductor of the Janáček Philharmonic Orchestra from 2005 to 2012. Artistic Director of the Venezuela Symphony Orchestra since 2011. Professor of Orchestral Conducting at Houghton University since 2022. Learn More Application and Audition Process Application form is DUE by the posted DEADLINES throughout the season. Upload video of any piece (with or without accompaniment). YouTube or Google Drive links are accepted Application fee $75 Selected musicians will be invited to audition live on a public Internet TV Broadcast* and will receive a preparation tech session with VCHS Broadcast Engineers. You will meet the Judges during Live Audition. Live Auditions are held virtually. Live Auditions are judged in real time. Judges provide participants with immediate on-air feedback. During the live audition participants will be able to speak with Judges. • The judges’ decisions are final and may not be contested. • To participate in the live online auditions, each musician must prepare required technical setup Live Audition Fee - $250 *Fee includes the Technology Preparation session with A/V and Broadcast engineers You will be notified about your acceptance into the colORCHESTRA program Fees Application and video pre-screening - $75 Live Audition - $250 Performance - NO FEE ($0) Selected soloists are expected to cover their own travel expenses. Upon request colORCHESTRA provides supporting documentation for selected soloists' visa applications. Selected soloists may request press releases, letters of recommendation, confirmations of their participation in the concert, in support of the soloist's grants applications. Apply Complete Concertos The foundation of the Philharmonic and its first decades “Lviv should be proud of its Philharmonic and rejoice that this truly artistic institution has put it among the first musical cities in Europe.” Jan Skrzydlewski The Lviv Philharmonic was inaugurated on 27 September 1902 in the Count Stanisław Skarbek Theatre, which was specially redesigned for the Philharmonic’s needs (today the building is home to the Mariia Zankovetska National Academic Ukrainian Drama Theatre). It was an excellent venue for public performances, as it had 1095 seats, a large moving stage (160 square metres), a concert organ, electric lighting, central heating, and fountains, a cafeteria, a restaurant, and a winter garden. The Lviv Philharmonic began its activities alongside the philharmonic societies and orchestras of Prague (1901), Warsaw (1901), Stockholm (1902), and Madrid (1903). The new musical location of the city was organised on the initiative of Ludwik Heller, Ludwik Czelansky and Henryk Jarecki. In 2006, the Lviv National Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra was awarded the title "Academic". In 2018, with the participation of this group, during the Myroslav Skoryk author's concert, the Lviv Philharmonic received "national" status. Since September, 2020, the Philharmonic has been named after this Ukrainian composer. The concertmasters of the orchestra are Honored Artist of Ukraine Marko Komonko and Mykola Gavyuk. The Symphony Orchestra of the Lviv National Philharmonic is a regular participant in international festivals. In particular, the International Festival of Musical Art Virtuosos, the international festival of contemporary music Kontrasty, the Ukrainian-Polish festival Discovering Paderewski. The orchestra has toured in many countries around the world, including Poland, Italy, Spain, France, Switzerland, Germany, the Netherlands, and China. Over the past few seasons, the orchestra has made a number of important recordings for major international labels, including Naxos and Brilliant Classics. The Lviv Philharmonic was inaugurated on 27 September 1902 in the Count Stanisław Skarbek Theatre, which was specially redesigned for the Philharmonic’s needs (today the building is home to the Mariia Zankovetska National Academic Ukrainian Drama Theatre). It was an excellent venue for public performances, as it had 1095 seats, a large moving stage (160 square metres), a concert organ, electric lighting, central heating, and fountains, a cafeteria, a restaurant, and a winter garden.

< Back Previous The Castanets of Madrid Next The Castanets of Madrid Gala at Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall June 30, 2025 WATCH VIDEO Teresa Laiz Conductor Castanet Virtuoso, Performer, Composer, and Educator. Born in Madrid in 1966, Teresa Laiz has dedicated over three decades to the art of the castanets. Her journey began through intensive training in Spanish Dance under celebrated masters such as Víctor Ullate, Ana Mercedes, Rafael de Córdoba, Candela Soto, La Tani, El Farruquito, Juan Carlos Lérida, and Belén Maya. Until 2003, her professional focus was primarily on Spanish Dance and Flamenco, after which she began creating multidisciplinary performances inspired by the works of Federico García Lorca—integrating theater, music, dance, and castanets. A turning point in her artistic path came in 2005, when she met Maestro José de Udaeta, who introduced her to the world of Concert Castanets. Their collaboration led to several joint performances, and in 2006, Teresa Laiz embarked on a solo career. Since then, she has composed original castanet scores and performed a wide range of repertoires—including classical, Spanish, and folk—distinguished by their virtuosity and emotional intensity. An experienced and passionate educator, Teresa has been teaching since 1987. Her expertise spans Classical Ballet, Spanish Dance, Flamenco, Creative and Ballroom Dance, and Castanets. She has taught at numerous institutions, including the prestigious “Amor de Dios” Flamenco and Spanish Dance Center in Madrid. Currently, she is on faculty at the School of Performing Arts Ma non troppo in Madrid. Teresa’s performance career includes appearances on major radio and television channels (TVE, Telecinco, Cuatro TV, Telemadrid, Rai TV, Canal Nord Catalunya, TV Costa Brava, and more), and on stages across Spain, Italy, France, Austria, and the United States. She has been featured at distinguished festivals such as the International Festival of Porta Ferrada, Festival des Articulés (France), the Catalunya Against Cancer Festival, and the International Castanets Festival, which she founded in 2009—the world’s first and only festival devoted entirely to castanets in all styles. She has collaborated with a diverse range of musical ensembles, from intimate piano or guitar duos to full symphony orchestras. Her notable performances include appearances at the Liria Palace, the National Auditorium of Spain, Plaza Mayor in Madrid, the Musikverein in Vienna, and Carnegie Hall in New York. Her stage partners have included world-renowned artists such as Montserrat Martí Caballé, Luis Santana, Marika Spadafino, Carmen Solís, Nancy Fabiola Herrera, Aquiles Machado, Sílvia Pérez Cruz, Clara Montes, José de Udaeta, Antonio Reyes, Adrián Galia, and Sergio Bernal. Teresa is a two-time winner of the Progressive Musicians International Music Competition, in both the Soloist and Ensemble categories, earning her performances at Carnegie Hall in 2022 and 2023. In 2024, she and soprano Marta Casas won First Prize in the Fanny Mendelssohn International Competition (Professional Chamber Music category). Her discography includes the solo album Repicando el Alma (2007), as well as collaborations on albums such as Parlem-ne (2008, with Santi Vendrell), Canciones del comer y del beber (2010, with Els que canten), and “Bellas Promesas” (2022, with La Firu). She also performed on the soundtrack of The Man Who Killed Don Quixote, directed by Terry Gilliam, with music by Roque Baños. As an author, she published Castanet Method by Teresa Laiz, Vol. 1, available on Amazon, and continues to develop further volumes. She also completed formal studies in orchestral conducting at the Navarro Lara School of Orchestra and Band Conducting. Teresa is the founder and director of the O.I.R. (Orchestra of Rare Instruments) and the Castanets Choir of Madrid. In 2019, she launched the Online Castanets School, offering digital instruction to students worldwide. In 2023, she established the Teresa Laiz International Castanets Competition, which will hold its third edition in February 2025. In concert, Teresa redefines the castanets as a solo instrument capable of expressing the depth and breadth of musical tradition—from Baroque masters such as Bach and Scarlatti to Spanish composers like Albéniz and Falla, to Catalan, flamenco, jazz, pop, and international folk music. She performs her own original scores, bringing renewed visibility and artistic prestige to this deeply rooted, yet often overlooked, instrument of Spanish culture. Today, she continues to compose, teach, perform internationally, and lead efforts to preserve and elevate the art of castanets. She is currently preparing the 11th International Castanets Festival and the 3rd Teresa Laiz International Castanets Competition. Nora Muñoz Spanish Dance Artist and Castanet Soloist From an early age, Nora Muñoz began her artistic training in Classical Ballet, Spanish Dance, and Mexican Folklore. She later specialized in Stylized Spanish Dance, Spanish Classical, and Flamenco, studying under renowned Mexican master Oscar Tarriba through the teachings of Ana María Sánchez. Her formation has been enriched through masterclasses, workshops, and seminars with acclaimed teachers from both Mexico and Spain, deepening her technique and expressive artistry. Nora has performed as a guest artist in various Flamenco productions and Spanish Classical Dance concerts, and appeared in the opera Carmen at the Apollo Art Performance in California, USA. As an educator, she has taught Spanish Dance, introductory Flamenco, and Castanets for both public institutions and private organizations, while also directing her own Spanish Dance studio. In 2023, Nora was awarded Second Prize as one of the four finalists in the 1st Teresa Laiz International Castanet Competition. That same year, she earned her Degree in Concert Castanets from the Teresa Laiz International Castanet School in Spain, a member of the International Dance Council CID–UNESCO. Currently, she is a member of the Castanet Choir of Madrid, under the direction of Teresa Laiz, where she performs both as a soloist and ensemble artist. Florencia Fourcade Dance Educator, Composer, Choreographer, and Castanet Soloist Florencia Fourcade is an accomplished dance teacher, composer, choreographer, and castanet soloist with over two decades of experience. Since 2000, she has taught at the Elina Molina Estrella Dance School, where she leads classes in Castanets, Classical Ballet, Contemporary Dance, Flamenco, and Spanish Dance. In 2020, she was appointed Director of the school, where she continues to inspire and mentor new generations of dancers. In 2024, she graduated from the Teresa Laiz International Castanet School, Spain, where she now also serves as a faculty member. Her dual role as performer and educator reflects her commitment to the development of the concert castanet as a solo instrument. Florencia is a soloist member of the Castanet Choir of Madrid, under the direction of Teresa Laiz, contributing to performances that elevate the castanets in both traditional and contemporary repertoires. She is also the co-founder of the International Castanet Foundation “Castamusic”, an initiative dedicated to promoting the cultural and artistic value of the castanets worldwide. Her artistic contributions have been formally recognized by the Senate of Mendoza for her work in cultural development. She has appeared in major events and venues across Argentina, Spain, and New York, earning praise for her expressive performances and original compositions. In February 2025, Florencia was awarded First Prize in the Concert Castanet Category at the III Teresa Laiz International Castanet Competition, further solidifying her position as a leading figure in this unique musical discipline. Isabel Alarcón Dancer and Castanet Soloist Isabel Alarcón is a Spanish dancer from Madrid, currently based in Seville, Andalucía. A graduate of the prestigious Carmen Amaya Professional Conservatory in Spanish Dance and Flamenco, she was later awarded a scholarship at the Cristina Heeren Foundation of Flamenco Art, where she studied with renowned masters such as Milagros Menjíbar and Javier Barón. Her talent has been recognized in major flamenco competitions: she was a finalist in the Ubrique Flamenco Competition 2024, as well as in the Federation of Peñas of Málaga (2024) and Seville (2023). In 2024, she won the II Tablao Competition of Casa de la Memoria, one of Seville’s most respected flamenco venues. In February 2025, she was awarded First Prize in the Category of Castanets for Dance Accompaniment at the III Teresa Laiz International Castanet Competition, highlighting her excellence in this specialized art form. Isabel has performed on some of Spain’s most iconic stages, including the Royal Theatre of Spain, Gran Teatre del Liceu in Barcelona, and the National Auditorium of Music in Madrid. She is a frequent performer in tablaos and peñas across Andalucía, and also appears as a castanet soloist with orchestras, bringing the rich tradition of Spanish dance and music to concert stages. Her choreography is deeply rooted in traditional forms, yet transformed by her personal artistry into an elegant, refined, and uniquely expressive style. Bárbara Martín Legal Expert, Social Leader, and Castanet Enthusiast Bárbara Martín holds degrees in Politics and Administration from the Spanish Open University (2018) and Law from the University of Granada (1997). She has also pursued advanced academic and professional training, including: Master’s in Legal Practices and Procedures (2000) Master’s in Managing Small and Medium-Sized Companies (1998) Master’s in Fundraising Management for Non-Profit Organizations (2022) XI Strategic Management and Social Leadership Program, IESE – University of Navarra (2021) Her expertise in European and disability law is reinforced by her participation in several specialized programs, including: 15th Intensive Seminar on the European Union, College of Europe, Bruges (2008) Institutions of the European Union, Spanish Diplomatic School (2007) International Disability Summer School on the CRPD, National University of Ireland (2012) Course on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, Spanish Open University (2011) Since 2015, Bárbara has served as Vice-President of the European Blind Union (EBU). She currently leads the Coordination Unit for Institutional Agreements and External Collaborations at ONCE, a role she has held since 2019. Fluent in Spanish, English, and Italian, Bárbara is also deeply passionate about the arts. In 2021, she began her castanet studies at the Teresa Laiz International Castanet School, joining the Madrid Castanets Choir in 2022. On September 24, 2023, she became the President of the Teresa Laiz Fan Club, a role that reflects her joy in supporting and celebrating this unique musical art form. Pilar Vita Castanet Performer and Flamenco Arts Enthusiast Pilar Vita, born in Granada, holds a degree in Pharmacy and an MBA, and has completed postgraduate studies at the University of Cambridge. Alongside her academic and professional accomplishments, she has maintained a lifelong passion for traditional flamenco music, singing, and dance, which she began exploring at an early age through classes and amateur performance groups. Pilar has been playing castanets for over 30 years, and in 2022, she deepened her artistic journey by studying under acclaimed castanet soloist and teacher Teresa Laiz. That same year, she joined the Madrid Castanets Choir, founded and directed by Teresa Laiz, where she performs in repertoires spanning classical, Spanish, and popular music. With the Choir, Pilar has performed in distinguished venues such as the Teatro Flamenco Madrid, Teatro Lara, Teatro Reina Victoria (as part of the IX and X International Castanets Festivals), the Royal Monastery of Santa María de El Paular, San Ildefonso Church, and St. Michael’s Church in Brihuega (Guadalajara). She continues to expand her knowledge of flamenco through the Flamenco Vivo program—a comprehensive study of flamenco theory and practice offered by the Flamencology Department of the University of Córdoba. Pilar is also a student member of the International Dance Council CID – UNESCO, reflecting her commitment to lifelong learning and international artistic exchange. She remains an active member of the Castanet Choir of Madrid, contributing to the revitalization and visibility of castanets as a concert instrument. Megan Lee Performer and Member of the Castanet Choir of Madrid Megan Lee is a New York native whose artistic journey began with the study of piano and ballet, leading to early performances in ballets, operas, and musicals. At the age of 17, she joined the Atlanta Ballet Company, and later appeared in New York summer stock and off-Broadway productions. Her career took her abroad to France, where she toured for several years with a French musical group, blending her love of music and stage performance. After some time away from the stage, Megan rediscovered the joy of music and movement through her participation in Teresa Laiz’s Castanet Choir, an unexpected and fulfilling return to her artistic roots. She continues to explore the expressive power of castanets as part of this unique ensemble.

< 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 Sara Mahn Next Flutist Gala at Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall June 28, 2025 WATCH VIDEO Sara Mahn discovered her passion for the flute at age ten, inspired by its expressive range and capacity for storytelling. One of her earliest and most meaningful memories is playing Danny Boy for her late uncle, who encouraged her devotion to music by gifting her flutes. That bond of music and memory continues to shape Sara’s artistry today. By age twelve, Sara knew the flute was more than a hobby. Recognized for her talent by her teachers, she began private studies and soon distinguished herself as first chair flute in both her school ensembles and the regional youth symphony. As a high school junior, she won the symphony’s Concerto Competition, making her solo debut with the orchestra. Sara went on to earn her degree in flute performance, serving as first chair in both the Orchestral Band and Symphony Orchestra. In her senior year, she captured first prize in her university’s Concerto Competition, affirming her artistry among peers. While rooted in the Classical tradition, she has since expanded into Jazz and Rock, embracing a wide range of musical expression. In March 2025, Sara made her international debut at Vienna’s Musikverein and the Palace Coburg as part of the Winners Recitals of the Special Venue Music Awards. Audiences praise her ability to balance technical precision with deep emotion—hallmarks that make her one of today’s most compelling young flutists.