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 Alicia Arriaza Next Gala at Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall June 28, 2026 WATCH VIDEO Born in Seville in 2012 into a family of musicians, cellist Alicia Arriaza began her studies at the age of five. Deeply passionate about the cello, she has participated in masterclasses with renowned artists including Frans Helmerson, J. Peter Maintz, Gustav Rivinius, Miklós Perényi, Christian-Pierre La Marca, Valentin Radutiu, Paolo Bonomini, and Adrian Brendel. Despite her young age, Alicia has already received numerous awards, including First Prize at the 29th “Visitación Magarzo” Soloists Competition, Second Prize at the David Geringas International Cello Competition (Klaipėda, 2025), Third Prize and the Junior Talent Award at the 8th Dotzauer International Cello Competition, and Third Prize at the David Popper International Cello Competition, among others. Since the age of ten, Alicia has studied with Carmen María Elena. She is also a student of the Barenboim-Said Foundation, where she has studied with Maestro Pavel Gomziakov since the 2022–2023 academic year. Through the Foundation, she has had the opportunity to perform with its orchestra under conductors including Nuno Coelho, Vasily Petrenko, Oksana Lyniv, and Thomas Guggeis, as well as to receive artistic guidance from Sennu Laine and Alexander Kovalev at the Barenboim Akademie in Berlin. Alicia has performed at the Baeza International Festival and has appeared in chamber music concerts alongside artists such as Clara Cernat, Thierry Huillet, Alexander Sitkovetsky, and J. Peter Maintz. She will make her orchestral debut as a soloist on March 14, 2026, in London, performing Saint-Saëns’ Cello Concerto No. 1 in A minor, Op. 33. She has the privilege of performing on a bow generously loaned by renowned maker C. Jochen Schmidt of Dresden, Germany, and on an 18th-century Italian cello by Antonio Ungarini. Alicia currently continues her studies at the Yehudi Menuhin School in London with Matthijs Broersma.

Watch LIVE Semifinals of Sound Espressivo 2021 Sound Espressivo Competition LIVE Semifinals are here! Nearly 100 musicians from around the entire globe were selected by the International Judges Panel. They are taking virtual stage performing LIVE! Judges commenting live on-air. Please support live music perfuming and courageous musicians by sharing, reposting, and inviting people to watch and to comment! If you join us LIVE – we will show your comments onscreen during the applause Sound Espressivo 2021 LIVE! Play Video Search videos Search video... Sound Espressivo Gala and Announcement of Winners Play Video SEC Finals. Session 1, Age group 26+. January 29 at 10:00 am EST Play Video SEC Finals. Session 2, Age groups 15-18 & 19-25. January 29 at 3:00pm EST Play Video SEC Finals. Session 3, Age group 10 and under & 11-14. January 29 at 8:00pm EST Play Video SEC Finals. Session 4. Age groups 10 and under & 11-14. LIVE, January 30 at 10:00 am. Play Video SEC Finals. Session 5, Age group 26+. January 30 at 3:00pm EST Play Video SEC Finals. Session 6, Age groups 15-18 & 19-25. January 30 at 8:00pm Play Video SEC Semifinals LIVE, Session 5. Saturday, December 18, 2021 Play Video

< Back Previous Giacomo Franci Next Conductor, The New York Chamber Players Gala at Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall June 28, 2025 WATCH VIDEO Maestro Giacomo Franci is an internationally recognized pianist, conductor, and recording artist. He is the Founder, Artistic Director, and Conductor of The New York Chamber Players, established in 2004. Since their acclaimed debut at CAMI Concert Hall in New York City, the ensemble has continued to grow in reputation and artistic excellence. Franci is celebrated worldwide as a foremost interpreter of Aaron Copland’s music. His landmark triple CD, The Complete Edited Piano Works by Aaron Copland (Fone’ Classics), earned critical acclaim and established his reputation. He performed at Alice Tully Hall, Lincoln Center, for Copland’s centennial in 2000 to outstanding reviews. His discography also includes Igor Stravinsky: The Complete Published Piano Works (2010, Fone’ Classics), praised by Audio Review Magazine as “the Great Igor Stravinsky in the outstanding performance by Giacomo Franci.” In 2016 he began recording Beethoven’s Complete Piano Sonatas for Sheva Collection, with multiple releases planned. As a performer, Franci has appeared in major venues across Europe, the United States, South America, and Asia. His Carnegie Recital Hall debut in 1998 drew comparisons from Musica magazine to Glenn Gould and Arturo Benedetti Michelangeli. He has performed with leading orchestras including the Philharmonic Orchestra of Veneto, Orchestra Sinfonica di Grosseto, Richmond County Orchestra, Orchestra da Camera Fiorentina, Ensemble Orchestral de Bordeaux, the Beijing Symphony Orchestra, and many others, often appearing in the dual role of soloist and conductor. Franci’s conducting career has expanded internationally, with appearances leading the Shanghai Baroque Chamber Orchestra, Concepción Symphony Orchestra, Orchestra dei Pomeriggi Musicali di Milano, Boston Chamber Orchestra at Tanglewood, and the New York Chamber Players. He was invited as Guest Maestro at the Escuela de Dirección de Orquesta in Córdoba, Spain, for the 2010–11 season. Trained in both piano and conducting, Franci earned his Bachelor’s degree at the Boccherini Music Institute in Lucca, studying with Gaetano Gaeta and Giampiero Semeraro. He was awarded a Master’s scholarship at the Scuola di Alto Perfezionamento Musicale in Saluzzo, where he studied with Jean Fassinat and Aldo Ciccolini, and later pursued conducting studies with Piero Bellugi and Gustav Kuhn at Teatro Comunale di Pisa. Franci has been featured in broadcasts on WQXR’s Reflections from the Keyboard and WWFM’s Piano Matters with David Dubal, alongside appearances on ABC, WPIX, Manhattan Cable, Hofstra University Radio, and international television and radio networks. In 2008, he was included in the Cambridge Who’s Who Registry of accomplished professionals. Originally from Tuscany, Maestro Franci resides in New York City, where in addition to his performing and conducting career he leads The Tribeca Music Studio, dedicated to training the next generation of pianists and singers.

< Back Cristina Botnari Violin Learn More Videos About Mrs. Botnari-Kulik holds 2 Master Degrees: First one in violin performance from the Moscow State Conservatory (Moscow, Russia) and second one in Arts Management from American University (Washington,DC), has an extensive experience in all aspects of classical music such as performance, project creation and management, governance, operations, production, marketing, fundraising … working as a performer and/or as a manager with such organizations as Moscow Philharmonic Chamber Orchestra, Great Hall Symphony Orchestra, The National Symphony Orchestra, John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Washington Performing Arts Society, United Arts Organizations, , RMS records, RMS TV, Washington Youth Chamber Orchestra, Arlington Symphony, Fairfax Symphony, Virginia Chamber Orchestra and many others. Presently, is one of the founding Directors of the RMS foundation and on the Advisory Board of Directors for the Russian Ballet Academy of Maryland as well as a Grammy voting member. Eastern European born violinist Cristina Botnari is holding her MA in Violin Performance and Music Education from the legendary Moscow State (Tchaikovski) Conservatory, Russia (professors: Grigory Feigin and Eduard Grach). Cristina is a Laureate of the National Competition and has a Diploma from the International Center of Chamber Music. While living in Moscow, Cristina has worked in Moscow State Philharmonic and has toured with different ensembles (such as Moscow State Philharmonic Chamber Orchestra, Great Hall Symphony Orchestra, Young Russia Symphony Orchestra, etc.) throughout Russia, Germany, Spain, Austria, South Korea, Romania, Slovakia, and Republics of Former Soviet Union. Mrs. Botnari also has participated in many international festivals such as International Music Festival of George Enescu, Russian-Korean Festival, etc., as well as master classes. Since moving to DC Area, Mrs. Botnari performed at the Kennedy Center, Washington Choral Arts Society Symphony Orchestra; served as a Concertmaster and soloist of AU Symphony and Chamber Orchestra. Mrs. Botnari was performing with Alexandria Symphony Orchestra, Fairfax Symphony Orchestra, Arlington Symphony Orchestra, Virginia Chamber Orchestra and other chamber groups throughout the area. Cristina is a recipient of numerous awards and scholarships and is a member of American Federation of Musicians. Awards Laureate of State Competition Diploma from International Center of Chamber Music Sarasota Music Festival Full Tuition Scholarship (Florida) Winner of American University Concerto Competition (Washington, DC) Mary Howe and Hans Kindler Memorial Scholarship (Washington, DC R M S Scholarship (Russia) David W. Wainhouse Memorial Scholarship (Washington, DC) Arts Management Cristina is al so holding her second MA in Arts Management from American University (Washington, DC) as well as post graduate internship at the Villar Institute of Arts Management at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Cristina had management experience from Russia, working for the RMS and as well as Great Hall Symphony Orchestra management. While studying at AU, Mrs. Botnari-Kulik has also worked with such organizations as: United Arts Organizations (fundraising), Washington Performing Arts Society (special events fundraising), National Symphony Orchestra (operations), later Cristina has served as a Managing Director for the Washington Youth Chamber Orchestra and presently is the CEO of the RMS overseeing RMS records, RMS TV, RMS management. https://www.cristinabotnari.com/ Previous Next

< Back Adrianne Greenbaum Flute/Klezmer/Baroque Learn More Videos About ADRIANNE GREENBAUM , pioneer of the klezmer flute tradition, recognized as the “Queen of Klezmer Flute”, Professor of Flute at Mount Holyoke College, is the foremost purveyor of the klezmer flute tradition. Having reached International acclaim as both a klezmer and classical flutist, Adrianne performs on modern, traverso and 19th c. flutes. She has performed in many national and international festivals and conventions: as soloist with orchestra at the National Flute Convention, solo recitals at the British Flute Convention, full concerts in the KlezMore Festival in Vienna, tours in US, Scotland and Poland with a variety of narrated themes that are both informative and highly entertaining, with dancing in the aisles being a must. Adrianne Greenbaum is a nationally acclaimed flutist and clinician, performing on historical instruments of the 18th and 19th centuries and modern Boehm system. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z0SaP05nq2o Having received her upper level degrees from the Oberlin College Conservatory and Yale University School of Music, she has held professorships for five decades at prestigious colleges and universities previous to Mount Holyoke, those being Smith, Yale and Wesleyan. With performances of both klezmer and classical concerts across the globe, her career ranks amongst the finest musicians of her time. She began her career as a classical musician, maintaining her presence in the field performing recitals at universities, conventions national and local – Brittish, National Flute Association, New York to name a few - and as an orchestral musician as Principal of both the New Haven Symphony (recently retired) and Orchestra New England. Highlights of her presence in the classical arena included many years performing with the New York City Ballet Orchestra, performances with New York’s Mostly Mozart Festival, and as Principal flutist with Berlin Ballet at the Met. She can be heard in recordings of her own solo album “Sounds of America” as well as those produced by Koch International and Music Masters labels. As a klezmer flutist Adrianne has been crowned The Queen of Klezmer Flute, thanks to both a press comment and public opinion. Rising to prominence early on with her first album “FleytMuzik”, performing with stellar musicians Cookie Segelstein, Josh Horowitz and Marty Confurius, attention was quickly and easily drawn to Greenbaum as the foremost exponent and pioneer of the klezmer flute tradition, a position held in high regard by her esteemed colleagues. Audiences as well have come to truly appreciate the instrument’s special qualities because of such high level performing on the long-forgotten instrument of the ensembles of the past. Her FleytMuzik albums, with the above-mentioned musicians and more recently with Pete Rushefsky, Michael Alpert and Jake Shulman-Ment, as well as an earlier recording Family Portrait, produced by her first klezmer ensemble “Klezical Tradition”, have been firmly placed in the core of the klezmer output of the late 20th and now 21st centuries. Her latest recording project Farewell to the Homeland: Poyln gained an appreciation from the public and from colleagues alike for connecting early klezmer bands of Poland – in particular the Frandt kapelye of Dubiecko, Poland – and continues to be presented in narrated form in concert. Other themed concerts with FleytMuzik include a narrated A Khasene far di Zisn Kale and her touring show Tartan, Baroque and Klezmer! A recently added klezmer project is the formation of “di naye froyen kapelye” a super group of five prominent North American women in klezmer, with Cookie Segelstein, Marilyn Lerner, Susan Watts and Lauren Brode. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lRC1xHjtJsY Adrianne Adrienne Greenbaum flute klezmer klezmerflute classical professor Mount Holyoke College Photo by Lloyd Wolf ADRIANNE has involved herself with teaching at all levels, from the day-one experience of flute playing, to coaching professionals on the fine distinction of colorful tone production, period performance practice and making music come alive. Beyond her private studio she has taught at many adult programs: KlezKamp, KlezKanada, KlezmerQuerque, Boxwood Festival (Nova Scotia) and Santa Fe Flute Immersion. Known as the Flute Pioneer in the klezmer world, Adrianne leads workshops wherever she travels: England, France, Austria, and across the US. She is a published composer and arranger of her own compositions of flute choir and of flute and orchestra music. RECORDINGS: You will find my records on the “Shop” page in the menu. The hard copies are for those who wish to read my detailed liner notes. For digital, iTunes carries all but "Sounds of America" which you will find on my BandCamp account by clicking on the link. To whet your appetite, you can peruse Youtube by typing in my name (Adrianne - with an "a") and flute OR take a listen to this fun video I have selected for you! (Epic fun times for me, with Michael Alpert, David McGinness, and Lev when we toured in Scotland!) Previous Next

< Back Nader Abbassi Conductor and Composer Learn More Videos About NADER ABBASSI - Conductor and Composer In his conducting career Nader Abbassi benefits from his wide professional experience as composer, singer and bassoonist. He made his acclaimed conducting-debut in 2002 with Verdi's "Aida" at the pyramids in Giza. His extensive work as an opera-conductor includes: “Maria Golovine”, “Hamlet”, “Un Ballo in Maschera”, “La Belle Helene”, “Aida”, “Carmen” (Marseille Opera House), “Dialogues des Carmelites” (Opéra de Bordeaux), “Aida” (Glimmerglass Festival New York, Thessaloniki Greece, Beijing China), “La Traviata”, “La Bohème” (Ireland & Russia), “Madama Butterfly”, “Barbe Bleue” (Marseille) “Kiss Me Kate” (Geneva). In the course of his career Nader Abbassi has held the positions of artistic director and principal conductor of the following orchestras: Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra, Doha, Katar (2009-2012) Cairo Opera Opera Orchestra, Cairo, Egypt (2002-2011) Under his leadership these orchestras were invited to perform in many tours and festivals in Germany, Austria, France, Netherlands, Greece, South-Korea, China, Oman, Mexico, Argentina. Since 2004 Nader is the musical director of the Orchestre pour la Paix Paris, France. This orchestra was founded by the Argentinian pianist Miguel Estrella and unites young professional musicians from all over the world to promote a peaceful dialogue between different cultures and religions. With the Orchestre pour la Paix Nader Abbassi leads performances at the UNESCO World Heritage Site in Petra (Jordan), the International Court of Justice at De Hague, Théâtre de Châtelet, the Sénat de France. A charismatic artistic leader, commanding a large repertoire of opera, ballet and symphonic music, he is a regular guest conductor at many international opera companies and orchestras, such as: Orchestre de la Suisse Romande, Orchestre de Marseille, Orchestre de Bordeaux, Orchestre Symphonique de Bretagne, Glimmerglass Festival NY, Sacramento Philharmonic, Mexico Symphony Orchestra, Royal Opera Oman, Slovenian Philharmonic Orchestra, Lisbon Philharmonic Orchestra. He is a permanent Jury member of the “International Stenhammar Singing Competition” at Norrköping, the UNESCO City of Music in Sweden. Nader Abbassi is the founder and musical director of the United Philharmonic Orchestra & Choir - with whom he performs various concerts and participates in numerous international musical events. In 2021 Maestro Nader Abbassi is the musical director and conductor of two unique historical events in Egypt - each including more than 1000 musicians under his his leadership: The Pharaoh’s Golden Parade - celebrating the journey of 22 Royal mummies through the city of Cairo . https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bnlXW7KZl0c The Opening Ceremony of the Antique Sphinx Road at Luxor https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jA5oSNsty2Y Both events were globally broadcast and earned wide international recognition. The Sphinx Road also featured several of Nader's original compositions. The compositions of Nader Abbassi are being performed by numerous orchestras in France, Europe, Asia, North- and South America. For his achievements in music and culture Nader Abbassi has received many distinctions and awards: (selection) -Award of Excellency for the Pharao’s Golden Parade by the Ministry of Antiquities and Tourism Egypt -Award of Excellency of the Ministry of Culture Egypt -Award of Honour of the University of Technology and Information, Cairo, Egypt -Award of Lifetime Achievement of the Egyptian State TV -GPIS Award of Excellency -Award of Special Achievements for the Arts, National Academy of Arts Egypt -Award of Achievment for the Young Generation of the Cairo University -Award of Honour of Ain Shams University Previous Next

S ound Espressivo Rules, Regulations, Formats Some competitions may have varied requirements for repertory, age, dates, and other, and may award unique Prizes not available in other Competitions. For additional details please read carefully the webpage for that Competition. For additional details about Masters and Masterworks Competition, please see Section 15 below. Download a PDF of Rules here 1. Eligibility Competition is open to classical and jazz musicians of • all nationalities and all ages • all instruments and voice • ensembles and groups of any size and composition For the Preliminary Round applicants must either submit a recent video of their own performance or choose a date on the Application form to audition LIVE through an Internet Broadcast system. Semi Finalists and Finalists MUST be prepared to compete LIVE through Internet Broadcast TV method. Participants for The Sound Espressivo competition must have access to broadband internet with a computer that contains a microphone and video camera. Technical assistance, necessary preparations, consultations, individual remote tech check sessions with Broadcast Producers and Engineers, production of the Broadcast, and Broadcast management are provided by the Sound Espressivo partner, a Virginia based broadcasting and production company Virtual Concert Hals. 2. Competition Rounds Sound Espressivo is held in two rounds: • Preliminary Round • Finals 3. Dates, Deadlines, Application Process Refer to specific Dates and Deadlines stated on the Competition websites, for each Concert Season Contestants apply online through SEC website Portal by filling out the Application Form and completing the payment through SEC payment system online. Payment methods: major credit cards. Additional payment methods can be requested by an applicant, but not guaranteed. All contestants who advance to Finals Round will have to fill out a Registration Form and pay Live Auditions fee by a deadline stated in the Form, in order to confirm their participation in the Final Round. 4. Financial Aid Full and Partial Scholarships covering Application and/or Registration Fees may be awarded to qualified applicants based on need. Inquiries and requests for Financial Aid are considered based on the Applicant’s unique circumstances and the Competition’s ability to provide funds. Financial Aid may be awarded to qualified applicants towards purchasing and/or renting necessary equipment required for quality broadcasting of the Contestant’s performances in Semi Final and Final Rounds ONLY. No Aid will be awarded towards costs for Preliminary Round video submissions. 5. Age Groups, Categories, Instruments SEC accepts all instruments, ages, styles, and voice. In the Preliminary Round of the Competition contestants compete within their respective age groups. Instruments accepted: • Piano • All String Instruments • All Wind Instruments • Guitar • Harp • All Percussion Instruments • All Baroque Instruments • All Ensembles • Voice Eligible music styles and periods: • Baroque (Period instruments) • Classical • Contemporary including performances of original compositions by contestants and all types of “covers”: transcriptions, paraphrases, cadenzas, and other. • Jazz, including improvisations, jingles, mixes, standards, and other. • Music from around the world • Opera and Lieder • Broadway and Light In the Final Round contestants compete within their respective age groups in the following Categories: • 10 and under • 11-14 • 15-18 • Adult (19 and older) 6. Repertory and Time Limits • Contestants are free to choose any repertory, for ALL Rounds; pick what represents you best as a musician. • If you wish to be considered for special Awards check the descriptions on the website and plan your repertory accordingly. Time limits • For all Preliminary Round Auditions Videos time limit is 10 min. • You will not be disqualified for shorter performances • If you choose one composition which is longer than 10 min., you will not be disqualified for overtime • Final Rounds - time limits and repertory requirements vary, please check specific requirements on website. 7. Competition Procedures and Formats SEC is held globally online. Video submissions are allowed only for the Preliminary Round. Final Round is held in the format of a LIVE Internet TV public Broadcast. Technical assistance, necessary technical preparations, consultations, guidance materials (printed, digital, video); individual remote tech check sessions with Broadcast Producers and Engineers, production of the Broadcast, Broadcast management are provided by the Sound Espressivo business partner, Virtual Concert Halls, a Virginia, USA based broadcasting and production company. Videos and Broadcasts of the Competition Rounds are property of Sound Espressivo and Virtual Concert Halls which retain full control of the copyrights. 8. Adjudication process Each Preliminary Audition video is adjudicated by one member of the SEC Judges’ Panel. SEC Judges may provide written comments for video submissions (available upon request) Final Rounds are adjudicated by the Judges Panel consisting of several members. Judges will provide on-air artistic feedback to each contestant immediately after the performance. All decisions by SEC Judges are final and may not be disputed. All decisions by companies-sponsors of Prizes and Awards are made by the respective companies’ representatives and are final. 9. Prizes and Awards • Each Contestants will receive Judges' comments (written for video submissions, live onscreen for live performances) • Certificate of Participation. Laureates. Up to 6 (Six) Laureates will be chosen by the Judges Panel in consultation with SEC Board. Each Laureate Award Package is valued at total of $8,500. Total Award Pool for Laureate Awards is valued at $51,000. Laureates are eligible to receive the following Awards pending Judges Panel decisions: • Laureate Recital Award. Valued at $5,000 each. Full management service from VCHS necessary to provide the Laureate with an opportunity to present a full solo recital on the VCHS Virtual Stage. Each Laureate Recital will be publicly broadcast on all VCHS platforms. Each Laureate Recital will be promoted through VCHS social networks, mailing lists, media. Each Laureate Recital and its promotion campaigns will be serviced by VCHS producers, graphic designers, copywriters, social media specialists, audio/video streaming engineers. Dates of Laureate Recitals TBD • Laureate Interview Award. Valued at $2,000 each. Interview Award provided by VCHS. The Award is aimed at helping Laureates launch their careers, promote their artistry, jump-start their presence as musicians of statute. Each Interview will be professionally scripted and services by VCHS production teams and conducted by VCHS Host in a format of a live broadcast. Each Interview is up to 60 minutes in length. • Laureate Coaching Award. Valued at $1,000 each. Full course on professional streaming/broadcasting technology and methods provided by VCHS. Valued at $1,000 each. • Laureate Profile Award. Valued at $500 each. Professionally designed Artistic Profile on SEC and VCHS websites Laureates are eligible to receive additional Awards sponsored by Companies (check the Prizes Page on SEC website) Winners. Up to 12 (Twelve) Winners will be selected by the Judges Panels to receive Winners Package Award. Judges Panels have a complete discression when selecting Winners. Each Winner Award Package is valued at $3,800. Total Award Pool for Winners Awards is valued at $45,600. Judges Panels may choose up to: One First Place Winner, One Second Place Winner, One Third Place Winner in each Age Category Multiple Honorable Mentions may be awarded. • Winners Concert Award. Valued at $2,000 each. Up to 12 Winners will be selected by the Judges Panel to receive this award. Each Winner is eligible to receive full management service from VCHS necessary to provide the Winner with an opportunity to perform in a group Winners Concert on the VCHS Virtual Stage. Time limit per performer is 20 minutes. • Winner Group Interview Award. Valued at $1,000 each. Group Interview Award is provided by VCHS. The Award is aimed at helping Winners launch their careers, promote their artistry, jump-start their presence as musicians of statute. Each Interview will be professionally scripted and services by VCHS production teams and conducted by VCHS Host in a format of a live broadcast. Each Interview is up to 60 minutes in length and will present no more than 4 Winners. • Winner Group Coaching Award. Valued at $500. Full course on professional streaming/broadcasting technology and methods provided by VCHS. In groups of no more than 6 Winners. • Winner Profile Award. Valued at $300 each. Professionally designed Artistic Profile in a group space on SEC website. Honorable Mentions. Up to 10 (Ten Awards) Valued at $1,000 each. Total Award Pool for these Honorable Mention Awards is up to 10, or up to $10,000. All Finalists who are awarded an Honorable Mention will receive an Honorable Mention Award Package consisting of: Designer Certificate Profile in an Honorable Mention group page on SEC website An invitation to perform in one multicast group concert on VCHS Virtual Stage (time onstage per performer is limited to 5 minutes) Additional Awards and Prizes All applicants are eligible to be selected to compete in Sound Espressivo Live Finals All Finalists, including Laureates, Winners, and Honorable Mentions are eligible and considered to receive scholarship Prizes to participate in masterclasses with distinguished artists around the world. All Finalists are eligible and considered to receive scholarship Prizes for participation in prestigious summer programs and festivals around the World. All Finalists are eligible and considered to receive scholarship Prizes for VCHS Broadcasting Seminar All Semi Finalists and Finalists receive a Designer Certificate reflecting their respective advancements. All Applicants receive Recognition Award sponsored by the iClassical Academy, regardless of their advancement. All Applicants are eligible to receive free passes to observe masterclasses with distinguished artists around the world. Prizes sponsored by international music companies. All Finalists will be considered by SEC sponsoring companies as candidates for the Prizes (check the list of Prizes on SEC website periodic updates as the Competition regularly accepts more eligible Prizes from companies around the World). Sponsored Prizes are awarded by the companies- sponsors' representatives independently from the Judges Panels. Not all Prizes may be awarded. Companies’ decisions are final. Cash Awards. All Finalists, Winners, and Laureates are eligible and will be considered as candidates to receive cash Awards. Specific amounts of each category of cash Awards will be determined and announced by the SEC Board as soon as practical, for each Season. Your family and friends can watch your live performance and cheer in real time. Your performance will be recorded, and your friends will be able to see it after that date. If you choose to submit a video, it will be premiered on our channels and available for replays. 10. Prizes sponsored by Partner Companies Sponsor Companies’ Awards are posted publicly on the SEC website, for each Season. The list of Partner Companies and the Prizes is updated on a regular basis, please check periodically the Prizes and Awards page on the website for the most up-to-date information. Partner-sponsored Prizes include possibilities to receive: • Performance engagements, Management services, • Scholarships for prestigious music festivals and summer programs Scholarships for masterclasses and courses • Coaching programs for musicians in career planning, social media for musicians, professional topics of musicians’ health and wellbeing • Scholarships for access to professional and educational resources Professional audio and video recording services • Professional web design services specific to musicians and artists Graphic design services for performing artists. • All Finalists will be considered by SEC sponsoring companies as candidates for the Prizes (check the list of Prizes on SEC website periodic updates as the Competition regularly accepts more eligible Prizes from companies around the World). Sponsored Prizes are awarded by the companies-sponsors' representatives independently from the Judges Panels. Not all Prizes may be awarded. Companies’ decisions are final. 11. Teachers’ and Educational Institutions’ recognition Sound Espressivo Competition Board understands the importance of support which students receive from their community, their schools, and especially from their teachers, for them to grow as musicians. As our token of appreciation for the hard and creative work which these people and organizations invest in the students' growth and future, we provide Sound Espressivo Contestants' School and Teacher with a featured space on the Sound Espressivo website. Each Teacher and School will receive a Profile created on the SEC website, including visual branding and individual Teacher’s pictures, we will also provide links for visitors to learn more about these distinguished educators and institutions. 12. Public Broadcasts. Tech requirements and release/consent forms All public broadcasts of the Competition are provided and managed by Virtual Concert Halls, an independent broadcasting and production company registered and headquartered in Vienna, Virginia, USA. VCHS will provide each Contestant with who performs on the public broadcasts of SEC events with instructional materials, individual preparation time and tech checks with streaming producers and staff, and all assistance available, to ensure an even field of the quality technical presentation for all SEC Contestants. Please refer to the “Technical Requirements” section on the website for more detailed information All Contestants, Guests, Teachers, Representatives, others who appear on the VCHS Broadcasts of the SEC events must sign release/consent forms, as required by the Virginia local, the US Federal, and the international laws and regulations governing public Internet TV broadcasts. Please note: Each Contestant’s checking of a BOX on the Application Form constitutes their consent and is in place of a separate signature of a separate form. To review the form, click here Virtual Concert Halls enjoys the “Allow Listed Broadcaster status from the Warner Music Group which provides VCHS broadcasts with protection against getting “muted,” taken down, or otherwise disfigured by WMG Copyrights Department through copyrights claims. VCHS earned the status through its strict adherence to copyrights and international regulations. All those who appear on the SEC public broadcasts provided by VCHS will enjoy the privileged status which comes with the responsibilities for Contestants and others to only perform music which they have the right to perform. 13. Privacy Policy and Consent/Release Form By submitting an Application to any competitions posted on Sound Espressivo website you consent to Privacy Policy and copyrights Release for public broadcasts and other forms of presentations associated with participation on SEC events. SEC Privacy Policy can be reviewed here Consent /Release form can be viewed here 14. Competition Board Sound Espressivo Board of Directors and Advisers is the governing body of the Competition. SEC Board Officers and Members: Anna Ouspenskaya, Secretary Antara Hebbar, Member, Youth Advisor Micah Yui, Member, Adviser Avguste Antonov, Member, Adviser Mellasenah Morris-Edwards, Member, Adviser Michal Szostak, Member, Adviser Section 15 Masters and Masterworks Competition 2023-24 Music for Youth! Call for Scores by living Composers. Performers who wish to present new music. Compositions for Piano, Violin, Cello Winners - Scores and Perfomers - will be presented at the Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall Gala Concert on April 1, 2024 Performance at the Carnegie Hall is a Fully Sponsored opportunity, no performance fee required Application Deadline - October 15, 2023 Masters and Masterworks mission is to connect young musicians and living composers on a journey of discovery of Music for Youth! Music for Piano, Violin, or Cello, written for Young Performers. Violin and Cello pieces can be with or without accompaniment. No compositions for chamber ensembles. Compositions for Piano 4Hands are accepted. Awards Up to Three Scores will be selected for a performance at the Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall on April 1, 2024, at the Laureates Gala (one composition for Piano, plus one for Violin, plus one for Cello). Up to Three Performers will be selected to perform these compositions at Carnegie Hall. All performances are fully sponsored by Sound Espressivo, Progressive Musicians, and Virtual Concert Halls. There is NO PERFORMANCE FEE required for Winners to perform at the Gala concert at Carnegie Hall (travel and accommodations in NY City are the responsibility of the Winner). In addition to the performance, all Winners (Composers and Performers) will receive: A Carnegie Hall Archival DIGITAL VIDEO of their performance (see Regulations for acceptable uses as per by Carnegie Hall rules) Medal Certificate Full color brochure (digital and printed) Complimentary ticket An Interview by Steve Robinson, a world-renowned producer of Photos Letters of recommendation and other support Professional Portfolio packets available upon request Judges’ decisions are final and cannot be disputed. Not all Prizes may be awarded. Application and Audition Process Preliminary Round Composers sumbit scores. One score per Application. Duration limit - 5 min Performers submit a video of any composition of their choice. Time limit - 10 min Results Composers: Up to 6 scores will be selected for the Final Round (two scores per each instrument) Scores will be published on the websites and made downloadable for Performers. Composers whose pieces were selected will join the Judges Panel as Artistic Advisors (non-voting members). Performers: Up to 12 Finalists will be selected for the Live Round (4 musicians per each instrument). The jury may select Alternates. Finalists will choose a piece which they wish to prepare for the Final Round, from the Finalist scores. Final Round Live performance by 12 Finalists in front of the Judges Panel, on a world-wide Internet TV Broadcast. The Judges Panel includes Composers of the pieces which were selected for the Final Round. Composers and Performers will have an opportunity to meet and get to know each other. Judges from aroud 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. Performer Finalists will receive Technical Preparation session with VCHS Broadcast Directors and Engineers, in preparation for the broadcast, at no additional cost. More about Broadcast technology for musicians here Age Limits Composers: no age limit Performers: 18 and under Application Fee Composers: $75 Performers: $100 Finals Live fee: $0 Winners Performance at Carnegie Hall fee: $0 Important DATES October 15, 2023 - Composers submit scores and Application Deadline November 05, 2023 - Scores selected for Finals are announced. November 15, 2023 - Performer Application Deadline (submit a video of any composition) December 5, 2023 - 12 Finalists are announced. February 1, 2024 - Registration deadline for the Performers Tech Preparation sessions for Performers February 19-23, 2024 - Tech Preparation sessions for Finalists (no additional fee required) February 24-26, 2024 - Final Round of the Competition APRIL 1, 2024 - Laureates Gala Concert at Weill recital Hall at Carnegie Hall

< Back Previous Stacey Stofferahn Next Gala at Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall November 21, 2023 WATCH VIDEO Soprano Stacey Stofferahn’s professional credits include Tosca (West Bay Opera, Landlocked Opera), Senta in Der fliegende Holländer (Opera Siam, San Diego Symphony), Mimì in La Bohème (Heartland Opera, Modesto Opera), Minnie in La fanciulla del West (Apotheosis Opera), Musetta in La Bohème, Donna Elvira in Don Giovanni (WGO), Donna Anna in Don Giovanni (San Diego Symphony), Hanna in The Merry Widow (Lyric Opera San Diego), Erste Dame in Die Zauberflöte (LOKC), and the Contessa in Le nozze di Figaro (WBO). Additional roles include Micaëla (Carmen), Magda (La rondine), Violetta (La traviata), and Nedda (Pagliacci). Her concert appearances include Mozart’s Requiem with the Joplin Orchestra and the San Diego Symphony; Mahler Symphonies Nos. 2 and 8 with the San Diego Symphony and the Bozeman Symphony; Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony with the San Diego Symphony and the Joplin Orchestra; Brahms’ Ein deutsches Requiem with the Joplin Orchestra; and Beethoven’s Mass in C with Bulgaria International. Stacey holds a BA in Music Education from Augustana University; two MM degrees in Choral Conducting and Vocal Performance from UMKC; and a DMA in Vocal Performance from UMKC.

< Back Previous Danlei Wang Next Gala at Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall November 24, 2025 WATCH VIDEO Danlei Wang is a composer and cellist based in Los Angeles, California. Her music has been performed by ensembles including the World Youth Wind Symphony, the EAMA Resident String Quartet, and musicians from Interlochen and Juilliard. She is the first prize winner of the Music Teachers’ Association of California Composers Today Competition and was named a semifinalist for the 2025 ASCAP Morton Gould Young Composers Award. Danlei’s work reflects a deep engagement with both instrumental color and emotional narrative, drawing on her experience as a performer. She currently serves as a Los Angeles Philharmonic Young Composition Fellow for the 2025–26 academic year.

< Back Scott E. Woodard Conductor Learn More Videos About "Be simple and profound." "Make music visible in your hands." - Ilya Musin The entire universe is musical by nature. I want to make a unique and defined contribution through my talents which makes the world more artistic for its inhabitants. I want to make music visible in my hands, causing others to feel the same passion and drive for music that I feel with each breath. I want to influence all generations to be an active part of the music that is constantly around them. With each new musical experience, whether it be the study of a score or the conducting of a symphony, I evolve. Scott E. Woodard is the music director of the West Virginia State Philharmonic Orchestra (formerly known as the Charleston Chamber Orchestra) and the Butler Philharmonic Orchestra. In the 2022-2023 season, he is a finalist for the position of Music Director with the West Virginia Symphony Orchestra. Woodard’s study and pursuit of conducting has taken him all over the world. Past podiums include: guest conductor of the Macon Symphony Orchestra (2006), associate conductor (2016-17) and cover conductor (2013-16) of the West Virginia Symphony Orchestra, finalist in the Pittsburgh Philharmonic Orchestra conductor search (2019). Future conducting opportunities include guest conducting with the Ohio Valley Symphony Orchestra (2021). Woodard was named First Prize winner of the International Conductor’s Workshop Competition (2006) and First Prize at the International Academy of Advanced Conducting in St. Petersburg, Russia, where he is now a full faculty member of the Academy. Celebrated guest artists with whom Dr. Woodard has worked include Victoria Fatu, Romanian violinist Gabriel Croitoru, Israeli tenor Michael Riskin, Yip Wai Chow, and Cristian Fatu. Dr. Woodard’s primary teachers were Dr. Leonid Korchmar of the Mariinsky Theatre and the St. Petersburg Conservatory and Dr. Oleg Proskurnya, with whom he studied the methods of the Leningrad School of Conducting developed and taught by Maestro Ilya Musin at the Leningrad Conservatory from 1932-1999.In 2005 and 2011, Woodard conducted orchestras of the St. Petersburg Philharmonic Society and the Mariinsky Theatre in concerts throughout the former Russian capitol. He is a member of the Board of Directors of the International Conductor’s Guild and Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia fraternity. Woodard received the degrees of Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts in Music Education from Marshall University and the degree of Doctor of Musical Arts from Boston University. As a teacher, Woodard’s career has spanned thirty-six years. His teaching positions included Wirt County High School, Ceredo-Kenova High School, and Winfield High School. Woodard served as the Director of Instrumental Music at Winfield High School from 1990 – 2006. The Winfield HS Band under his direction performed in master class sessions with the New York Philharmonic Orchestra and was the 2005 Honor Finalist Concert Band at the WV Music Educators Conference in Morgantown, WV. He is currently the Director of Instrumental Music at West Virginia State University in Institute, WV, where he conducts the West Virginia State Philharmonic Orchestra and teaches advanced conducting. Woodard lives in Scott Depot, WV with his wife Nafi, who is a family practice physician, and their children, Gabriel and Gabriella. He is available for guest conducting opportunities in the US and abroad. Previous Next

< Back Previous Dwight Stone Next Composer Gala at Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall April 30, 2025 WATCH VIDEO Dwight Stone is a composer, pianist, and conductor based in the Bay Area of California. His diverse catalog spans vocal, choral, brass, orchestral, guitar, and piano works. Rooted in tonality yet enriched with polychords and aesthetic dissonance, Stone’s music explores harmonies that move beyond the mainstream. He is a multiple prizewinner in the Music Teachers’ Association of California (MTAC) Composition Competition and the United States Open Music Competition (USOMC), recognized for original piano compositions, improvisation, and choral works. An advocate for live performance, Stone founded two thriving concert series—St. Paul’s Concert Series in Walnut Creek and Trinity Concert Series in Pleasanton—bringing artists and audiences together in vibrant community settings. The StoneMusique Catalog includes more than 60 piano works, three dozen choral compositions, and pieces for brass, orchestra, chamber ensembles, and solo voice. His commissioned works include Whither Thou Goest (piano solo), An Irish Blessing (SSAA a cappella), Awake! Awake! (TTBB, 2 French horns, piano)—winner of the Jewish Music Competition of Los Angeles—and Psalm 100—Make a Joyful Noise! (SATB choir, oboe, organ, timpani). His compositions have marked significant cultural events, such as And On That Day (Interfaith Council of Contra Costa County, 2015 World Peace Interfaith Celebration) and Love Is! (gospel-pop, premiered at the 2017 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Interfaith Celebration in Walnut Creek). Stone’s CD Amsterdam (flute and piano) with flutist Nika Rejto was featured at the Greater San Francisco International Flute Festival and the Festival of New American Music (FENAM) in Sacramento. He has performed internationally in New Zealand, Croatia, Austria, and France, and locally as a soloist, accompanist, and member of ensembles including The Touchstones (popular music) and The CoolTones Big Band (jazz). Dwight Stone resides in Walnut Creek and serves as Minister of Music and Worship at Trinity Lutheran Church in Pleasanton. His compositions, arrangements, and performances continue to inspire singers, congregations, and audiences alike. stonemusique.com