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Composers Apply here Laureate Gala Auditions Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall Accepting SCORES by living Composers Apply via GetAcceptd THIS IS A PRODUCTION PROJECT, performance fees apply Seven Laureate Gala Concerts at Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall Composers submit scores for consideration to be included in the program November 24, 2025, at 7:00pm November 25, 2025, at 7:00pm February 16, 2026, at 7:00pm February 19, 2026, at 7:00pm April 28, 2026, at 7:00pm June 28, 2026, at 1:00pm June 30, 2026, at 7:00pm The Gala concerts at Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall are video recorded View Consent Form Composers whose pieces are selected will receive: Memorabilia, including posters, certificates, and digital promotional materials A full-color concert brochure (digital and printed) Complimentary tickets to the event An invitation for an interview with Steve Robinson, world-renowned producer of classical music radio shows Professional photos from the concert Archival video of the concert (with usage restrictions) Letters of recommendation and other support (available upon request for grant applications, college admissions, and other programs/competitions) THIS IS A PRODUCTION PROJECT, performance fees apply Composers are invited to submit scores for consideration to be included in the program. Accepted works*: CHAMBER ORCHESTRA (18 PLAYERS) STRING QUARTET (to be performed by the Lehner Quartet of Bayberry String Quartet) SOLO INSTRUMENTS (with or without accompaniment) VOICE (with or without accompaniment) DUOS/TRIOS VARIOUS CHAMBER ENSEMBLES * Note: No prepared piano, percussion, or electronics Composers may only submit scores for which they own copyrights. It is the composer’s responsibility to ensure complete compliance with all relevant copyrights rules and regulations. By submitting the score, the composer acknowledges that the piece can be performed and broadcast publicly without any copyright-related charge or claim. THIS IS A PRODUCTION PROJECT, performance fees apply INTERVIEWS WITH STEVE ROBINSON Steve Robinson is an American radio manager, producer and executive producer. He has held senior management positions with numerous American radio stations, including WFMT and the WFMT Radio Network/Chicago, WBUR/Boston, WGBH/Boston, WCRB/Boston, KPFA/Berkeley, WBGO/Newark, Vermont Public Radio and Nebraska Public Radio Network.org. Robinson served as general manager of the statewide Nebraska Public Radio Network (1990-2000) and WFMT and the WFMT Radio Network from 2000 until October 2016. A 50-year radio veteran, he has produced programs ranging from classical music documentaries to public affairs programs and has directed over 100 on-air pledge drives. In 1984, he co-founded AIR, the Association of Independents in Radio, a service organization to assist independent radio producers in the United States. Robinson wrote AIR’s first two successful grants from the New York State Council on the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts. James Adler Audience Favorite AWARD $250 Piano and Composition "It is very important to have the audience participate in this competition! It engages the listener and encourages our wonderfully talented contestants. I am delighted to co-found the James Adler Audience Favorite Award for the Sound Espressivo Global Music Competition. Sit back, listen, enjoy -- and please vote!" ~James Adler, Pianist and Composer Photo: Frank Gimpaya iClassical Academy AWARDS iClassical Academy provides Recognition Awards to Winners and Participants of Carnegie Gala Auditions We believe that anyone, at any time, should have access to the wonderfully beautiful world of music Our mission is to provide new generations of musicians, from any part of the world, the possibility to improve their skills and enjoy a wide audience iClassical Academy is based in Netherland/Italy International Panel of Judges Judges provide feedback to all Composers who submit a score, either as written comments, or during a virtual session by arrangement. To learn more about the Judges, and to see their bios click here Fees* Application fee $75 per score submission. Composers may submit multiple compositions for consideration Live Audition requirement is waived for Composers Performance/production costs (if selected to perform at the Gala) depend on the type of presentation and the length of performance segment. Orchestral composition fee includes two rehearsals (recorded & broadcast) and performance, in addition to services listed above. This is a production project, performance fees apply. Inquire before applying! Send inquiries regarding current season's performance costs to se.support@soundespressivo.com

What kind of prizes can you win? Learn more here about Sound Espressivo, the first online LIVE streaming Competition for classical musicians of all ages. Contestants and judges focus on unique artistry of every performer, awarding prizes offered by music management companies. Be discovered! Get promoted! Prizes are offered by companies which advance careers and present performance opportunities to classical musicians of all ages, instruments, and voice!* *Prizes are awarded at the sole discretion of the companies and are not guaranteed by the organizers of the Competition SEC-2021 does not offer cash awards Virtual Concert Halls is an online producer specializing in live broadcasting, streaming, and distance recording of musicians and music events. We produce and stream over the Internet individual artists' programs, concerts, festivals, recitals, presentations Virtual Concert Halls sponsors Performance Awards: Each Laureate will perform a solo recital. Each Winner will participate in concerts. Scholarship to attend the Seminar For Advanced Pianists* *(in person or virtually as circumstances permit) Two Scholarship for any instrumentalists to take part in immersive cultural tour in Europe June 4-14 2022 Munich-Fussen-Insbruck-Liechtenstein-Zurich Details TBC Two Scholarships for Pianists Masterclasses with professors in one of the leading music institutions in Germany Performance opportunity in one of the castles/venues (again, details TBC) Dedicated cultural tour/itinerary that involves visits to various cultural sites, concerts and/or opera theatres For a glimpse of how it was in 2019, visit this link Fifteen Minutes of Fame is 15 one-minute works by different composers written for a specific performer or ensemble. Fifteen Minutes of Fame gives a variety of new music by living composers to audiences hungry to hear what is being created in today's music scene. " ...the 15 Minutes of Fame project of Vox Novus is a godsend. It organizes competitions whereby ensembles commission worldwide calls for submissions of approximately one-minute pieces, and then select their 15 favorites for premieres. The players, themselves emerging and without the funds for a traditional commission fee, get original works to present, while the likewise emerging composers get a chance for exposure and a premiere..." - Seth Gilman, NY Music Culture Examiner Proudly offering a scholarship to a promising cellist, to attend masterclasses with Dr. Anzél Gerber at the Wiener Musikseminar in Vienna, Austria WIENER MUSIKSEMINAR -International master classes in Vienna, Austria. The Wiener Musikseminar has, since its founding in 1970, committed itself to convey a piece of music history to young artists from around the world Vienna as the cultural centre of classical music is a fertile ground for this purpose. Apart from the international master classes, participants will have the opportunity to perform in a concert. To learn more go to www.musikseminar.at Recognition Award iClassical Academy offers Online High-Quality Masterclasses and Courses Violin, Cello, Piano, Conducting, Music & Career and many more. Our mission is to provide worldwide any generation of musicians the possibility to improve their skills online, to enjoy a vast community of renowned conservatory teachers and to learn from online lessons recorded with the best of modern technologies iClassical Academy sponsors Recognition Awards to all contestants, regardless of how far they advance in the competition Five Awards Message from Clive Moore, CEO of Fan4Me Studio Nature Studio Nature presents all musical artists, sound artists, and spoken word artists around the world . A unique opportunity to have your songs/sound-pieces played and video; documented in the Finnish nature scenery. We also make music videos and nature footage, created with your specifications and wishes! Happy to consider offering a full scholarship to our 2021 Festival The Next Festival of Emerging Artists is an immersive experience for the modern string player, composer, and choreographer. It provides a comprehensive approach to entrepreneurial career-building, contemporary music performance, and intensive, personalized artistic development. “The spirit of the place is warm, friendly, informal, yet serious and reminds us why we make music together. There was time to ponder and work on every nuance, a rarity these days.” –Pierre Jalbert, composer “It is extremely rare to find a festival that fosters an environment of hard work and camaraderie while at the same time making contemporary music its primary focus. The Next Festival is an extraordinary home for new music and I encourage all open minded students to come and explore what the future holds!” –Jeffrey Zeigler, cellist “An ideal wellspring for artistic collaboration.” –Derek Bermel, composer “A sheer joy!” –Jennifer Koh, violinist Vox Novus is awarding a winning musician its services to organize and administer its Fifteen Minutes of Fame project for an online performance and interview in conjunction with Virtual Concert Halls. Bel Cantanti, an opera company, under the direction of Dr. Katerina Souvorova, was formed in 2003 with the express purpose of giving performance opportunities to local, operatic talent. Its members consist of young opera professionals, whose collective performance experiences include fully staged operatic productions in different venues around the country and abroad. The Fearless Artist Mastermind Full Scholarship for the 6-months Career development program Learn to manage your own success! The Fearless Artist Mastermind is pleased to offer a prize (valued at over €600) of a 6-month membership to their monthly career development program for musicians, as well as monthly 45-minute 1-1 coaching sessions for the prizewinner. This program offers structure, support and ultimately acceleration in the artist's career as they learn business and real world skills to position themselves for future opportunities as thriving musicians. Two Full Cello Scholarships (each is worth ca. $500) Online Summer Cello Master Classes to be awarded to the best cello finalists The 3rd WALTHAM FOREST CELLO FEST 2021 in London / CELLO ACADEMY 6ème BACH FESTIVAL GERS 2021 - BFG COURS DE MUSIQUE D'ÉTÉ EN LIGNE dPhoto Studio dPhoto Studio will create an artistic video portrait for the chosen winner: a 10-seconds professional video trailer dPhoto Studio specializes in photo and video production and motion graphic animations for web, commercial and private projects Drama Queen Graphics helps performing and visual arts groups engage with their audiences through eye-catching graphic design and branding solutions that stand out and demand attention. Entrada is an online video library that helps pianists achieve three-dimensional, whole-body piano technique, including for effortless Arpeggios, Trills, Tremolos, Scales, Octaves, and Repeated Chords. Entrada Teachers report higher levels of confidence and achievement for themselves and their students! Virtual Concert Halls and American Fine Arts Festival Performance Awards Best Instrumental Performer : Appearance with a European Orchestra (TBD) during summer-fall season of 2021 (one prize will be awarded to the most overall qualified winner) Carnegie Hall Weill Recital Hall Awards Four awards : Performance at American Arts Festival Winners Recitals Carnegie Hall Weill Recital Hall in June, 2022 Best Voice : Performance at Carnegie Hall Weill Recital Hall in the Fall 2022, presented at the Golden Voice concert Scholarship Award $500 For participation in summer programs presented by American Fine Arts Festival in Europe during summer 2022 Professional Engagement Award The winner will be offered an opportunity to be featured in GROUPMUSE exclusive Virtual Spotlight Concert Advertised throughout the entire Groupmuse network Winner will receive free live-streaming technical training and musician onboarding assistance via the Groupmuse platform and beyond Groupmuse is an online classical music platform and community of over 150,000 people that has facilitated 6,000+ chamber music house concerts, and over 300 virtual concerts since the COVID era Music2Meeting the first international artist management agency dedicated to bringing world-class musicians directly into the virtual workplace Lena Khandros Music Business Entrepreneur, Producer, Founder & CEO at Momentum Artists Management and Music2Meeting.com

Learn about the competition categories of Awards for Sound Espressivo, the online LIVE streaming competition for classical musicians of all ages. Contestants and judges focus on unique artistry of every performer, awarding prizes offered by music management companies. SEC-2021 does not offer cash awards Where will you shine? 9 Special Artistic Awards Program Prepare a collection of music with a message and express yourself through dedicating to a theme! Learn more Miniature Present a small but highly impressive piece of music in the most magical way! Learn more Innovative Find ways to express music that's never been heard before and charms everyone away! Learn more Swift Showoff the incredible speeds and blow us away with your crisp playing! Learn more Virtuosity Impress with your technique and astonish with your thrilling spark! Learn more Lyrical Allure with your expression and emotional delivery of the music! Learn more Ambassador Conquer the attention of your audience by embodying the role of an advocate of music by sharing your passion in creative ways. Learn more Profound Reveal the depth and hidden meanings with your well thought-out expression! Learn more Academic Deliver the most genuine performance that would embody the composer and take us to their world! Learn more Sign Up

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

Sound Espressivo helps UNICEF provide help to children in Ukraine. SEC is the first online LIVE streaming Competition for musicians of all ages. Contestants and judges focus on unique artistry of every performer, awarding prizes offered by music management companies. Donate to UNICEF Follow us on socials! Big thank you to all supporters! We are extremely grateful everyone who donated funds, produced the event, helped get the public aware and informed. The Fundraiser was a great tribute to human empathy and collaboration. This campaign is now closed CHICAGO’S UKRAINIAN INSTITUTE FOR MODERN ART PARTNERS WITH VIRTUAL CONCERT HALLS TO HOST A LIVE GLOBAL INTERNET BROADCAST TO BENEFIT UNICEF USA All Funds Raised will Support Emergency and Humanitarian Aid for Ukrainian Families and Children Suffering from the Devastation of War Wednesday, April 13, 2022 6:00am-11:59pm EST/EDT Chicago -- On April 13, 2022, the Ukrainian Institute for Modern Art (UIMA) is partnering with Virtual Concert Halls (VCHS) , a Virginia-based ITV producer, to host a global online fundraising effort to benefit UNICEF USA, who are committed to providing emergency aid to families and children in Ukraine. The event will stream to multiple social media platforms including YouTube, Facebook, Twitch and LinkedIn. Virtual Concert Halls will take the 18-hour live Internet Web stream from 5:00 a.m. to 11 p.m. CT from the Institute’s gallery and distribute it live to major social media platforms. Virtual Concert Halls streams live events from all over the world and are experts at streaming simultaneously on multiple social media platforms. Throughout the broadcast, news anchors will interview a wide variety of people who are close to the situation in Ukraine including historians, scholars, lawmakers, young Ukrainian refugees who recently arrived in Chicago, among others. UNICEF has been in Ukraine for 25 years—and it is on the ground now, delivering safe water, health and hygiene supplies, blankets, warm clothes and psycho-social care to children and their families. Security is especially crucial during this time when many children and youth are separated from their families which leaves them in indescribably vulnerable. Donations are accepted any time before, during, and after the live stream. According to a recent statement by UNICEF USA, two million children have now been forced to flee Ukraine, as the war rages on. “The situation inside Ukraine is spiraling,” said UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell. “As the number of children fleeing their homes continues to climb, we must remember that every single one of them needs protection, education, safety and support.” In a joint statement, Motria Melnyk, President of the Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art and Marta Farion, Vice President said, "The war in Ukraine is breaking all of our hearts and so the opportunity to make our facility the staging area for this amazing fundraising effort was enthusiastically welcomed by our board and staff." In addition to her work at the Ukrainian Institute, Farion is also the president of the Kyiv-Mohyla Foundation of America. Virtual Concert Halls co-founder, Anna Ouspenskaya, said, “We are deeply touched and honored to be included in this project. People on our team come from different continents and backgrounds, but many of us share one thing in common: we carry scars and pains of being raised in the countries of the former Soviet bloc, or have relatives who endured the horrors of that terrible regime. Working on this project is the least we can do for Ukrainians who are enduring unimaginable pain. My colleagues at VCHS and I myself are putting our whole hearts into this effort.” HELPING UNICEF IN UKRAINE Internet Broadcast is spearheaded by veteran public radio broadcaster, Steve Robinson, President of New Media Productions. In 2003 for the victims of the tsunami and again in 2010 for victims of the earthquake in Haiti, Steve organized all-day fundraisers in involving virtually all Chicago television and radio stations that each raised $3 million in humanitarian assistance. “I hope this 18-hour continuous stream raises millions of dollars for UNICEF in this emergency,” Robinson said. ABOUT UNICEF: The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) works in more than 190 countries and territories to pursue a more equitable world for every child. UNICEF has helped save more children’s lives than any other humanitarian organization, by providing health care and immunizations, safe water and sanitation, nutrition, education, emergency relief and more. UNICEF USA advances the global mission of UNICEF by rallying the American public to support the world’s most vulnerable children. Together, we are working toward a world that upholds the rights of all children and helps every child thrive. For more information, visit www.unicefusa.org. VIRTUAL CONCERT HALLS Virtual Concert Halls (VCH) is Virginia-based independent live Internet TV broadcaster and Production Company which focuses its programming on education and music.  Founded in 2020, VCHS quickly gained international recognition as a leading expert in live ITV and hybrid live streaming of complex broadcasts with global reach.  Since launching 18 months ago VCHS earned its extensive experience in live ITV through production of over 600 live broadcasts with leading music, arts, educational organizations, and world class performers from every continent. VCH are experts in reaching out with the message of beauty, collaboration, love, and peace, to international communities through social networks and global video platforms. THE UKRAINIAN INSTITUTE OF MODERN ART: The Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art (UIMA) preserves and promotes contemporary art as a shared expression of the Ukrainian and American experience. UIMA develops, utilizes and encourages artistic talent through exhibitions, concerts, readings, lectures and films to serve the cultural needs of our community and city, and thereby strengthen cultural understanding and diversity. For more information contact: Steve Robinson at 312-545-3535 steve@newmediaproduct.com or Joanie Bayhack jebayhack@gmail.com

Profound? Find out here! Sound Espressivo is the first online LIVE streaming Competition for classical musicians of all ages. Contestants and judges focus on unique artistry of every performer, awarding prizes offered by music management companies. profound Reveal the depth and hidden meanings with your well thought-out expression! In-Depth A philosophical and profound understanding and delivery of music can bring out some really moving, emotionally personal and jarring qualities. Profound playing can be heard many times over and make us feel as if we never get enough because there's always more to understand and feel. General Criteria Unique Tempo Choice - tapping into a thorough and un-rushed interpretation isn't easy, and requires a particular approach to tempo in relation to the music to really deliver. Use of Silence - profound playing requires valuing sound and silence equally and using silence as a major part of expression with the goal to captivate and draw in the listener. Tone and Color - choice of tone type and colors can enhance and enrich the expression of the music. Hypnotizing Presence - atmosphere and mood embracing movement and appearance can put the audience in the right aspect for receiving the depth of the music you are trying to convey.

Sign up for you PUBLIC Nominations Round 1. We will confirm your date/time by email which you provided on your Application Form 2. We will send you a link to log into our Studio for your audition 3. Check your computer and your Internet connection 4. Get ready to compete! Prepare your laptop and log into the Broadcast Studio Check "Prepare to Stream" and "Prepare your Space" instructions! Our audio and video Producers will meet you in the Broadcast Green Room, for your tech check session. We will rehearse your appearance in the Green Room, before your appear on the Broadcast. We will help you sound and look your best! Our staff will help you move from Green Room to our Backstage. You will be greeted by our Broadcast Host. You will meet the Panel of Judges. You will hear their feedback immediately after your performance. Finalists will be announced after your session After your Nominations session will end, the Judges will deliberate. During Judges' deliberations you will participate in the interviews. Our Host will ask you and other contestants questions. We will invite your teacher/representative of your school, to participate in the interviews. If you need help with English please let us know ahead of time. Judges will announce their decision and name the Finalists

< Back Previous New Jersey Guitar Orchestra Next New Jersey Guitar Orchestra Gala at Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall June 30, 2025 WATCH VIDEO The NJGO is an elite ensemble of classical guitarists of various backgrounds, from amateurs to professional guitarists and teachers. The NJGO is active during the Fall and Spring semester sessions each year. Our mission is to provide a space for personal expression, expand the artistic experience, and foster community by empowering people to create, perform, respond, and connect to all things GUITAR! Jayson Martinez Conductor Jayson Martinez is recognized as the first guitar major student in the history of the prestigious Arts High School in Newark NJ, the nation's first high school for the visual and performing arts. Now, as Director of Guitar Studies at his alma mater, Mr. Martinez has garnered countless educational awards, including winner of the Teacher of the Year Award in 2018-19 and nominee for the GRAMMY Music Educator’s Award. His students are continuously invited to perform in several prestigious venues across the country. This includes performing for Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona in Washington DC, NAfME All-National Festivals, and opening for Grammy Award duo Rodrigo y Gabriela. As a student, Jayson attended New Jersey City University, studying under Dr. Ana María Rosado, and earned degrees in Music Education (B.A.), Music Performance (M.Mus.), and Educational Supervision and Administration (M.EdLd.). He was a featured soloist who performed for many renowned classical guitarists, including Roland Dyens and William Kanengiser. Currently, Mr. Martinez serves as the New Jersey Music Educators Association (NJMEA) Chairman for Guitar Education, Director of the NJMEA Honors Guitar Ensemble, and National Association for Music Education (NAfME) Eastern Division Representative for the Council of Guitar Education. Mr. Martinez is also the Guitar Studies Adjunct Professor at Kean University. An established classical guitarist, Mr. Martinez served as the concertmaster for the renowned New York City Classical Guitar Orchestra for over a decade. He is featured in podcasts for Bill Swick’s “Guitarists in the Classoom” series and for TopMusic.co. In 2021, Maestro Jayson Martinez founded the New Jersey Guitar Orchestra (NJGO), where he also serves as conductor. In 2022, the NJGO was featured in NYC Merkin Hall, performing with the United States Guitar Orchestra. Staying true to his roots, he is the owner of Tremolo Music Studio in Clifton NJ, where he teaches music education to aspiring musicians of all ages. Musicians Andrew Jaworski Andrew is a professional teacher, musician, recording engineer, and producer. He graduated from The Hartt School in 2008 with a degree in Music Production and Technology, and has been working for various studios and production companies ever since. In 2008, Andrew started his own music company, Sites and Sounds Productions LLC, that specializes in mobile recording and CD duplication for middle- and high-school music concerts. As a performing classical and rock guitarist, he also teaches lessons and works part-time as a high-school marching band faculty member. At Montclair State University, Andrew earned a Master of Arts in Teaching degree in order to help cultivate a deep respect and love for sound and music. Andrew is section leader two in the NJGO. Cem Yigit Cem has been playing guitar with passion since the mid-1980s, developing a deep appreciation for both classical and flamenco styles through years of solo practice. His musical interests extend beyond performance into the mathematics of music, including computer-aided harmonization and eastern musical tonal systems. Cem especially enjoys adapting eastern folk music to classical guitar, blending tradition with innovation. He is excited to join the New Jersey Guitar Orchestra (NJGO) this season as a section one member. Chris Joseph Christopher Joseph is a classical guitarist based out of Brooklyn New York. He has studied with Francisco Roldan at NJCU as well as taken lessons from Dr. Ana Maria Rosado and Dr. Joao Luiz Rezende Lopes. He himself has and still plays for special events such as luncheons, weddings and churches. He was a member of Orpheus Guitar Trio and Quintero Paisano. With the former he has had a Carnegie debut with multiple departments from NJCU and the latter he has recorded some music for Guitar Quintet. Chris is also the founder and owner of ECGNentertainment which is media project meant to propel the emerging classical guitarists into the professional music world. Chris is an avid tik-tokker who is constantly sharing music and new things he is learning and when away from music you can find him hanging with friends, playing chess or pool either locally or in online forums. He is a very down to earth and upbeat person who simply wants classical guitar to be even more recognized than it was yesterday. Christopher Perez Chris is a New Jersey native and a classical guitarist, who has been playing guitar since the age of 16. He began playing classical guitar after discovering and falling in love with the music of Francisco Tárrega. He is also passionate about studying the works of Heitor Villa-Lobos, Agustín Barrios, and Frederic Chopin. He is honored to be playing for section one of the New Jersey Guitar Orchestra. Chris is also a certified civil trial attorney and a partner and co-founder of a vibrant law practice. Chris is an alumni of Rutgers University, where he obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in English and a Doctorate in Law. Chris is happily married and the proud father of three beautiful children. Crystal Gaynor Crystal Gaynor, singer/songwriter, acoustic and classical guitarist and a self proclaimed “Late in Life Student of the 6 Stings”.As a vocalist, Crystal has recorded and performed background vocals with George Clinton /Parliament Funkadelic, Paul Schaffer of the David Lettermen Show, and many others. While serving in the United StateAir Force, Crystal performed with the USAF touring performance ensemble,“Tops in Blue.” While living in Detroit, by day Crystal worked for BMG Distribution, one of the music industries largest music distributors. And by night, as a vocalist, Crystal recorded and performed on the Techno House and Rock Music circuit with various Detroit artists. Wanting to become a self accompanied vocalist, in 2018, Crystal began her guitar journey, with a local street busker. Wanting to explore the guitar more, in 2020, Crystal enrolled in the on-line guitar program, at Berklee College of Music and received her certificate in Advance Guitar in 2022. Soon after, Crystal became an active student at the Classical Guitar Corner Academy (CGCA) and Tony’s Acoustic Challenge (TAC). Diego Gallardo Diego is a graduate of the Kean Conservatory of Music, holding a B.A. in Music Education, and has been a high school music teacher since 2010. His students have gone on to study at schools such as University of the Arts, Mason Gross School of Music, William Paterson University, Kean University, Montclair State University, New England Conservatory, as well as becoming well regarded area musicians. He has performed at such venues as NJPAC, Merkin Hall, Carnegie Hall, and many others. He serves as a section two guitarist for the NJGO. Dr. Loren Fortna Educator, performer, and composer Dr. Loren C. Fortna has performed from New Jersey to Vancouver, British Columbia as a soloist, accompanist, ensemble member, and conductor. He holds a B.A. in Music Theoretical Studies, a M.M., an A.D., and a D.M.A in Classical Guitar Performance. He earned these degrees under the tutelage of several esteemed guitarists, including Dennis Cinelli, Stephen Aron, and Julian Gray. A New Jersey Music Educator since 2001, Loren was recognized as the District Teacher of the Year for the 2008-2009 school year in the Springfield Public School District. He was an adjunct professor and faculty advisor at Montclair State University from 2009 - 2014 and is currently the vocal music teacher at the Dionne Warwick Institute in East Orange, NJ. Loren facilitated numerous presentations on a range of topics such as music performance anxiety, music-rich writing activities, and techniques on composing for guitar. He also adjudicates for several state music education organizations. Dr. John Asmuth New Jersey native Dr. John Asmuth is an amateur player who picked up the classical guitar at twelve years old, taking private lessons for a time with Alice Artzt and recently with Phil Circle. He enjoys performing not only as a soloist and with Section 3 of NJGO, but also composing and transcribing music.John holds a Ph.D. in Computer Science from Rutgers University, and currently works as a software engineer in Big Tech (TM). He lives in Verona, NJ with his wife, Stephanie, and two boys, Trent and Gavin. skelterjohn.github.io skelterjohn/guitar guitar scores composed and/or arranged by skelterjohn Dr. Martin Brounstein Dr. Martin Brounstein is the Board President of Montclair Early Music. He is a retired attorney specializing in international regulatory compliance with pharmaceutical manufacturing and clinical research regulations. Martin has been playing guitar since the mid 1950s, and has been continuously teaching jazz, pop and classical guitar for several decades. As a member of the New Jersey, New York and Mid-Hudson Classical Guitar Societies, he has been instrumental in providing free recitals to communities throughout the tri-state area. Dr. Brounstein received a Ph.D. in British Renaissance literature while simultaneously earning his Juris Doctor. Further, he holds several high black belts in three different martial arts disciplines and provides free classes in women's self defense. Martin is currently on the board of directors and regularly featured in the Bloomfield Mandolin Orchestra and plays in the New Jersey Guitar Orchestra in section three. Dr. Steve Sabet Dr. Steven Sabet is a music teacher at the Thomas Jefferson Arts Academy where he teaches guitar and music technology. He is also adjunct professor at Kean University and has taught at Rutgers where he received a Doctorate in Music Education. His doctoral research was published by the Journal of Popular Music Education. Sabet’s guitar work can be heard on several studio albums on platforms like Apple Music and Spotify. He studied guitar at The Hartt School and Florida State University before becoming a teacher and performer. Dr. Sabet serves as concertmaster for the NJGO. Janette Beham Janette Beham, a classical guitarist with the New York City Guitar Orchestra since 2016, performed at Zankel Hall at Carnegie Hall in the Centennial Celebration of the Aaron Shearer Foundation in 2019 conducted by Jayson Sagebiel; she also played with the New Jersey Guitar Orchestra in 2024 conducted by Jayson Martinez. She performed with the New York City Guitar Orchestra for the New Focus Recording, "Spectra: New Music for Guitar Orchestra," released in 2024, which includes How Slowly, All of a Sudden by composer and former touring Nine Inch Nails guitarist Joshua Eustis, in which she plays Guitar 2. Janette models for Terrifier franchise composer and former Marilyn Manson guitarist Paul Wiley on sensoryrecordings.com; she is currently studying with João Luiz. Jeff Wilt Jeff Wilt has played guitar since the early 1960’s when his uncle (an organist) took note of his interest in Channel 13’s presentations of classical guitar legend Andres Segovia’s “Masterclass” television series and purchased Jeff’s first guitar. His parents finally relented and engaged a teacher in the mid-60’s after listening to Jeff banging on a guitar he couldn’t even tune for two years! His early studies tended toward jazz. He lost interest as the jazz became progressively more…well, progressive! After not playing during college, Jeff returned to guitar around 1980 and taught himself classical guitar. As an adult, Jeff has relied on direction provided by a small army of accomplished classical guitarist friends, as well as classes with international concert guitarists at the annual convention of the Guitar Foundation of America. Now retired from the life insurance industry where he was in regional sales management for 35 years, Jeff plays in the New York City Guitar Orchestra and in several small ensembles with friends in addition to performing with the New Jersey Guitar Orchestra. He is on the Board of Directors of the New York City Classical Guitar Society. He is married to Lori Wilt with three adult children, Michala, Carmine and Kathleen. Jeff is also a lifelong motorcyclist and enjoys daily walks with Holly, the Golden Retriever. He is section leader three of the NJGO. Jo Lucev During high school, Jo had the incredible opportunity to be part of the guitar ensemble program at Franklin High School. Under the direction of Patrick Callahan, Jo quickly developing a passion for guitar. This experience not only deepened Jo’s love for guitar and music, but also inspired Jo to pursue a degree in music education. Jo is thrilled to continue a musical journey in college and aims to combine a passion for guitar with a dedication to teaching and inspiring future musicians. Jonathan Cruz Jonathan has been teaching since 2003. He is a multi-instrumentalist who plays and performs Guitar, Bass, Drums, Piano, and Ukulele. Jonathan has attended The Berklee College of Music for sessions, Rutgers for Music Theory and Composition, William Paterson for Music Education and Jazz Performance. He has worked with The Jazz Institute receiving an award for excellence, and studied at NJPAC for Jazz, also honoring him with an award. Jordyn Gallagher Jordyn Gallagher first started playing playing guitar at the age of 8. Jordyn went on to study classical guitar at The College of New Jersey, graduating with a Bachelor of Music in Instrumental Music Education, specializing in classical guitar, and a secondary focus on clarinet. Since then, Jordyn has been teaching in the Metuchen school district in New Jersey. Presently, she serves as the director of the 4th, 5th, and 6th-grade orchestras, as well as taking on the roles of kindergarten general music teacher and guitar instructor. Patrick Callahan Patrick Callahan has been involved as a coach and adjudicator for NJMEA Honors Guitar Ensemble since its inception and is excited to be performing with NJGO this season as a section four member. Patrick is a passionate educator and has run the classical guitar program at Franklin High School in Somerset, NJ for close to a decade. In addition to performing with the NJGO, he is an active performer for pit orchestras for musical theatre. Rick Florio Rick is an amateur classical guitarist and is a member of the NJ Classical Guitar Society. He plays in various small ensembles in addition to the NJGO, where he serves as a section one player. Rick is a project manger working in the pharmaceutical industry space. He resides with his wife Joann in Hillsborough and recently became grandparents for the second time. Ryan Bagg Ryan is a music teacher at a public school in Queens where he incorporates guitar, ukulele, and modern band in the 5th through 8th grade curriculum. Currently Ryan is taking a sabbatical from teaching to study classical guitar performance at Hunter College. Ryan started playing guitar at 13 and played in some bands and orchestras through the years. In 2014, Ryan met his life and songwriting partner, Teresa, at a ukulele meetup. Ryan and Teresa now have two children and a family YouTube channel called Paper Bagg Band where they share their music for kids. Sandy Meltzer Sandy Meltzer began her career as a French Horn player. By the age of 12 she was already a member of the Westchester Philharmonic and the Westchester Symphony. She went on to study at Manhattan School of Music where she earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees and subsequently taught in the pre-college division there for 12 years. During this time, she was an active freelancer in the New York metropolitan area performing in groups such as the Julius Grossman Orchestra, American Chamber Opera Company, the National Orchestral Association and the Village Chamber Orchestra as well as numerous regional theater companies, occasional subbing on Broadway and one national tour. She was also a featured soloist with the Village Chamber Orchestra and the Bloomingdale House of Music Chamber Orchestra. By her late-30’s, she decided she was ready for a career change and decided to go back to school to become a teacher. Most of her teaching career was spent at the Academies @ Englewood, a program connected with Dwight Morrow High School. While there, she was able to grow creatively and directed every group on campus, from Concert Band and Chorus to Jazz Band and an award-winning A Cappella group as well as directing the annual school musical. She also implemented a guitar program, finally being able to reach the students who otherwise were not involved with music on campus. She is a self-taught classical guitarist and was happy to share this passion with her students. Since retiring from teaching in 2021, she has taken the opportunity to hone her skills as a classical guitarist. She joined 2 groups in this capacity, the NJGO as well as the Montclair Early Music Society where she was recently appointed Assistant Music Director. She feels it is a true privilege to perform with the extremely talented members of the NJGO as a member of section four. Sara Overholt Sara Overholt, Ph.D., classical guitarist and music theorist, holds degrees from Yale University (student of Ben Verdery), UC, Santa Barbara, and CSU, Chico (Richard Savino). Additional doctoral work done at the Sorbonne, Paris on a Mellon grant, and at the University of Cologne, Germany as a Fulbright Scholar. Mostly through performing Dr. Overholt has travelled to over 80 countries and is the founder of the classical guitar program at Hunter College, CUNY in Manhattan, where she is a professor of classical guitar performance, coaches chamber music, and is the undergraduate advisor to the music minor program. Dr. Overholt's sole authored book, "Stockhausen's Musical Shapes: How a Master Composer Moves Sound" is internationally available, and she is a returning teacher for the renowned annual New York Guitar Seminar. Thomas Crown Guitarist Thomas Crown stating playing classical Guitar in 2017. Joined the Classical Guitar Corner Academy in June of 2023 and is currently enrolled. Thomas has also written pieces for the classical guitar, and is part of the Classical Guitar Society of New York’s and New Jersey Guitar Orchestra.

< Back Modern Classics Vol. 1 This captivating series of albums celebrates the dynamic intersection of classical music’s timeless artistry and the bold creativity of contemporary composers. Featuring performances by some of today’s most accomplished classical musicians, each album presents an exquisite blend of masterful interpretation and fresh, innovative compositions. From intimate string quartets to grand orchestral works and concertos, these albums provide a unique platform for emerging voices in classical composition, offering listeners a journey through both familiar traditions and unexplored musical landscapes Listen Featured Works: William Toutant: Quarantine Quartet Peter Dickson Lopez: MISE-EN Series II, Episode I Noam Faingold: Where Our Voices Hide When We Must Speak Leopold Brauneiss: De natura silentii The Lehner Quartet brings vibrant energy and impeccable precision to our 1st New Classics album, a bold collection of brand-new string quartets that redefine the boundaries of chamber music. Each composition, meticulously crafted by rising contemporary composers, offers a fresh perspective on the timeless string quartet format. From the hauntingly beautiful to the explosively rhythmic, these pieces explore a wide range of emotions and soundscapes, showcasing the Lehner Quartet’s mastery and versatility. This album is a thrilling testament to the future of classical music, where tradition meets innovation in every note. To listen on audio platforms (Spotify, Amazon, Apple, YouTubeMusic, Deezer) click on this link: https://bfan.link/modern-classics-vol-1-1 Composers' bios: William Toutant Born in Worcester, Massachusetts. He received his BA and MA from The George Washington University and his Ph.D. in music theory and composition from Michigan State University. He joined the music faculty of California State University, Northridge in 1975. During the next 38 years he not only taught in the Department of Music, but he also served in a variety of administrative positions including Dean of the Mike Curb College of Arts, Media, and Communication. For eighteen years wrote and hosted the weekly radio program, “The KCSN Opera House.” He became Professor Emeritus in May 2013. His music is available on North/South, Capstone, Centaur, Phasma, Ariel and Navona records. He lives in Los Angeles with his wife, Ligia Toutant. Peter Dickson Lopez As an internationally performed composer, Lopez traces his musical roots to a broad range of influences from his tenure as a graduate student at the University of California at Berkeley (USA), as a Tanglewood (USA) Fellowship Composer, and as recipient of the George Ladd Prix de Paris (1976-78). World premieres of recent works have been performed by the Sydney Contemporary Orchestra in Sydney, Australia (2017, 2018), the Ensemble MISE-EN in Seoul, South Korea (2018), and the Lviv Philharmonic Society in Lviv, Ukraine (2022). Navona Records released a recent work of Lopez, MISE-EN Series II Episode I for Amplified String Quartet and Acousmatic Sound, in July 2023. Noam Faingold Composer Noam Faingold (b. 1984) is passionate about composing and collaborating in traditional, multi-disciplinary, and cross-genre projects. Faingold’s music has been praised as "...lyrical...", "...exhilarating...", and "...a tour-de-force of Jazz melded with Classical" by The New York Times, The BBC, and Downbeat Magazine, among others. Highlights include works composed for Leilehua Lanzelotti (Pulitzer Prize finalist), cellist Inbal Segev (Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center), Oboist Rob Botti (New York Philharmonic), and violinists Domenic Salerni (Attacca Quartet), Jesse Mills (Horszowski Trio), and Itamar Zorman (Lysander Trio), and the Appalachian Chamber Music Festival, performances by chamber ensembles the Argus Quartet, PubliQUARTET, and Fidelio Trio, pianists Michael Brown (CMS) and Peter Dugan (Host of NPR’s From the Top), and arrangements for the London Symphony Orchestra, OK Mozart, and Pentatone Records. Leopold Brauneiss An Austrian composer, musicologist and teacher, based in Vienna. He studied at the University of Vienna (musicology) and the University of Music and Performing Arts (music education, piano, composition with Heinz Kratochwl) and received his doctorate in music in 1988. From 1990 to 2010 he has thought music theory at the J.M.-Hauer conservatory Wiener Neustadt, since 2004 he has been lecturer for harmony and counterpoint at the University of Vienna, since 2006 he has held a lectureship in harmony, counterpoint and instrumentation at the Hochschule für Musik und Theater „Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy“ Leipzig, The main field of his musicological research is the so called Tintinnabuli Style of Arvo Pärt, whom he has known personally for over 20 years. His works have been performed by renown artists such as Gidon Kremer, ensembles like Kremerata Baltica and orchestras like Tonkuenstlerorchester Niederoesterreich and have been presented at prestigious festivals like Wien Modern and Kammermusikfestival Lockenhaus. Published by Cicerone Music and Art (CiMA) Previous Next

< Back Peter Askim Double Bass/Conductor Learn More Videos About COMPOSER Called a “Modern Master” by The Strad , Peter Askim’s works have been performed by the Tokyo Symphony Orchestra, the Honolulu Symphony, Cantus Ansambl Zagreb, and the American Viola Society, as well as by performers such as ETHEL, the Aizuri Quartet, and cellist Jeffrey Zeigler. CONDUCTOR As a conductor, Peter Askim has led the American Composers Orchestra, Knoxville Symphony and Vermont Symphony, among others, and is known for innovative programming, championing the work of living composers and his advocacy of underrepresented voices in the concert hall. He has conducted premieres by Richard Danielpour, Nico Muhly, Aaron Jay Kernis, Christopher Theofanidis, Brett Dean, Jeff Scott, Aleksandra Vrebalov and led the American premiere of Florence Price’s Ethiopia’s Shadow in America. His work was featured on HBO and National Public Radio conducting Richard Thompson’s soundtrack for The Cold Blue, and he has conducted Knoxville Symphony, APROARTE Orchestra (Portugal) and collaborated with such artists as the Miró String Quartet, Matt Haimovitz, Vijay Iyer, Jeffrey Zeigler, Nadia Sirota, and Sō Percussion. THE NEXT FESTIVAL OF EMERGING ARTISTS Peter Askim is the founder and artistic director of The Next Festival of Emerging Artists , a festival dedicated to the next generation of performers, composers and choreographers. Founded in 2013, the festival structure encourages young artists, ages 20-30, to focus on artistic development, entrepreneurial career strategies and the music of living composers. It has been awarded grants by the Amphion Foundation, the ASCAP Foundation, and the Copland Fund for Music. RALEIGH CIVIC ORCHESTRAS With the Raleigh Civic Orchestras , Peter Askim has pioneered collaborative, multimedia concert events and has programmed a newly commissioned world premiere on every concert for the last five seasons, culminating in 20 for ’20 . The 20th world premiere will be performed in April 2020. He has pioneered multimedia and cross-disciplinary programs on sustainability and the environment, Martin Luther King, Jr.’s North Carolina “I Have A Dream” speech, the women’s suffrage movement, the centenary of the Russian Revolution, and “Our Voices” for virtual reality and orchestra by Aleksandra Vrebalov. Under his direction, the orchestras has received multiple grants from NewMusic USA. Previous Next

Connecting Young Musicians and Living Composers on a Journey of Discovery MUSIC FOR YOUTH MASTERS AND MASTERWORKS DEADLINE TO SUBMIT SCORES - NOVEMBER 30, 2023 ACCEPTING COMPOSITIONS WRITTEN FOR Piano SOLO Cello SOLO or with piano accompaniment Violin SOLO or with piano accompaniment Apply Open to Composers of All Ages Awards: Composers: Up to 3 scores will be selected for performance at the Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall on April 1, 2024 at the Laureates Gala (one composition for piano, one for violin, one for cello Performers: Up to 3 young performers (18 and under) will be selected to perform these compositions at Carnegie Hall. All performances are sponsored by Sound Espressivo, Progressive Musicians, and Virtual Concert Halls RULES Composers: no age limit. Performers: 18 and under 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 4 Hands are accepted Regulations Selected Artists will be invited to perform at Laureates Gala at Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall during 2024 - 25 Season Learn More about Past Laureate Galas at Carnegie Hall HERE Dates of 2023-24 Season Laureate Galas: November 21, 2023; April 1, 2024; April 4, 2024; July 1, 2024 Laureates Awards : ONE Laureate in a category Piano ONE Laureate in a category Voice ONE Winner in each Age Group in a category Piano TWO W inners in a category Voice Each Laureate will receive an opportunity to perform at the Weill recital Hall at Carnegie Hall OR $500. See Carnegie Gala page for more information Each Winner will receive a Masterclass with one of the SEC Judges ALL Finalists will receive a LiveStreaming for Classical Musicians" Seminar with VCHS Broadcast Engineers and Directors, prior to preforming in the Live Audition, at no additional charge LIVE Auditions January 13-14, 2024 Virtual Broadcast via Internet TV YouTube, Fb, LinkedIn, Twitter, Vimeo , other channels Categories Piano - Solo, Concerto, ensemble with piano Voice - Art Songs (Romances ), and Arias Voice - No Age Limit Piano - Age Groups: Under 10 11-18 College/Adult Fees Application/video pre-screening - $50 Live Audition (if selected ) - $100 Laureate Gala Performance Award Includes the following: Carnegie Hall Archival DIGITAL VIDEO of their performance (see Regulations for acceptable uses as per by Carnegie Hall rules) Medals; Certificates Full color brochure (digital and printed) Complimentary tickets Participate in an interview for media Photos Letters of recommendation and other support (provided upon request for applying for grants, colleges, other programs and competitions) Professional Portfolio packets available upon request All performers and their teachers will receive a certificate of merit Additional Prizes and performance opportunities may be awarded by the Judges. See Awards page Judges Vera Danchenko-Stern Learn More Avguste Antonov Learn More James Adler Learn More