YOUNG ARTIST STRING CONCERTO COMPETITION
Tow years ago, the WSO inaugurated its Young Artsits' String Concerto Competition, welcoming applicants from across the state. The competition was open to advanced string players (who have not graduated from high school) who were prepared to perform from memory at a conservatory level. The top prize was a performance as soloist for the May concert of the Waltham Symphony Orchestra.
The WSO is reorganizing its outreach program, including its Young Artist Concerto Competition.
Please, state tuned for more details on this year's plans for our Concerto Competition.
2015-16 WSO Young Artist Concerto Competition Winners
ABOUT THE COMPETITION
In this, the inaugural year of the Young Artsits' String Concerto Competition, the WSO proudly welcomed applicants from across the state. The competition was open to advanced string players (who have not graduated from high school) who were prepared to perform from memory at a conservatory level. Adjudicators of the competition could award up to three monetary scholarship prizes in the amounts of $500 (1st Prize), $300 (2nd Prize), and $200 (3rd Prize). The winner of the competition was also eligible to perform with the WSO during their May concert, pending the jury panel's approval.
Thank You
The WSO would like to thank all of this year's applicants. The committee enjoyed meeting and hearing each of you and wishes each of you success and joy as you continue your musical endeavors. The panel hopes to see and to hear each of you again in the future. The WSO would also like to thank the teachers and collaborative pianists who prepared this year's applicants, your dedication and efforts were reflected in the fine performances heard on audition day. And, lastly, the WSO extends a hearty thank you to parents and guardians of this year's applicants. Support for the arts begins at home, and it is your tireless support emotionally, musically, educationally, financially, and spiritually that is fostering the next generation of classical artists. A special thanks to The Washington Masonic Lodge (Lexington, MA) for their generous contribution to the scholarship program. Thank you.
2015-2016 Scholarship Recipients
1st Prize
Keila Wakao, Violin
Violinist Keila Wakao, aged 10, began study at the age of three with Mrs. J. Riggs. Developing rapidly, the late Joseph Silverstein accepted Keila as a student at the age of six. Subsequently she studied with Suzan Gessner and Eiichi Chijiiwa (2013, Orchestra de Paris, France). She currently studies with Donald Weilerstein, Julianne Lee, Anait Arutunian, Ying Xue, and Keisuke Wakao, receiving additional music instruction with Lail Davidson at the New England Conservatory Preparatory School. Despite her young age, Keila has proven herself as a serious, competitive violinist. At the age of seven, she won the Forte International Music Competition (New York, New York). This was followed by 1st place wins at the 8th Yokohama International Music Competition (Japan, 2014), and 1st place at the New York International Competition for Young Artists (New York, 2016). Most recently Ms. Wakako performed Mozart's Concerto in D Major, KV 211 and Meditation from Thais with the Metrowest Symphony Orchestra (2015). In her spare time, Keila enjoys reading, drawing, fashion design, and studying the Japanese language.
This year, the audition committee elected to award only the top prize. Thank you to all who participated.
