The Mid-Atlantic Symphony Orchestra (MSO) is pleased to announce the three finalists selected for the prestigious Elizabeth Loker International Concerto Competition (ELICC). These young musicians, chosen from around the world, will perform with the MSO on Sunday, March 23, 2025, at 3:00 PM at Todd Hall for the Performing Arts at Chesapeake College in Wye Mills, MD. The ELICC is quickly becoming one of the most distinguished competitions worldwide for young classical musicians aged 12 to 25.

The competition drew remarkable talent from across the U.S. and internationally, with applicants hailing from 27 states and countries including Australia, Canada, China, Croatia, Germany, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Russia. The finalists will each perform a concerto of their choice with the MSO, conducted by Music Director Michael Repper, in front of a distinguished panel of judges. What sets the ELICC apart is the unique opportunity for finalists to perform with a full orchestra, as opposed to the typical piano accompaniment provided in most competitions. This offers an unparalleled experience for these young musicians, many of whom will be performing as soloists with a full orchestra for the first time.

The three finalists vying for top honors are:

●     Christopher Chung, Bassoon (New York City), performing Ciranda das Sete Notas by Heitor Villa-Lobos

●     Jonah Kwek, Piano (Singapore), performing Piano Concerto No. 1 in B-flat minor, Op. 23 by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky

●     Britton-René Alyssa Collins, Marimba (New York City), performing Concerto for Marimba by Sergei Golovko

Each of these artists brings their own unique style and passion to the stage, having built impressive resumes and garnered accolades across international music circuits.

MSO’s Music Director Michael Repper is eager to conduct the finalists, bringing his youthful dynamism to the concert. "I am deeply excited to work with these extraordinary young musicians," Repper said. "The energy and talent they bring to the stage will be a powerful reminder of the next generation of classical performers."

The Mid-Atlantic Symphony Orchestra invites music enthusiasts to witness the future of classical music at this thrilling competition concert, where rising stars will showcase their talent and passion, leaving audiences inspired by the next generation of world-class musicians.