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PATHWAY
AADARSH PARAMESWARAN
INSTRUMENT: Bassoon
AGE: 17
NEIGHBORHOOD: Hoffman Estates
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Midwest Philharmonic Orchestra
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST MEANINGFUL MUSICAL EXPERIENCE SO FAR: The summer of 2025, I had the opportunity to perform in Indianapolis at the International Double Reed Society Conference alongside members of the Summer Bassoon Workshop. We performed the 4th movement of Eroica Symphony by Beethoven and it was an incredible experience.
FAVORITE PIECE OF MUSIC OR SONG: I absolutely love Scheherazade by Rimsky-Korsakov. Besides classical, I listen to hip-hop and R&B a lot. Some of my favorite songs are Samurai by Lupe Fiasco and Best Part by Daniel Caesar.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT CHICAGO: I love exploring its city-life, trying new foods, and taking in the architecture and lakeside views. It’s a city full of creativity and culture that always feels alive.
ADAM EL YAKINE
INSTRUMENT: Violin
AGE: 15
NEIGHBORHOOD: Elk Grove Village
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST MEANINGFUL MUSICAL EXPERIENCE SO FAR: Seeing the Chicago Symphony Orchestra live
FAVORITE PIECE OF MUSIC OR SONG: Vivaldi's Four Seasons
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT CHICAGO: The diversity of cultures, people, and places
ADARSH REDDY
INSTRUMENT: Cello
AGE: 13
NEIGHBORHOOD: West Loop
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Merit School of Music
SUMMER EXPERIENCES: I went to Interlochen Center for the Arts for three weeks last summer. Illinois Music Competition. It was a lot of fun and it motivated me to practice more.
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST MEANINGFUL MUSICAL EXPERIENCE SO FAR: The Illinois Music Competition. It was a lot of fun, and it motivated me to practice more.
FAVORITE PIECE OF MUSIC OR SONG: Morpheus Cello Concerto, Mvt. 3 by Oliver Davis
AKI SANTIBANEZ
INSTRUMENT: Violin
AGE: 17
NEIGHBORHOOD: Prairie District
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Merit School of Music
SUMMER EXPERIENCES: I had the opportunity to attend Sounding Point Academy at Colburn in Los Angeles, California and Green Mountain Chamber Music Festival in Burlington, Vermont.
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST MEANINGFUL MUSICAL EXPERIENCE SO FAR: The most significant musical experience was winning both the CYSO and Northwest Symphony Orchestra concerto competitions.
FAVORITE PIECE OF MUSIC OR SONG: Touch Her Soft Lips and Part by William Walton
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT CHICAGO: I love the tight-knit musical community here as well as the beautiful skylines!
ALEXANDER LISCANO
INSTRUMENT: Violin
AGE: 13
NEIGHBORHOOD: Waukegan
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Ravinia
ANGELO ACOSTA
INSTRUMENT: French Horn
AGE: 13
NEIGHBORHOOD: Cicero, IL
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS:
FAVORITE PIECE OF MUSIC OR SONG: Can't help falling in love was a great one that I liked. But also eye of the tiger. Dont remember the composers name.
BEATRICE VALENZUELA
IINSTRUMENT: Violin
AGE: 15
NEIGHBORHOOD: Wilmette, IL
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras and Midwest Young Artists Conservatory
SUMMER EXPERIENCES: This past summer, I attended Ascent Music Festival. I was also part of the inaugural class for the Julliard Summer Music program. In the past few years, I have also attended Heifetz International Music Institute, Sphinx Performance Academy both at Juilliard and CU Boulder, and Chicago Chamber Music Festival (CCMF).
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST MEANINGFUL MUSICAL EXPERIENCE SO FAR: The most significant musical experience in my life so far is the side-by-side rehearsal with the National Children's Symphony of Venezuela and Maestro Gustavo Dudamel in August 2024 at Ravinia. My abuelita Rosa was able to watch me during that performance -- that summer was her last summer with us, since she passed away in January 2025.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT CHICAGO: Chicago is my father's hometown and it is the best due to the friendly people, beautiful lakefront, amazing culinary diversity, and just an overall wonderful place to live! I now live about 30 minutes north but each time we have to go to the city, especially driving down Lake Shore Drive, I always feel so grateful to live in one of the best cities in the world.
BRYAN HERRERA
INSTRUMENT: French Horn
AGE: 14
NEIGHBORHOOD: Cicero, IL
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Merit School of Music
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST MEANINGFUL MUSICAL EXPERIENCE SO FAR: The most significant musical experience has to be my first recital here with CMPI. I never expected me to be able to perform in front of many people like that before. It was scary but I liked it.
FAVORITE PIECE OF MUSIC OR SONG: My favorite piece of music has to be Mozart Horn Concerto No.1 in D major, 1953 recording, by Dennis Brain. My favorite piece of music that isn't classical; is Lady Blue by Enrique Bunbury, a Spanish Rock artist. Fun fact, my father and mother said how he was probably the reason why I love music a lot, since they went to a concert of his when I was still in my mother's belly. Or it was a different artist, but it was one of the two.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT CHICAGO: I love taking pictures of liminal spaces in Chicago and taking pictures of the cool sights around the city.
CALIEL MOSLEY
INSTRUMENT: Clarinet
AGE: 17
NEIGHBORHOOD: Crown Point, IN
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Merit School of Music and Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras
SUMMER EXPERIENES: Juilliard Summer Music and the YOLA National Festival
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST MEANINGFUL MUSICAL EXPERIENCE SO FAR: My most significant musical experience has been soloing with the Indiana Wind Symphony. It was an amazing opportunity and a chance for me to make my solo debut with a professional ensemble! I enjoyed the performance very much, and it helped build my confidence and identity as a performer.
FAVORITE PIECE OF MUSIC OR SONG: Edouard Destenay Trio in B Minor for Oboe, Clarinet, and Piano, Op.27
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT CHICAGO: I love my family and culture. I'm originally from a far south neighborhood in Chicago. I love the culture grown between the friends and family on my old street. I love the cookouts and get-togethers where we eat homemade food and play spades in the basement. I love the restaurants like I-57 RIB House that we get on every occasion. I love our visits to the Kroc Center, where I went to swim and my dad to play basketball. The culture and identity I developed are heavily rooted in South Side, and I appreciate who it made me into today.
CYNTHIA MELECIO
INSTRUMENT: Flute
AGE: 12
NEIGHBORHOOD: Berwyn
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Merit School of Music
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST MEANINGFUL MUSICAL EXPERIENCE SO FAR: My most significant musical experience in my life would be my first recital playing piano, because it had a lot of impact on what I wanted to do and it made me realize this is what I would want to do. My second choice would be my first ever time seeing a musical which was Hamilton.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT CHICAGO: I love that Chicago has so many places to see and great architecture, and such great musicians too of course.
DELIA MENDOZA
INSTRUMENT: Flute
AGE: 15
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Merit School of Music
SUMMER EXPERIENCES: Kinhaven Music Camp
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST MEANINGFUL MUSICAL EXPERIENCE SO FAR: When I spent a day at the Chicago Flute Club with my private lesson teacher. That was when I started getting serious about music and I got to test out a lot of different flutes.
FAVORITE PIECE OF MUSIC OR SONG: I like the piece Syrinx by Claude Debussy
DESI JOHNSON
INSTRUMENT: Cello
AGE: 14
NEIGHBORHOOD: North Lawndale
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Sistema Ravinia
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST MEANINGFUL MUSICAL EXPERIENCE SO FAR: Getting the opportunity to play and watch famous composers, conductors and artists.
FAVORITE PIECE OF MUSIC OR SONG: An American in Paris by George Gershwin
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT CHICAGO: The tall buildings with beautiful art and music
DMYTRO SALDAN
INSTRUMENT: Violin
AGE: 17
NEIGHBORHOOD: Ukrainian Village
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Merit School of Music, Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras
SUMMER EXPERIENCES: This summer I have had 2 major music experiences. The first is a summer music camp called ARIA which took place in Massachusetts. I was there for a month, 2 sessions that were 2 weeks each. The other experience was the preparation and rehearsals for CYSO’s Lollapalooza performance that was unfortunately cancelled due to the weather.
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST SIGNIFICANT MUSICAL EXPERIENCE SO FAR: I think that the CYSO tour to Spain greatly influenced my view on a professional orchestral career. The experience of staying in a foreign country while also performing concerts was a very eye-opening opportunity. The multitude of venues at which we performed, and the youth orchestra exchanges allowed for me to experience the Spanish musical culture in a very unique way.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT CHICAGO: In my opinion, the Lakeshore is one of the best parts of Chicago because of its vast amounts of fun activities and peaceful atmosphere that makes you want to spend some time outside or go biking.
FAVORITE PIECE OF MUSIC OR SONG: My favorite piece is “A Town with an Ocean View” by Joe Hisaishi.
ELYSHIA RAJPUT
INSTRUMENT: Cello
AGE: 12
NEIGHBORHOOD: Buffalo Grove, IL
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS:
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST SIGNIFICANT MUSICAL EXPERIENCE SO FAR: The most amazing musical experience I’ve had was going to the CSO concert at the Ravinia Festival in August 2025, where Sheku Kanneh-Mason was the featured cellist. Seeing him performing live was amazing, his playing was so emotional and powerful. The best part was that, I got to meet him after the concert!! We even got to take a group photo with him.
FAVORITE PIECE OF MUSIC OR SONG: Cello Concerto No. 1 in A minor, Op. 33 by Camille Saint-Saëns
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT CHICAGO: I like walking by Lake Michigan with my family. The Chicago skyline looks amazing, especially when you see it from near the Adler Planetarium. There are also lots of cool places to go, like Millennium Park, the Field Museum, and Lincoln Park Zoo.
FABIAN PEREZ
INSTRUMENT: Bassoon
AGE: 17
NEIGHBORHOOD: Mount Prospect, IL
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS:
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST MEANINGFUL MUSICAL EXPERIENCE SO FAR: I saw Lakecia Benjamin play live at Notre Dame and it was really inspiring seeing how much passion she had for her music
FAVORITE PIECE OF MUSIC OR SONG: All blues by miles Davis
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT CHICAGO: I like how there’s always events happening nearby whether it’s music related or not
GABRIEL MARTINEZ
INSTRUMENT: Violin
AGE: 16
NEIGHBORHOOD: Mundelein, IL
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras, Music Institute of Chicago
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST MEANINGFUL MUSICAL EXPERIENCE SO FAR: Being in CMPI is the most significant musical experience I have had. Since I’ve joined, I was able to get with a really good teacher who was able to correct my technique and take my playing to a whole other level and push me. CMPI's support with providing mentors, juries, and performance opportunities has been able to make me feel more confident about playing in front of people who are playing at a high level!
FAVORITE PIECE OF MUSIC OR SONG: My favorite piece of music is Samuel Barber’s Second Essay for Orchestra. I first heard it on YouTube while trying to discover new orchestral music, and I was instantly captivated. I love how the piece begins very slowly and gradually builds in intensity as it develops. As I’ve become more experienced musically, my appreciation of the piece has changed, especially in the way I listen to its instrumentation, structure, and emotional development.
GABRIELLA JOEW
INSTRUMENT: Flute
AGE: 14
NEIGHBORHOOD: Lincoln Park
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestra, Merit School of Music, Midwest Young Artists Conservatory
HOW DID YOU HEAR ABOUT CMPI: I learned about CMPI from CYSO's newsletter and from my friends who were studying flute
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST MEMORABLE MUSICAL EXPERIENCE SO FAR: Performing at world-renowned concert halls such as Carnegie Hall and Walt Disney Concert Hall has been an unforgettable experience for me. However, my most meaningful musical experience so far has been participating in the Chicago Philharmonic community concert. Sharing symphonic music in a relaxed setting—without the formality of tuxedos—and helping more people connect with and appreciate it made this summer especially meaningful.
GEORGE WANG
INSTRUMENT: Violin
AGE: 12
NEIGHBORHOOD: Chicago, IL
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Music Institute of Chicago, Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras
GRETA SILEIKA
INSTRUMENT: Viola
AGE: 11
NEIGHBORHOOD: Chicago
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Merit School of Music
HANNA MARSZALEK
INSTRUMENT: Violin
AGE: 17
NEIGHBORHOOD: Algonquin, IL
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Elgin Youth Symphony Orchestras
MOST MEANINGFUL MUSICAL EXPERIENCES: Performing with the Piano Guys, attending Shkolnikova Academy.
FAVORITE PIECE OF MUSIC OR SONG: Either Brahms' Double Concerto or Sibelius' Violin Concerto
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT CHICAGO: I love all the beautiful cultures and the people you get to meet!
ISAIAH HERNANDEZ
INSTRUMENT: Tuba
AGE: 12
NEIGHBORHOOD: Cicero
ISRAEL FERNANDEZ
INSTRUMENT: Cello
AGE: 13
NEIGHBORHOOD: Skokie
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestra, Merit School of Music
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST SIGNIFICANT MUSICAL EXPERIENCE SO FAR: Being a part of the CMPI community because I got friends who love and show me how we can make good sound and practice better. I love to have musician friends because the music is a language that is important in the world.
FAVORITE PIECE OF MUSIC OR SONG: Piano Concerto No. 1 by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Played by Martha Argerich, Charles Dutoit & the Verbier Festival Orchestra.
WHAT I LOVE ABOUT CHICAGO: It's the place where I first learned about music, it made me so many memories that I will carry around with my life.
ITZEL SOTELO
INSTRUMENT: Flute
AGE: 17
NEIGHBORHOOD: Crete, IL
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Merit School of Music
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST MEANINGFUL MUSICAL EXPERIENCE SO FAR: This summer, I had the opportunity to play second flute in The Moldau by Smetana, which was my first time playing in an orchestra. I had so much fun getting to experience what it was like to play in an orchestra and work with so many other musicians. It was a really exciting experience, and I hope to have more opportunities to play in orchestras in the future.
FAVORITE PIECE OF MUSIC OR SONG: Rhapsody in Blue by George Gershwin
IVAN CALDERON
INSTRUMENT: Trumpet
AGE: 16
NEIGHBORHOOD: Hoffman Estates, IL
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Merit School of Music
SUMMER EXPERIENCES: I spent this summer at Kinhaven music school where we rehearsed chamber and brass ensemble music on a rotating basis, along with orchestra rehearsal every night. The variety of musical experiences I had taught me better flexibility and teamwork, while concerts every weekend helped me learn how to put together repertoire quickly and have performances that I am proud of.
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST MEANINGFUL MUSICAL EXPERIENCE SO FAR: Our first play-through at District 7 ILMEA because the quality of the ensemble was something that I had never experienced before and it was truly eye opening.
FAVORITE PIECE OF MUSIC OR SONG: Romeo and Juliet Fantasy Overture - Tchaikovsky
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT CHICAGO: The variety of musical communities and experiences that exist, and the general culture and environment in the city.
JARED SANCHEZ
INSTRUMENT: Trumpet
AGE: 17
NEIGHBORHOOD: Westchester, IL
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Merit School of Music
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST SIGNIFICANT MUSICAL EXPERIENCE SO FAR: The most significant is when I fell in love with music. At first, I thought practicing my instrument was a waste of time and my parents were just making me do it just because. However, coming into high school, I came with a passion to not be the best but to be better. My band teacher told me about an Honors Band at UIC and me and my friends went. The first song we rehearsed was Halcyon Hearts and it touched my soul. I began tearing up and it felt beautiful. It was just the first rehearsal, but it sounded as if it had already been perfected by the band I was in. There are no words to explain what I felt that day, but it changed my whole view of life and of my instrument, it will forever be my most memorable and significant because it has led me to be the musician I am now.
SUMMER EXPERIENCES: I went to Interlochen summer camp
FAVORITE PIECE OF MUSIC OR SONG: My favorite piece of music is L'Oiseau de feu, K10: X. Khorovo (Ronde) des princesses by Igor Stravinsky.
JONATHAN TEXIS
INSTRUMENT: Tuba
AGE: 15
NEIGHBORHOOD: Mount Prospect, IL
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Midwest Young Artists Conservatory
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST SIGNIFICANT MUSICAL EXPERIENCE SO FAR: The most significant musical experience in my life so far would be playing with one of the best bands my school has ever had. I was lucky enough to make the symphonic band and play alongside many of friends who made ILMEA and we eventually got accepted to superstate. That band was one of my favorites that I'll never forget because it was the first time I've ever gotten to play with such talented musicians and learned from them.
FAVORITE PIECE OR SONG: La Chancla by Dennis Llinas for symphonic band
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT CHICAGO: One thing I love about Chicago is the views of the city when you're at a tall building. And the pizza here is amazing.
JULIANA DOOLIN
INSTRUMENT: Cello
AGE: 14
NEIGHBORHOOD: Munster, IN
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Hyde Park Youth Symphony, Merit School of Music
WHAT I LOVE ABOUT CHICAGO: I love the architecture of the buildings along the lakefront.
KAILEY HIDALGO
INSTRUMENT: Flute
AGE: 14
NEIGHBORHOOD: Chicago
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Merit School of Music
KEVIN SOTO
INSTRUMENT: Cello
AGE: 17
NEIGHBORHOOD: Albany Park
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestra, The People's Music School
SUMMER EXPERIENCES: Studied at Madeline Island Chamber Music where I worked with and was coached by members of the Arianna Quartet, Harlem Quartet, Brooklyn Rider, Pacifica Quartet, American String Quartet, and the Parker Quartet. He was also coached by Min-Jeong Koh and Erika Eckert along working with cellists Felix Wang, Pitnary Shin, and Christopher Costanza.
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST SIGNIFICANT MUSICAL EXPERIENCE SO FAR: Getting to perform two whole quartets in one summer!
WHAT I LOVE ABOUT CHICAGO: I love the city’s amazing food. So many restaurants to go to with very different cuisines.
FAVORITE PIECE OF MUSIC OR SONG: Sonata for Solo Cello in B minor, Op. 8 by Zoltan Kodaly.
KYMBELLA TREMAINE
INSTRUMENT: Flute
AGE: 14
NEIGHBORHOOD: Palos Hills
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Merit School of Music
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT CHICAGO: I love the mix of people and talent around the city
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST SIGNIFICANT MUSICAL EXPERIENCE SO FAR: Performing in concerts with a pianist
FAVORITE PIECE OR SONG: Cécile Chaminade Concertino for flute, Op. 107
MAJEED MUHAMMAD
INSTRUMENT: Cello
AGE: 15
NEIGHBORHOOD: Hyde Park
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Hyde Park Youth Symphony, Nation of Islam Musical Ensemble
HOW DID YOU GET YOUR START IN MUSIC: My dad taught me piano
WHAT I LOVE ABOUT CHICAGO: Downtown. I also love the lake and beaches.
SUMMER EXPERIENCES: I performed with merit conservatory allege cello choir and also The Sphinx Performance Academy Summer Music Camp. I also performed with The Chicago Philharmonic Orchestra at their “Side By Side Community Concert “.
MILES TEKIE
INSTRUMENT: Violin
AGE: 13
NEIGHBORHOOD: Hyde Park
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Hyde Park Suzuki Institute, One City
SUMMER EXPERIENCES: This summer, I have had several exciting musical experiences. I attended the OPUS Chamber music camp in Naperville, which I have had the pleasure of attending every summer for the past three years. I also continued my private violin lessons/group classes through the Hyde Park Suzuki Institute with my teacher, Mrs. Lucinda Ali-Landing, as well as practice coaching with Ms. Matea Hernandez through Vandercook College of Music. One of the highlights of my summer was having the opportunity to attend a performance and meet violinist Stella Chen at Ravinia.
MOST MEANINGFUL MUSICAL EXPERIENCE: The most significant musical experience in my life so far was having a master class with Njioma Grievous. This was memorable experience because she gave me very inspirational tips.
FAVORITE PIECE OF MUSIC OR SONG: My favorite composer is Pablo de Sarasate and my favorite piece is either Carmen Fantasies, by Franz Waxman or Sarasate.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT CHICAGO: I love how Chicago is such a big city but feels like a small town or community where I can run into somebody I know.
MYLES BASS
INSTRUMENT: Violin
AGE: 12
NEIGHBORHOOD: Oak Lawn, IL
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS:
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST MEANINGFUL MUSICAL EXPERIENCE SO FAR: My most significant musical experience is playing the national anthem for the Bulls Kids Nation.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT CHICAGO: I really like the skyline and food.
NEAL KOTAMARTY EISFELDT
INSTRUMENT: Violin
AGE: 17
NEIGHBORHOOD: Lake Zurich
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Music Institute of Chicago
HOW I GOT MY START IN MUSIC: My father encouraged me and introduced me to my first violin.
MOST MEANINGFUL MUSICAL EXPERIENCE: Debuting in Carnegie Hall with Bruch Violin Concerto #1 in G minor.
FAVORITE PIECE: Tchaikovsky's Swan Lake
NEENA AGRAWAL
INSTRUMENT: Viola
AGE: 17
NEIGHBORHOOD: Albany Park
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Music Institute of Chicago
SUMMER EXPERIENCES: I attended Yellow Barn Young Artists Program, Music@Menlo's Koret Young Performers, and New England Conservatories Chamber Music Young Artist Program
MOST MEANINGFUL MUSICAL EXPERIENCE: Performing Brahms's first sextet at Menlo and listening to a performance of Schubert's 2nd Piano Trio, which was the last performance of David Finckel and Wu Han as Music@Menlo directors so it was very special and emotional.
NEVEYA MCCULLOUGH
INSTRUMENT: Clarinet
AGE: 13
NEIGHBORHOOD: Chicago, IL
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Merit School of Music
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST MEANINGFUL MUSICAL EXPERIENCE SO FAR: The most significant Musical experience in my life has been playing for chance the rapper and also playing at Ravinia multiple times over the past few years.
FAVORITE PIECE OF MUSIC OR SONG: My favorite piece of music is Chrysalis by Gustave Langues
NISHANT CARR
INSTRUMENT: Cello
AGE: 16
NEIGHBORHOOD: Lincolnwood
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Music Institute of Chicago, Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestra
FAVORITE PIECE: Cello Concerto No. 1 in E Flat Major by Shostakovich
MOST MEANINGFUL MUSICAL EXPERIENCE: Meeting people and teachers at summer camps every year.
OSCAR SOTO
INSTRUMENT: Flute
AGE: 16
NEIGHBORHOOD: Wheeling, IL
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Midwest Young Artists (MYA)
OSHMITH ROY
INSTRUMENT: Flute
AGE: 15
NEIGHBORHOOD: Cary
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Midwest Young Artists
FAVORITE PIECE OF MUSIC OR SONG: Peterloo Overture by Malcom Arnold or Give Us This Day by David Maslanka
SUMMER EXPERIENCES: I went to Ravinia 4 times and went to many orchestra concerts which included touring Italy with my youth orchestra and playing there.
PALOMA FURST CHAVIRA
INSTRUMENT: Violin
AGE: 17
NEIGHBORHOOD: Park Forest
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Music Institute of Chicago
SUMMER EXPERIENCES: I toured Spain with the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestra in June and then toured Asia with the National Youth Orchestra.
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST MEANINGFUL MUSICAL EXPERIENCE SO FAR: Touring Asia with NYO/USA! We got to work with Ray Chen and Gianandrea Noseda. We played to sold out shows in amazing concert halls and also had free time to explore.
FAVORITE PIECE OF MUSIC OR SONG: Rachmaninoff Symphony No.2
ROMINA TURPO
INSTRUMENT: Violin
AGE: 12
NEIGHBORHOOD: Steger, IL
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Merit School of Music, Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST MEANINGFUL MUSICAL EXPERIENCE SO FAR: The most significant musical experience in my life was the first time I went to Ravinia to listen to a professional orchestra. It was an amazing experience to hear the musicians playing together live. I was very impressed by the sound of the orchestra, and it made me appreciate music even more.
FAVORITE PIECE OF MUSIC OR SONG: My favorite piece of music is the third movement of the Mendelssohn Violin Concerto, and my favorite composer is Felix Mendelssohn.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT CHICAGO: What I love about Chicago is its energy and diversity. You can find delicious food from many different cultures. I also love the beautiful, tall buildings and the Museum of Science and Industry, where I always have a great time.
I especially love Lake Michigan in the summer because I enjoy going to the beach with my family. Chicago also has many outdoor music events where we can spend time together, listen to music, and have fun. There is always something interesting to do in Chicago.
TENTANA KAHAR
INSTRUMENT: Violin
AGE: 12
NEIGHBORHOOD: Lake View
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST MEANINGFUL MUSICAL EXPERIENCE SO FAR: My most significant musical experience so far was performing Bach’s Double Violin Concerto with Midori. It was very exciting and inspiring, and I learned a lot from playing with such a great violinist.
FAVORITE PIECE OF MUSIC OR SONG: Dvořák’s Symphony No. 9, “From the New World.”
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT CHICAGO: I love Chicago’s rich history, amazing architecture, diverse people, great music, unique culture, international cuisines, and beautiful beaches.
TORRHI JENKINS
INSTRUMENT: Flute
AGE: 13
NEIGHBORHOOD: South Austin
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Sistema Ravinia
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST MEANINGFUL MUSICAL EXPERIENCE SO FAR: I had the chance to play for Chance the Rapper with my school orchestra.
FAVORITE PIECE OR SONG: I love any piece by Vivaldi
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT CHICAGO: I love the food and the architecture
VICTORIA GARCIA RUIZ
INSTRUMENT: Viola
AGE: 16
NEIGHBORHOOD: Buffalo Grove
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Midwest Young Artists Conservatory, Music Institute of Chicago
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST SIGNIFICANT MUSICAL EXPERIENCE SO FAR: Participating in the 2025 Equity Arc Pathways Orchestra- it was so fun meeting musicians from all over the country and working with some of the best in orchestral music today!
FAVORITE PIECE OF MUSIC OR SONG: One of my favorite pieces right now is Shostakovich's String Quartet No. 8. I got the opportunity to play both the first and second movement during the summer and I am fascinated by the unique harmony and by the nature of the piece and why it was written.
VICTORIA RODRIGUEZ
INSTRUMENT: Violin
AGE: 12
NEIGHBORHOOD: Hyde Park
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras, Hyde Park Suzuki Institute
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST SIGNIFICANT MUSICAL EXPERIENCE SO FAR: I think that everything that I have been able to attend and participate with CMPI, particularly the master class that I did with violinist Ayano Ninomiya.
FAVORITE PIECE OF MUSIC OR SONG: I love Vivaldi’s seasons , because is very lively and descriptive, but now I am learning Bach violin concerto in A minor , and it has become my favorite one.
WYNSTAN WILLIAMS
INSTRUMENT: Cello
AGE: 14
NEIGHBORHOOD: Englewood
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Merit School of Music
SUMMER EXPERIENCES: Sphinx Performance Academy
HOW DID YOU LEARN ABOUT CMPI: My older sister Autymn is an alum
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST MEANINGFUL MUSICAL EXPERIENCE SO FAR: Having a masterclass with Dr. Tanya Carey
FAVORITE PIECE OF MUSIC OR SONG: Prokofiev’s Sinfonia Concertante, Op. 125 and Popper Hungarian Rhapsody, Op. 68
WHAT I LOVE ABOUT CHICAGO: The diversity in food, people, and weather.
XIRUO "CECE" WANG
INSTRUMENT: Violin
AGE: 14
NEIGHBORHOOD: Hyde Park
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Music Institute of Chicago, Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST MEANINGFUL MUSICAL EXPERIENCE SO FAR: I played the Bach Double with Hilary Hahn
FAVORITE PIECE OF MUSIC OR SONG: My current favorite piece is Carmen Fantasy by Sarasate. My favorite composers are Mozart, Beethoven, and Sarasate. My favorite soloists are Hilary Hahn, Midori, and Maxim Vengerov.
WHAT I LOVE ABOUT CHICAGO: Museums, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and the beach!
YASMIN AL ZAHABI
INSTRUMENT: Violin
AGE: 14
NEIGHBORHOOD: River Forest
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST MEANINGFUL MUSICAL EXPERIENCE SO FAR: Playing Rondo Capriccioso with my school orchestra and Sunflower Chamber Orchestra
FAVORITE PIECE OF MUSIC OR SONG: Tchaikovsky Violin Concerto
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT CHICAGO: The skyscrapers and beautiful view of the city/lake during the night
YEMAYA MORGAN
INSTRUMENT: Cello
AGE: 11
NEIGHBORHOOD: Flossmoor, IL
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Hyde Park Youth Symphony
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST MEANINGFUL MUSICAL EXPERIENCE SO FAR: My most significant musical experience so far was performing in a trio in OPUS's 2024 summer camp. That was my first time performing in a trio. It was cool because I had to learn how to work with a small group and create a beautiful sound where we all got to shine.
FAVORITE PIECE OF MUSIC OR SONG: Humoresque by Antonín Dvorak
WHAT I LOVE ABOUT CHICAGO: I love the buildings of Chicago and the way the sun sets on the glass buildings. I also love Chicago's deep dish pizza and Lake Michigan.
ZAPRE BENSON NORWOOD
INSTRUMENT: Viola
AGE: 13
NEIGHBORHOOD: Englewood
AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS: Sistema Ravinia
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST MEANINGFUL MUSICAL EXPERIENCE SO FAR: The most significant experience in my life so far was on April 11 when I played at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and got to play along with other violists
SUMMER EXPERIENCES: Some musical experiences I’ve had this summer was when I went to Suzuki music camp at Northeastern University and another music camp with Sistema Ravinia at the Kehrein center. I’ve experienced a couple of viola master classes and played in a master class in July. Also have our opportunity to meet greet and play for chance the rapper.
FAVORITE PIECE OF MUSIC OR SONG: Classical- Antonio Vivaldi and rock- Mitski.