ESO Presents "Rising Stars of Stanger"

March 31, 2025

Stanger Young Artist Competition on May 10th

ELMHURST, IL — The Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra proudly announces its Stanger Young Artist Competition Concert, titled "Rising Stars of Stanger," set to take place on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church. This family-friendly event, suitable for ages 8 and up, promises an afternoon of extraordinary musical talent and excitement.

The concert features an impressive lineup of works, including Sergei Prokofiev’s Piano Concerto No. 2 (Mvt. IV), Robert Schumann’s Konzertstück for Four Horns and Orchestra, and Pyotr Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto (Mvt. I). Performing these masterpieces are finalists of the 2025 Stanger Young Artist Competition, showcasing the region’s finest high school musicians. The performers include Tong-Bai Deng on piano, horn players Sarah Gomez, Sam Deverman, Elyse Schlesinger, and Julian Kolthammer, and Neal Eisfeldt on violin, all accompanied by the Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Assistant Conductor Eli Chen.

What sets this concert apart is its competitive edge. Three groups of talented young artists will take the stage, each vying for the top prize in this prestigious competition. Judges, seated among the audience, will evaluate the performances and announce the winner live from the stage, adding a thrilling conclusion to the event.

Music Store Kagan & Gaines Presents "Instrument Petting Zoo" at Intermission

In addition to the musical performances, Music Store Kagan & Gaines will present the "Instrument Petting Zoo" at intermission. A wide array of musical instruments will be available for audience members of all ages to examine, touch, play, and explore. This unique and fun opportunity offers a hands-on way to get up close with the music, perfect for children and adults alike. Whether you're curious about trying an instrument for school, a new hobby, or simply enjoying the experience, the Instrument Petting Zoo is a fantastic way to spark creativity and learn more about the world of music. Don’t miss the chance to try out an instrument and sign up for lessons!

For those new to the Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra or curious about the program, additional resources such as a First-Timer’s Guide, FAQs, and detailed program information are available. Have questions? Visit our website or contact us for more details.

Join us on May 10, 2025, at Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church for an afternoon of inspiring music, hands-on learning, and the celebration of emerging talent. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to witness the next generation of musical stars in "Rising Stars of Stanger"!

Event Details:

Date: Saturday, May 10, 2025
Time: 2:00 PM
Location: Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church, Elmhurst

Suitable for: Ages 8+
More Info: For all event tickets, first-time visitor guides, FAQs, and further concert details, please visit www.ElmhurstSymphony.org or call the Elmhurst Symphony office at 630-941-0202, M-F 10 AM-3 PM.

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ESO Announces Winner of the 2025 Stanger Young Artist Competition

May 12, 2025

The Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra is thrilled to announce that Tong-Bai Deng , pianist, has been named the winner of the 2025 Stanger Young Artist Competition. The announcement was made live at the conclusion of the Rising Stars of Stanger concert on Saturday, May 10, 2025, held at Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church. Deng earned top honors for his electrifying performance of Sergei Prokofiev’s Piano Concerto No. 2, Movement IV , captivating both the audience and judges with his technical command and passionate artistry. The concert featured three finalist performances by exceptional high school musicians: Tong-Bai Deng , piano — Sergei Prokofiev’s Piano Concerto No. 2 (Mvt. IV) Sarah Gomez , Sam Deverman , Elyse Schlesinger , and Julian Kolthammer , horns — Robert Schumann’s Konzertstück for Four Horns and Orchestra Neal Eisfeldt , violin — Pyotr Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto (Mvt. I) The Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra, under the baton of Assistant Conductor Eli Chen , also performed Ludwig van Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7, Movement I , rounding out a dynamic and celebratory afternoon of music. A panel of esteemed judges— Andrea Lafranzo , Michael Lewanski , and Peter Lipari —was embedded in the audience to evaluate each finalist on musicianship, interpretation, and stage presence before announcing the winner live from the stage. “This competition is one of the most inspiring events we host all year,” said Michael Surratt, Coordinator of the Stanger Young Artist Competition. “We are so proud of all the finalists and extend our warmest congratulations to Tong-Bai Deng for his extraordinary performance.” The Stanger Young Artist Competition is an annual tradition that supports and celebrates the next generation of classical musicians by offering high school performers the opportunity to appear as soloists with a professional orchestra. It is in part sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Elmhurst , whose generous and ongoing support is gratefully acknowledged. For more information on the competition or upcoming performances, please visit ElmhurstSymphony.org or contact the ESO office at 630-941-0202 (Monday-Friday 10AM-3PM).