Tuesday, October 28, 2025 (Ann Arbor, MI) — The Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra (A2SO) is delighted to announce that Hannah Lee, a 14-year-old violinist and freshman at Pioneer High School, has been named the winner of the 2025 A2SO Young Artist Competition.
Lee captivated the judges with her performance of the first movement of Henri Vieuxtemps’ Violin Concerto No. 5 in A minor, earning a $500 cash prize and the opportunity to perform with the A2SO at its March 2026 Link Up concert, presented in partnership with Carnegie Hall’s Weill Music Institute.
“This year’s competition highlighted an exceptional level of artistry and dedication from young musicians across Michigan,” said Marissa Honig, A2SO Senior Manager of Learning & Community. “Hannah delivered a dazzling performance that combined technical mastery with remarkable musical maturity. She is an outstanding representative of the next generation of Michigan musicians.”
11 young musicians from across Michigan competed in this year’s competition, with five finalists performing on Saturday, October 25, at Eastern Michigan University. Violinist Tony Wu, a freshman at Northville High School, was named runner-up and received a $250 cash prize.
The competition jury, composed of A2SO principal trombone Donald Babcock, flute Trey Bradshaw and assistant concertmaster Mallory Tabb, praised the impressive musicianship displayed by all participants. They commended Lee for her “captivating, sparkling, and joyful performance,” noting that she “drew the judges in from the very first moment of her performance.”
Lee began studying violin at the age of five and currently studies with Professor Danielle Belen at the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance. She previously studied with Heidi Braun-Hill and Will Thain, has twice served as concertmaster of the Michigan All-State Middle School Orchestra, and attended Center Stage Strings for two summers. Outside of music, she enjoys reading and listening to Linkin Park.
“The Young Artist Competition is a cornerstone of the A2SO’s educational mission,” said Sarah Calderini, A2SO Executive Director. “We are proud to provide emerging musicians with meaningful opportunities to perform and grow as artists.”
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Currently in their 97th concert season, the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra (A2SO) is one of the Midwest’s premier regional orchestras, creating live, orchestral music for 70,000 listeners each year. The A2SO engages with the community through innovative and imaginative concert programming, educational programs, radio broadcasts, recordings, and online streaming. To find out more about the orchestra’s events and initiatives, visit www.a2so.org.