The Symphony of Southeast Texas is thrilled to announce the results of the 2023 Concerto Competition.
The first-place winner is pianist Matthew Lou (pictured below) from Beaumont. He won the prize of $750 and the honor of playing his competition piece, Mendelssohn’s Piano Concerto in g minor, at the Youth Education Concert. Led by Maestro Chelsea Tipton II, the SOST orchestra will perform this concert on April 12, 2023.
The second-place winner is flutist Beau Michaels of Nederland. She won the prize of $500 playing the flute to Reinecke’s Flute Concerto in D major. She also won third place in the 2022 Concerto Competition.
The third-place winner is flutist Claire Ren of Beaumont. She won the prize of $250 performing Perilhou’s Ballade.
“Our three contestants, Matthew, Beau, and Claire, who placed in the Concerto Competition this year deserve congratulations. It was a pleasure listening to all the auditions, and I am looking forward to having Matthew play with the SOST at our educational concerts in April,” said Maestro Tipton. “These experiences are so valuable to young musicians. Stepping up for an audition, playing from memory, overcoming nerves, and performing to the best of their abilities is a fantastic learning experience. Once again, congratulations to Mathew, Beau, and Claire for their accomplishments this year!”
We couldn’t be happier for these young musicians as they embark on their musical journeys.
They will be presented with their cash prize at the SOST Classic Series IV concert, Fanfare and Fortitude, on April 1, 2023 at the Julie Rogers Theatre. Funding for these prizes is generously provided by the Symphony League of Beaumont.
