About the
2026 Dr. Ronald F. Vernon Young Artists
Concerto Competition Winners
Sophia Vo on piano, performing the Piano Concerto No. 2 in G Minor, Op. 22, 1. Andante sostenuto by Saint-Saënz.
A rising junior at an independent school in Germantown, Sophia has been playing piano under Lisa Fairchild Ramirez for many years. Ms. Ramirez says, " [Sophia] has been practicing this concerto mercilessly since last summer."
In addition to playing beautifully on piano, Sophia is also an avid volleyball player.
A rising junior at an independent school in Germantown, Sophia has been playing piano under Lisa Fairchild Ramirez for many years. Ms. Ramirez says, " [Sophia] has been practicing this concerto mercilessly since last summer."
In addition to playing beautifully on piano, Sophia is also an avid volleyball player.
Ashton Carter on viola, performing the Viola Concerto, Mvt. 1 by Walton.
Ashton is a rising high school senior in Germantown. Studying under Jane Schrantz for the past four years, she writes of him, "Ashton is one of the most talented violists I have ever worked with. In addition, he has the most outgoing personality and is a true leader in my studio and amongst his peers." She goes on to add that, "Ashton plays the viola with a beautiful and rich sound, has excellent technique and is musical well beyond his years."
Among his accomplishments, Ashton regularly holds leadership roles in school orchestra, MYSP, all west and all state. He also received a full scholarship last summer to Interlochen Arts Camp in Interlochen, Michigan for summer study. Aston received the prestigious award and was placed in the World Youth Symphony Orchestra as well as the Advanced Quartet Program.
Ashton is a rising high school senior in Germantown. Studying under Jane Schrantz for the past four years, she writes of him, "Ashton is one of the most talented violists I have ever worked with. In addition, he has the most outgoing personality and is a true leader in my studio and amongst his peers." She goes on to add that, "Ashton plays the viola with a beautiful and rich sound, has excellent technique and is musical well beyond his years."
Among his accomplishments, Ashton regularly holds leadership roles in school orchestra, MYSP, all west and all state. He also received a full scholarship last summer to Interlochen Arts Camp in Interlochen, Michigan for summer study. Aston received the prestigious award and was placed in the World Youth Symphony Orchestra as well as the Advanced Quartet Program.
Myles Martin on viola, performing theViola Concerto in D Major, Op. 1 by Stamitz.
Myles is a rising high school senior in Germantown, studying viola under Jane Schrantz.
Myles is a rising high school senior in Germantown, studying viola under Jane Schrantz.
Levi Lei on cello, performing the Cello Concerto No. 1 by Saint-Saënz.
Levi is a rising junior at a Germantown high school. He studies cello under the instruction of Kimberly Patterson.
Levi is a rising junior at a Germantown high school. He studies cello under the instruction of Kimberly Patterson.