MSO Announces the 2016 Young Artist Competition Winners

MSO Announces the 2016 Young Artist Competition Winners. Photo provided.MSO Announces the 2016 Young Artist Competition Winners. Photo provided.

By: Tracy Dishman—

Middle and high school musicians from across the state competed for top prizes during Muncie Symphony Orchestra’s Young Artist Competition 2016, on Saturday, Jan. 9, at Sursa Performance Hall on the Ball State University campus.

The MSO Young Artist Competition offers young Indiana musicians the opportunity to compete with their peers at the highest level of artistic excellence. “For more than 15 years, MSO audiences and those that witness the competition performances are completely awestruck by the maturity and talent of these fine young musicians,” said Jennifer Johnson, MSO Executive Director. “This year’s junior division winner is just 13 years old! Her performance was filled with energy and excitement.”

The winner of the Steve Dingledine Senior Division, Rebekah Rexroth, age 17, performed the third movement of Piano Concerto in A minor, Op. 16 by Edvard Grieg. From Auburn, IN, Rebekah was awarded $500 and a performance opportunity.

The Ladonna Dingledine Junior Division winner, Grace Tubbs, age 13, performed the first movement of Piano Concerto No. 22 in E-flat Major, K. 482 by W.A. Mozart. A Bloomington, IN native, Grace was awarded $250 and a performance opportunity.

“This event featured some of the most talented young musicians in the region,” said Artistic Director/Conductor of the MSO, Douglas Droste. “Winners were awarded the opportunity to perform with the MSO. Past winners have gone on to prestigious music schools and careers.”

Part of the MSO Education Series that is free and open to the public, the MSO Young Artist Competition is generously supported by Psi Iota Xi, Alpha Chapter and Kappa, Kappa, Kappa, Inc.  Special thanks to Ball State University, BSU School of Music, Indiana Arts Commission, Indiana Public Radio, and Steve Perry Enterprises.

About Muncie Symphony Orchestra

Founded in 1948, the Muncie Symphony Orchestra seeks to provide its audience with rewarding musical experiences and to promote social exchange among attendees of the musical events. As an organization that celebrates the cultural vibrancy of East Central Indiana, the MSO uses music as a way to engage, educate, entertain and enrich through traditional classical and pops concerts, children’s concert, chamber events, and community engagement programs.

www.MuncieSymphony.org