Over the years, we’ve had numerous professional and youth soloists (including winners of our Student Concerto Competition), who we’ve been very proud to present at our concerts. Their talent and musicianship have been invaluable assets to our mission of bringing the best of live performances to the Waltham community and beyond. Below are statements from past soloists, who have generously commented on their fulfilling experiences with the WPO.

Featured youth musicians:

“As a ten-year-old playing with an orchestra for the very first time, I was understandably nervous. But after my first rehearsal with the WPO and Maestro Korn, the anxiety disappeared because the WPO community was so warm and welcoming. Having the opportunity to perform a concerto with a full orchestra at such a young age showed me, in a way nothing else could, the magic of music and how players together can become part of something larger than themselves.”

 – Hayden Idson, cello

 

“It was such an honor to perform with Maestro Korn and the Waltham Philharmonic Orchestra. Beethoven’s Triple Concerto is certainly a challenging project, but with the help of Mr. Korn and the orchestra, the piece sounded amazing by the end of the process. I had a blast playing with these wonderful musicians!”

–  Andrew Ho, piano

 

“Performing with the Waltham Philharmonic Orchestra was an incredible experience, and I am so grateful to have been able to play such wonderful music with lovely musicians, and for a great audience. Every member of the orchestra was so kind and welcoming, and I felt truly inspired to perform with them under the baton of Mr. Korn. Both times I performed with the orchestra were very memorable, and I am so glad we came together to share the beauty of music with the local community.”

– Ayaan Ahmad, violin

 

 

“As an aspiring young musician, I am incredibly grateful to have had the opportunity to play with the WPO. Working with this orchestra has been an essential part of my growth as a musician and my musical career. It makes it even more special to be able to connect with musicians and music lovers in my hometown!”

– Lillian Arnold Mages, violin

 

“Performing Tchaikovsky’s Rococo Variations with the WPO during the holiday season was a deeply joyful and inspiring moment in my musical journey. The warmth, encouragement, and energy of Mr. Korn and the orchestra allowed me to share my passion for music and create a truly moving connection with the audience through this beautiful and virtuosic work.”

– Hayden Ren, cello

 

“It was an incredible opportunity for me to play with the Waltham Philharmonic Orchestra. Mr. Korn is extremely knowledgeable about music and I learned a great deal from him. The most joyful part of music for a performer is the chance to share what you love with an audience, and performing with the WPO allowed me to do exactly that.”

– Ezra Lewis, piano

 

Professional guest soloists:

“This season [2025-26] will be my third time performing with the Waltham Philharmonic Orchestra. Lucky me! The welcoming and appreciative atmosphere from the very first time we collaborated was unmistakable: music director, musicians, staff, volunteers, and audience members always made me feel right at home and part of this wonderful community. It has been not only a privilege being invited to make music together and keep live performances relevant, but also a great way to stay connected with people. Can’t wait to perform Gershwin with the WPO in March!” 

– Victor Cayres, piano

 

“Performing the Mendelssohn Double Concerto with the WPO in 2021 has been one of the dearest memories in my recent concertizing. I am deeply appreciative of the opportunity to meet maestro Michael Korn, the members of the orchestra, and to make wonderful music together. I would love to revisit and collaborate in the near future!” 

– Ji Myung Kim, violin

 

“As a performer who travels throughout New England, my experience with the WPO stood out for its remarkable sense of camaraderie and the genuine connection shared with the audience. It was a true honor to be part of such a joyful, communal musical moment.”

– Rachel Braude, flute

 

“Bravo to the Waltham Philharmonic and artistic director Michael Korn for championing local composers and world class artists from right here in Boston/Metrowest and from around the world! The spirit of the players, their love of performing great music locally and the service it provides for concertgoers in our area is priceless. Please join me in supporting this great organization.”

– Emmanuel Feldman, cello