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Each spring, Masterworks Choral Ensemble proudly hosts its Annual Youth Music Competition to celebrate young musicians’ talent and dedication. Open to students in grades 3–12, the competition invites participants to perform for a panel of judges who act as adjudicators—professional musicians who offer thoughtful, constructive feedback to support each student’s musical growth. This approach emphasizes learning and development while also recognizing excellence with scholarship awards that support continued music education.
Masterworks Choral Ensemble aims to ensure access for all students regardless of financial background. We remove barriers to participation by eliminating application and entrance fees. Beyond performance, this event offers young musicians a chance to connect, learn from peers, and join a larger musical community.
This year, we were thrilled to welcome 25 student performers across three grade levels. The caliber of musicianship and dedication these young artists displayed was truly inspiring.
Thank you to all who participated — your music truly moved us!
Yukino performed Big Bad Dawg by Korine Fujiwara. She is a past winner of our Youth Music Competition at both the elementary and middle school levels. She is currently a member of the Tacoma Youth Symphony and studies with Dr. Svend Ronning at PLU. In addition to playing the violin, she enjoys musical theater and rock climbing.
Arya performed Prelude from Suite Bergamasque by Claude Debussy. She is is enrolled in the JAMS program at Jefferson MS. Since kindergarten, she has participated in a variety of adjudications, competitions, and recitals with her teacher, Amy Yang. Outside of studying piano, Arya enjoys dancing ballet, playing the violin, crocheting, traveling, reading and spending time with her family and friends. Arya is a past winner of the MCE Youth Music Competition at the elementary school level.
Emma performed Scherzo by Daniel van Goens. She has been studying cello at Krentz Cello Studio in Seattle for the past two years. She will be auditioning for the SOGO 2025-2026 season.
We’re deeply grateful to our panel of judges—Gary Witley, Austin Schlichting, and Jennifer Hermann—whose musical expertise and thoughtful, adjudicator-style feedback helped make this year’s Youth Music Competition a meaningful and enriching experience for every participant.
A respected conductor, composer, and retired music educator, Gary served as Artistic Director of Masterworks Choral Ensemble for over 40 years. He holds degrees in music education and choral conducting. During his distinguished career, he conducted milestone performances—including at the Washington Center for the Performing Arts‘ grand opening—led an international tour, and composed original works for ensemble anniversaries. His leadership and commitment to musical excellence have shaped generations of singers and students in our region.
Jennifer is the Director of Education & Community Engagement at the Washington Center for the Performing Arts and former Executive Director of the Olympia Symphony Orchestra. She holds a Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance from Washington State University and a Master of Music in Piano Performance & Pedagogy from Florida State University. She has taught college-level courses in theory, appreciation, and piano. Her work as a performer, educator, and advocate enriches the South Sound arts community.
A composer, music educator, and violist based in Lacey, WA, Austin holds a Bachelor of Music in Composition and a Bachelor of Arts in Violin/Viola Performance from Washington State University, along with a Master of Music in Composition from Ithaca College. His works have been performed by regional and national ensembles. He currently performs viola with the Olympia Symphony Orchestra. Austin also plays a key role in coordinating many of the orchestras featured in Masterworks Choral Ensemble concerts.
We give special recognition to Holly Negovan and Victoria Montrose.
Holly served as Event Chair and Lead Organizer of our Youth Music Competition for her 4th consecutive year. Victoria is the Business Manager of Masterworks Choral Ensemble.
Holly is a Soprano in Masterworks Choral Ensemble and sings in our auditioned Chamber Choir, a select group within the ensemble. She joined our choir in 2022 and currently serves on the Board of Directors. Her tireless work, thoughtful planning, and deep commitment to music education were essential to the success of this event. Thank you, Holly!
We also thank Victoria Montrose, Masterworks Choral Ensemble’s Business Manager, for her behind-the-scenes coordination and ongoing support. Her attention to detail helped ensure the event ran smoothly from start to finish.
Victoria first joined Masterworks Choral Ensemble in 2006. She currently sings Tenor—reflecting our ensemble’s inclusive, range-based voice placement—and also sings in our Chamber Choir. Victoria also serves on our Board of Directors, contributing her skills and passion to MCE’s mission in every possible way.
We were also thrilled to have George Campling as emcee for this year’s competition. George is a new member of Masterworks Choral Ensemble this season and is one of our Alto singers. She joined in August after relocating to Olympia from Nevada and quickly became a valued part of our community. Her warmth, clarity, and joyful presence brought a welcoming energy to the event from start to finish.
Special thanks to Elise Marshall for Marketing as well as Ana Martin for Event Photography. In addition to singing Alto with the choir, they also serve on the Board of Directors.
We are deeply grateful to all of the volunteers from Masterworks Choral Ensemble who helped make this event possible: Jessica Barnes, Holly Hoxeng, Cassandra Noble and son Chris, Bonnie Kim, Dan Rubin, and Val Kelly. From greeting families to assisting performers and managing logistics behind the scenes, your time and dedication ensure this competition runs smoothly and meaningfully each year!
We also appreciate the generous support of the local businesses who donated food and refreshments, including lunches for our judges and emcee, as well as coffee and SWAG for our volunteers: Freshii in West Olympia and the Starbucks on Cleveland Ave & North St.
A heartfelt thank-you as well to our Youth Music Competition sponsors — Nathan and Linda Buff, parents of one of our choir members — whose financial support helped bring this event to life. Your generosity helps us continue providing opportunities for young musicians to learn, grow, and be celebrated.
Our Youth Music Competition is one of the most impactful ways we support young musicians—and it’s only possible because of donors like you. When you give monthly, you help sustain programs like Youth Music Competition and ensure music education, performance, and community connection thrive all year long.
Join us in sharing the power of music—every month, every voice, every stage.
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Masterworks Choral Ensemble
P.O. Box 1091
Olympia, WA 98507
E-mail: info@nullmce.org
Telephone: 360.491.3305
