Tony Michael Chen

piano

Tony Chen is an accomplished 13-year-old pianist who has been a member of OSYO for the past three seasons, currently studying under Dr. Jed Galant. His competition achievements include first place and a scholarship at the Sturm Page Competition, placement at the MTAC State Concerto Competition, second place at the East Bay Music Festival Solo Piano Competition, top honors in the USOMC Showcase Category, and first place in the Great Composers Competition. He was also invited to perform at the Junior Bach Festival and has played at Carnegie Hall on multiple occasions. Tony has taken masterclasses with distinguished pianists including Sandra Wright Shen, Dr. Ilya Blinov, Frank Weins, and Dr. Elizabeth Dorman. He has achieved Level Advanced in the Certificate of Merit standardized testing program, earning state convention and branch honors each year.

Beyond solo classical repertoire, Tony enjoys playing chamber music and has performed in numerous chamber concerts. He has also played several seasons of concert band as first-chair clarinetist.

Tony is currently an eighth grader at Challenger Middle School with a deep interest in computer science, engineering, and mathematics, and enjoys programming in multiple languages in his spare time. He has also competed in speech and debate for several years, winning multiple tournaments and various best speaker awards. 

Alongside his musical pursuits, Tony holds a black belt in taekwondo.  He gives back to his community by teaching students preparing for ABRSM exams and mentoring aspiring young musicians. He also volunteers at his school, where he has been selected to play piano for various musical programs.  Tony is looking forward to touring with the symphony in Europe this coming summer.