For more than sixty years, Shar Music has been built on a simple belief. That believe is young musicians deserve opportunity early, not after they have already fought their way onto a stage. That belief led us to create Young Strings of America.
YSOA exists to support exceptional young string players who are ready for more than the practice room. We give them visibility, mentorship, performance opportunities, and a platform that connects their talent to real audiences and real careers. Classical tradition matters. Discipline matters. But so does helping the next generation step onto bigger stages with confidence.
Through out the years, we’ve seen exactly why this program matters.
Atlys, a classically trained crossover string quartet filled with YSOA ambassadors, continues to prove that tradition and innovation can live side by side. Their January 2026 performance in Highland Park, Illinois showcased original compositions and high-energy repertoire that speaks to modern audiences while holding onto classical roots. Millions of streams later, they still show up on stage doing the work the old-fashioned way — bow to string, audience to heart.
Cellist Sterling Elliott, another YSOA-supported artist, stepped into the professional spotlight as a featured soloist with the Sphinx Virtuosi during their 2025–26 national season. His February 2026 performance in Atlanta placed him on stage with one of the most respected touring string ensembles in the country. That is not a student showcase. That is a career moment.
YSOA musicians are also gaining recognition in major performance circles. Julian Rhee and Richard Lin were recently highlighted in industry concert reviews from Violinist.com for performances of cornerstone repertoire like Vivaldi’s Four Seasons. When young artists are being discussed alongside established concert performers, something is going right.
Beyond featured concerts and reviews, the heartbeat of YSOA is its students. Past and present participants include:
- Luke Hsu
- Nune Melik
- Sirena Huang
- Sterling Elliott
- Richard Lin
- Kiana June Weber
- Members of the Shanghai Quartet, a distinguished string quartet with global touring experience.
- Members of ensemble Ulysses
Why did Shar Music create Young Strings of America?
Because talent needs opportunity. YSOA was built to help young string players gain visibility, mentorship, and real performance experience while honoring classical tradition.
Who are some recent YSOA student success stories?
Atlys performing contemporary crossover concerts, Sterling Elliott soloing with the Sphinx Virtuosi, and rising artists Julian Rhee and Richard Lin receiving recognition in national concert reviews.
Is YSOA only for classical musicians?
No. While grounded in classical training, YSOA supports artists exploring crossover, contemporary, and innovative performance styles.
How does YSOA help students long-term?
By connecting them to professional stages, industry visibility, and a supportive network that helps turn musical discipline into sustainable careers.
This is why YSOA exists. Not just to celebrate talent, but to open doors, build confidence, and connect tradition with the future. We’re proud of every student in the program and honored to help steady the bow for the next generation.
