Leo Ma - Winner
Congratulations to Leo Ma for winning the 2026 Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras Concerto Competition for the Philharmonic Orchestra! Leo Ma @leo.ma.12 is a 13-year-old violinist from Chicago, currently studying with Professor Minghuan Xu @allthings.strings at New Music School.
He began playing at age six at DePaul Community Music School and has been a member of the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras (CYSO) since age nine, now proudly serving as Concertmaster of the Philharmonic Orchestra. Leo previously studied with Hannah Barton, Davis King and Hui Jin.
Leo recently won 1st Prize at the 2026 Berlin Grand Prize Virtuoso International Music Competition (performing at the Berlin Philharmonic) and 1st Prize in the CYSO Concert Orchestra Competition, debuting as soloist at Gannon Concert Hall. He has also earned top awards at the IMA, London Young Musician (Under 15), and Canadian International Music Competitions. Leo performs with natural musical instincts, a warm tone, and a poised, confident presence on stage.
Beyond the violin, Leo studies piano and is a passionate athlete — competing on the Chicago School of Golf travel team while loving sailing and alpine skiing. He brings the same curiosity, discipline, and joy to everything he does.
