Three Academy Alumni compete in Menuhin Competition

Updated May 17, 2021

Congratulations to Karisa Chiu as she advances to the finals! 
Karisa is one of four finalists advancing to the final round of competition on Saturday, May 22. Watch and vote for the Audience Prize-winner! You can watch the Finals live on our Facebook page, YouTube channel and the Menhuin website.

Congratulations to three MIC Academy alumni (Maya Anjali Buchanan, Karisa Chiu and Zach Brandon) who are participating in the prestigious Menuhin Competition, the world's leading international competition for young violinists. The competition takes place from May 14-23.

You can watch Maya, Karisa and Zach's first round performances here >>

Maya Anjali Buchanan (’18)

Maya is 21 and originally from from Rapid City, SD.  She was a student of Almita Vamos while at the Academy and she is currently studying at the Curtis Institute. She will be performing on the 90th Anniversary Gala this year.  Read and watch more here >>

Zachary Brandon(‘17)

Zach, age 22, is originally from Battle Creek, MI. He studied at the Academy with Almita Vamos and Hye-Sun Lee and recently graduated from the Colburn School.  He will continue his studies at Cleveland Institute of Music. Read and watch more here >>

Karisa Chiu (’17)

Karisa, age, 21, is from Palatine, IL.  She studied at the Academy with Almita Vamos and is currently at the Curtis Institute. Karisa wrote, “this competition is nothing like I’ve ever experienced before. While I dearly miss new friendships and connecting with fellow violinists in a regular competition setting, I’ve also learned a great deal about myself, both personally and as a musician, throughout this process. More than ever, I’m eager to get my music to people and I’m so grateful for this opportunity!" Read and watch more here >>