2026 Max Kaplan Award Winner to Perform with the LaGrange Symphony Orchestra
The LaGrange Symphony Orchestra (LSO) is delighted to welcome violinist Lauren Yejin Kang as guest artist for the March 24 concert “Epic Adventures, Myths and Galaxies” (7:30 PM at Callaway Auditorium, LaGrange, GA). Lauren stands out as an extraordinary rising star—whose talent and dedication mark her as a young musician to watch. The LaGrange Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of Maestro Richard Prior, promises an unforgettable evening, pairing Lauren’s vibrant artistry with the rich, powerful sound of the LSO. Her contribution will bring even more excitement to this sweeping, imaginative program. (Full concert lineup listed below)
Lauren is this year’s Max Kaplan Award winner from the 2026 Young Artists Competition. While the March concert traditionally features the Dorothy Allen Turner Award winner, a scheduling conflict created an unexpected opportunity, and we are grateful that Lauren graciously stepped in. We look forward to welcoming the 2026 Dorothy Allen Turner Award winner in a future LSO collaboration. For now, Lauren’s poise, artistry, and remarkable accomplishments make her a standout addition to this program. Read on!
More about Lauren
At just 15 years old, Lauren Yejin Kang is already establishing herself as one of the nation’s most impressive young violinists. A native of Vestavia Hills, Alabama, she began studying violin at age five. In 2023, she was accepted into The Juilliard School Pre-College, where she studies with Sheryl Staples, Principal Associate Concertmaster of the New York Philharmonic. Lauren travels weekly between Alabama and New York to pursue her studies—a testament to her dedication and passion.
Her recent achievements are equally inspiring. In 2024, she received a scholarship from the Stamas Scholarship Committee of the New York Philharmonic and was awarded First Prize at the 2026 Lois Pickard Competition. She has earned top honors in competitions across the United States, South Korea, and internationally, and was a 2025 MTNA Junior Division National Finalist.
In 2026, Lauren was also selected as an NPR From the Top Fellow, one of the nation’s most prestigious recognitions for outstanding young classical musicians. As part of this fellowship, she recorded at the legendary FAME Studios in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, and her performance and personal story will be broadcast nationally on NPR.
The LaGrange Symphony Orchestra is proud to present this exceptional young artist to our audience. Join us on March 24 for an evening of brilliance, elegance, and inspiring musical artistry as Lauren Yejin Kang takes the stage.
Full Program Lineup
- The Annual Youth Orchestra Side-By-Side Collaborative Experience with the LSO
Music from The Lord of the Dance: The Lord of the Dance * The Cry of the Celts by Ronan Hardiman, arranged by Larry Moore - Appearance by special guest artist, Lauren Yejin Kang, 2026 YAC Max Kaplan Award Winner
Violin Concerto No. 3 in B minor, Op. 63. I. Allegro non troppo by Camille Saint-Saëns - How to Train Your Dragon by John Powell
- Lord of the Rings by Howard Shore, arr. John Whitney
- Star Wars Full Suite by John Williams
Join us for a remarkable evening as the LaGrange Symphony Orchestra continues to Break Sound Barriers. Through bold programming and inspired performance, the LSO invites you on a powerful journey of sound and imagination, defying expectations and expanding what an orchestra can be.
Tickets and additional concert information are available at [THIS LINK].
We look forward to seeing you on March 24!
© LaGrange Symphony Orchestra 2025/2026 | All rights reserved | 706.882.0662 | Richard Prior, Music Director & Conductor