Guest Soloists Announced for 2025/26 "Radiant Reflections" Season

The DuPage Symphony Orchestra (DSO) proudly announces its featured guest soloists for the upcoming 2025/26 Radiant Reflections season, bringing world-class artistry to the western suburbs and creating unforgettable experiences for audiences and local students alike.

Valentin Kovalev, saxophone, (bio) will join the DSO in October, bringing his celebrated artistry and passion for elevating the classical saxophone to the forefront. A winner of the Naumburg Foundation 2022 Saxophone Competition and the 2024 CAG Louis and Susan Meisel Competition, Kovalev has performed across the globe, including a sold-out Carnegie Hall debut, and actively inspires young musicians through masterclasses worldwide.

Leland Ko, cello, (bio) will appear with the DSO in February. Known for his “disarming charisma” (South Florida Classical Review) and “poetic longing” (Boston Classical Review), Ko is a first-prize winner of the Concours Orchestre Symphonique de Montréal and the Naumburg International Cello Competition. He has performed in venues across North America, Europe, and Asia, and is a sought-after chamber musician with a dedication to nurturing the next generation of performers.

Nathan Meltzer, violin, (bio) will perform with the DSO in May. Winner of the 2023 Concert Artists Guild Competition and major prize winner at the Sibelius and Singapore International Violin Competitions, Meltzer has performed as a soloist with major orchestras across Europe and the Americas. A Juilliard graduate, he is also the co-founder of The Green Room Ensemble, dedicated to new music and historically underrepresented works.

“Our Radiant Reflections season explores the themes of memory, imagination, and identity through music that resonates deeply with audiences,” said Maestra Barbara Schubert, Music Director and Conductor of the DuPage Symphony Orchestra. “We are honored to welcome these outstanding soloists, each of whom brings unique artistry and a commitment to community engagement.”

In addition to their performances with the DSO, each soloist will participate in the orchestra’s education and community engagement programs, including school visits and masterclasses, giving local students an opportunity to learn directly from these acclaimed artists.

For concert dates, tickets, and more information on the Radiant Reflections season, visit www.dupagesymphony.org.