Leland Ko '24 AD Claims Third Prize at 2026 Queen Elisabeth Competition
Cellist and alumnus Leland Ko '24 AD has placed third in the 2026 Queen Elisabeth Competition. This competition is one of the world's most prestigious and demanding international music competitions for young, classically trained virtuosos. Held annually in Brussels, Belgium, the event serves as a major springboard launching the careers of top-tier musicians. Established in 1937, the competition rotates through a four-year cycle focusing on a different discipline each year.
Leland is recognized for his "disarming charisma" and "poetic longing," captivating audiences worldwide across prestigious venues like Carnegie Hall, Boston's Symphony Hall, and Montréal's Maison Symphonique. A recipient of the Avery Fisher Career Grant and first prize winner of the Naumburg International Cello Competition, the Concert Artists Guild, and the Concours OSM, his 2025–2026 season features solo appearances with the DuPage Symphony, recitals at Weill Recital Hall, and extensive chamber music tours.
A dedicated chamber musician, Leland is a member of Trio Rai, the OAK Trio, the Phaidros Quartet, and the Sejong Soloists, having previously served as Music Director of Princeton's Opus 21. His distinguished academic and musical background includes a degree in German Literature from Princeton University followed by graduate studies at The Juilliard School and NEC. Based in Boston, Leland performs on a c. 1728–30 Pietro Guarneri cello and a Dominique Peccatte bow, generously on loan from Canimex Inc.
Congratulations to Leland!
