Ethan Hong is a 12-year-old violinist who grew up in a household with parents who both played the violin in their childhood. Ever since they encouraged him to try a musical instrument, he has been playing the violin and taking lessons for 6 years. Over this time, he has been playing in the Seattle Youth Symphony Orchestra since 2021. He has also participated in the Performing Arts Festival of the Eastside in 2025, obtaining second-place in his age division. His journey as a musician has taught him self-discipline, patience, and given him a love for the art of music. He aspires to be able to play a solo with an orchestra on stage. In his free time, he likes to study history and paint.
Watch Ethan Jay Hong perform Concerto No. 2 in G Major, 1st Movement by Joseph Haydn on the violin for the 2026 Winter Music Competition as part of the Charleston International Music Competition.