Hanz Baek, a junior at The Harker School, is a dedicated violinist in the Conservatory Certificate program and serves as concertmaster for the 2025–2026 season. He has been a member of the California Philharmonic Youth Orchestra since 2018, where he has held leadership roles including Associate Orchestra concertmaster and Senior Orchestra concertmaster. He won the CPYO Concerto Competition in both 2022 and 2025, earning solo performance opportunities on both occasions.
Hanz has received recognition in several national and international music competitions. In 2024, he won first place in both the American Fine Arts Festival International Concerto Competition and the American Protégé International Piano & Strings Competition, leading to performances at Carnegie Weill Hall. He was also named the California State winner in the OPUS Music Competition, selected for the California All-State Orchestra, and recognized in the ENKOR International Music Competition. He performed at the Junior Bach Festival in 2023 and 2025. He also participated in the CMEA State Solo & Ensemble Festival in 2023 and 2026, earning the Command Performance Award both years. In 2026, Hanz was selected to serve as concertmaster of the California All-State High School String Orchestra, where he demonstrated leadership while performing alongside selected high school musicians from across California.
An active chamber musician, Hanz performs in ensembles both at Harker and outside of school, with repertoire including Mendelssohn’s Octet in E-flat Major, Op. 20 and String Quartet No. 6 in F minor, Op. 80. Beyond performance, he is committed to connecting the community through music. Through Music and Us Serving Everyone, he regularly performs for senior centers and community events, and since 2023 he has taught violin through the Academy of Music and Arts for Special Education, helping students grow in confidence and musical expression.
Beyond music, Hanz is a nationally and internationally ranked competitive archer and has placed 4th in California in the U21 division in both 2024 and 2025. He is also a dedicated STEM scholar, recognized twice as a USA Biology Olympiad Semifinalist and as a state medalist in HOSA’s Dental Science competition. In addition, he leads research initiatives, volunteers in medical and community settings, and serves in student organizations focused on healthcare and the sciences.
S. Barber, Violin Concerto, Op. 14, I. Allegro
