Three talented high school seniors from Alexander W. Dreyfoos School of the Arts in West Palm Beach have received Palm Beach Symphony’s 2026 Lisa Bruna B-Major Award. Violinist Michael Li was awarded first place, pianist Josefina Ezcurra placed second and violinist Elias Cohen placed third.
As their prize, they’ve each been gifted new professional level instruments to use for college auditions and future music career endeavors. The official announcement was made at the Symphony’s 24th Annual Gala “A Standing Ovation” at The Breakers Palm Beach.
“We are incredibly proud of these three outstanding students, who have distinguished themselves academically and musically while also giving back to their community. Their dedication and talent speak volumes about their bright futures, and we are honored to support them at this pivotal moment by providing instruments that will help elevate their artistry as they take the next step in their musical journeys,” said Palm Beach Symphony CEO David McClymont. “We wish them every success in their auditions and studies, and I am deeply grateful to our generous donors whose commitment to our youth makes it possible for us to invest in professional-level instruments year after year.”
First Place
Violinist Michael Li graduates in May from Alexander W. Dreyfoos School of the Arts, where he serves as concertmaster of Dreyfoos Philharmonic and Dreyfoos String Orchestra. A National Merit Scholarship semifinalist, the Jupiter resident takes academics as seriously as he does music, balancing lessons and practicing with a courseload stacked with AP classes. He is also passionate about fitness and health, serving as captain of his school’s varsity cross country team and historian for the Nutrition Club…