Webb Clarinetist wins Concerto Competition

Students accomplish extraordinary things while at Webb. From placing in international science fairs to building go-carts, Webbies utilize the support of our faculty, staff, and state-of-the-art facilities to pursue their passions. Our reputation for empowering independent projects is a major reason why inspired students choose Webb.

Clarinetist Hanbo Xu ’25 felt Webb’s support as he set out to win the Claremont Young Musicians Orchestra’s Concerto Competition. He has been the Principal Clarinet of the CYMO since his first year at Webb. After practicing the Clarinet Concerto No. 2 by Carl Maria von Weber this summer, he sought help to find a piano accompanist—a requirement of the competition—from the director of instrumental music Linda Silva and fine arts faculty Kyle Champion, who provided him with the contact information of several excellent accompanists.

Xu appreciates that participating in the Webb Sinfonia Orchestra gives him time to concentrate on music and develop his talent.

“The Webb music department has been incredibly important in my development as a musician,” shared Xu. “I’ve learned about phrasing from Mr. Champion, and from Mrs. Silva, I’ve learned how to be a better team player instead of just a soloist. Moreover, the various field trips Mr. Champion and Mrs. Silva have organized—such as going to concerts at Disney Hall, listening to the LA Phil, listening to local musicians and jazz bands from Claremont—have not only taught me about how to make music but also inspired me to become a better musician.”

Xu won the Concerto Competition on November 18. He will perform his winning concerto at the Season Finale Concert on Sunday, June 2, at 7 pm, in the Bridges Hall of Music at Pomona College.