Violinist Ray Chen and the LA Phil Announce 'Play with Ray' Competition

World-renowned violinist Ray Chen and the Los Angeles Philharmonic have announced the "Play with Ray" competition. The international skills-based talent search aims to find a violinist to perform Bach's Double Concerto with Ray and the Los Angeles Philharmonic, led by Ben Gernon, at the iconic Hollywood Bowl, Thursday, August 8, 2019.

The idea for "Play with Ray" is one the recently turned 30-year-old has dreamed of for years.

"I want to provide people around the world a fun, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," said Chen. "People who have a dream to perform on stage, this project is for you. I couldn't think of a better partnership to help realize everyone's passion for music than the LA Phil at the Hollywood Bowl."

Entrants can play alongside a video of Ray and the orchestra from the comfort of their own living room, then record and submit along with an essay. The top three finalists will be flown to Los Angeles to play violin with Ray in person on rare violins provided by Tarisio, the leading international establishment of fine instruments and bows. The finalists will also attend masterclasses and concerts in the days leading up to the concert. The grand-prize winner will join Ray and the LA Phil on stage at the Hollywood Bowl, performing the first movement of Bach's Double Violin Concerto at the nearly-18,000-seat venue. The concert will be livestreamed on Facebook and YouTube.

Entry is open to non-professional violinists of all ages and is free.

For further information and to submit an application, please visit hollywoodbowl.com/playwithray.

Ray Chen is a violinist who redefines what it is to be a classical musician in the 21st century. With a media presence reaching millions, Ray Chen's remarkable musicianship transmits to a global audience that is reflected in his engagements with the foremost orchestras and concert halls around the world.