Thank you to all participants of the 2026 Concerto Competition. This year our competition focused on string instruments only, as we are alternating years between strings and the other instruments of the orchestra. This year’s competition was bigger than ever with talented musicians from all over the east Tennessee region and surrounding states!
Our 2026 winners are:
• Eliana Kováčová, Youth Category: Violin Concerto No.3, Op. 61, Mvt. 1 by Camile Saint-Saëns
• Jackson Sharp, Adult Category: Cello Concerto No.1, Op. 33, Mvt. 1 by Camile Saint-Saëns
Both musicians will perform their winning pieces during our Fall Concert at Sacred Heart Cathedral on Sunday, September 25, 2026.
Jackson Sharp: Winner, Young Adult Category
Jackson Sharp is a cellist from Knoxville, Tennessee, known for his range as a performer, educator, and collaborator. He is passionate about sharing music alongside audiences and students of all backgrounds. He is currently completing his final semester at the University of Tennessee, where he is pursuing a dual degree in Finance with a collateral in Marketing and Applied Music under the instruction of Dr. Wesley Baldwin.
Jackson has performed actively in orchestral and chamber settings throughout Tennessee. He served as Principal Cellist of the Knoxville Symphony Youth Orchestra under James Fellenbaum and earned principal positions in ETSBOA and TMEA honor ensembles during high school. In college, he has performed with the University of Tennessee Symphony Orchestra and regularly substitutes with professional ensembles, including the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra, Bryan Symphony Orchestra, and Johnson City Symphony Orchestra.
In addition to his orchestral work, Jackson performs regularly in chamber music, musical theatre, opera, and contemporary music projects. He values collaboration with musicians from varied backgrounds and seeks to engage audiences through diverse musical styles. Jackson also does wedding freelancing in his spare time.
Jackson is an enthusiastic and dedicated music educator who values giving back to the community. He maintains a private cello studio of about 12 students, ages 6 to 77. Since starting his teaching career in 2023, he has focused on fostering confidence, creativity, and a lasting appreciation for music. After receiving his Suzuki certification in 2024, he incorporated its principles into his teaching. Through individualized instruction, he helps each student achieve their goals while building strong technical and musical foundations.
Jackson will graduate from the University of Tennessee in December with degrees in Finance and Music. Although he plans to pursue a career in finance, he remains committed to music and intends to continue performing and teaching. By maintaining an active studio and performing with professional ensembles in East Tennessee, he aims to stay engaged in the musical community.
Jackson will perform the orchestral orchestration of his winning piece, Cello Concerto No.1, Op.33, Mvt. 1 by Camile Saint-Saëns.