Student Profile: Caleb Wong, Concerto Competition Winner

For Concerts@Bienen's student spotlight series, we interviewed cellist Caleb Wong, a 2023 winner of Northwestern's Concerto Competition. Caleb will be playing with the Northwestern University Symphony Orchestra on Saturday, February 3 at 7:30 p.m. in Pick-Staiger Concert Hall.

Profile by Ylang Guo

"Caleb Wong posing with his cello against a sunny background"
Photo by Sunkyoung Kim


What do you find most special about Shostakovich's Cello Concerto No. 1?

This concerto has always been one of my favorites within the cello repertoire. It has such incredible momentum, and the drive doesn’t let up until the very last note.

Please share a memorable musical moment that has made an impact on your cello journey.

When I was 14, the owner of a local cafe once asked my sister and I to play background music at his shop because the Sydney Symphony Orchestra were going to stop there for lunch during their regional tour. After some of the most nerve wracking playing of my life, one of them yelled out “play Shostakovich!” Funnily enough, I had just learned the piece and so whipped out the opening to which they all joined in singing the orchestral part. I like to think that means my solo debut was on this concerto with SSO.

What part of your experience at Bienen has been most rewarding for you?

I loved every moment of my two years studying at Bienen. The teaching I received was invaluable, and it was the perfect environment for me to really push myself to achieve bigger goals. I have to say, Calum Cook’s orchestral repertoire class was something else; I definitely couldn’t have won my job without it. 

Are there specific routines you follow before performing on stage?

Even though it doesn’t sound like the best idea, I like listening to a new recording sometimes to give me some fresh inspiration and ideas before a performance. It challenges me to take more musical risks and imbues a level of spontaneity in my playing. Also, no coffee on concert day!

What best describes your goals of incorporating cello into your future?

I was lucky enough to pass my trial with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra recently, so I now hold a permanent section cello seat there. I have recently started enjoying teaching a lot, and would love to get a lot better at that as I find it incredibly rewarding. Apart from my job, I would love to get the chance to work on more solo projects and also play as much chamber music as I can.