Claremont High School sophomore Caleb Fong won the highly competitive 2023-2024 Dan Stover Music Competition on May 18 with his violin performance of “Introduction and Rondo Capriccioso,” by Camille Saint-Saëns.

Fong’s win at the District 5300 Rotary Foundation Gala in Pomona included $3,000 in prize money. It featured a pool of talented musicians from California east, California west, the high desert, and Las Vegas regions.

“It was pretty exciting,” Caleb told CUSD Celebrates. “I wasn’t expecting to win because there are a lot of good players out there. Playing solo helps me focus and perform under pressure, which is also useful in other areas like playing tennis.”

As concertmaster for the CHS Chamber Orchestra, Caleb is featured in both solo and ensemble performances. He plans to pursue a double major or minor in music in college, alongside interests in business, economics, or medicine. Caleb credits his success to his parents’ support, especially his mother’s background in music.