Everett C. Leigh - VPS

Everett C. Leigh

Student Ambassador

President, Student Ambassadors program

BIOGRAPHY

Under the distinguished mentorship of Professor Ethan Dong since age nine, fifteen-year-old Everett C. Leigh has established himself as one of the most accomplished young pianists of his generation. His exceptional artistry has earned acclaim from internationally renowned musicians and pedagogues including Professors Boris Berman, William Grant Naboré, Robert McDonald, Baruch Meir, Carol Leone, Inna Faliks, Robert Shannon, and Stanislav Ioudenitch, as well as celebrated pianists Alessandro Deljavan and Eric Lu. 

Everett's competition record is distinguished by victories at the most prestigious international venues, including the Bösendorfer and Yamaha USASU International Piano Competition, where he was named Pianist of the Year at the AD LIBITUM Warsaw International Piano Competition. Additional honors include first place at the SoCalPhil Young Artists Concerto Competition, finalist recognition at the nationally acclaimed From the Top competition and Spotlight Competition, and triumph at the Pearl River Kayserburg International Youth Piano Competition. His remarkable competitive journey encompasses over 50 international victories and has been featured as cover stories in Maestro Magazine and WOMCO. 

As a sought-after soloist, Everett has performed with distinguished orchestras including the Vicente Chamber Orchestra of California, Pacific Symphony, San Diego Symphony, Santa Barbara Symphony, Glendale Youth Orchestra, and SoCal Philharmonic. His performances have illuminated world-class venues such as Carnegie Hall, Disney Hall, the Soka Performing Arts Center, Nixon Library, and Alex Theater, captivating audiences with his mature musicianship and technical brilliance. 

In recognition of his exceptional contributions to international humanitarian efforts through music, Everett holds the unique distinction of being the sole Junior Piano Soloist appointed by the United Nations, representing UNITAR. His performance at the "Piano Recital Recording Concert for Refugees" at the United Nations Plaza in New York was featured in a UN-produced documentary, demonstrating music's power to transcend cultural boundaries and promote global understanding. 

Everett's commitment to social impact extends through his founding of EverEverest Non-Profit Organization, an innovative initiative that empowers underprivileged students to launch entrepreneurial ventures while creating a sustainable ecosystem where successful businesses contribute back to fund future opportunities. This pioneering approach to youth development has garnered widespread recognition and support from community leaders and organizations nationwide. 

His dedication to public service has earned him consecutive Presidential Gold Volunteer Service Awards for three years, along with multiple recognitions from the United States Congress and city mayors, acknowledging his outstanding contributions to community welfare and youth leadership. 

Beyond his musical and philanthropic achievements, Everett demonstrates excellence across diverse disciplines as a champion swimmer and Taekwondo Black Belt holder. His intellectual curiosity extends to expertise in Pokémon lore, while his global perspective is enriched through extensive international travel.