Ramón appears on Show 473.

Ramón Campos (violin), 17, lives in Rochester, Minnesota, and is currently a senior at Mayo High School. He began teaching himself violin in sixth grade, relying largely on YouTube videos and guidance from friends. Through a generous teacher, he was able to have his first formal lessons once he entered high school. Ramón has served as Principal Second Violin of the Minnesota All-State Orchestra and is a six-year member of the Southeastern Minnesota Youth Orchestras (SEMYO), where he was named winner of the concerto competition in 2024. This past summer, he had the opportunity to perform and tour as a member of Carnegie Hall’s National Youth Orchestra 2.

Beyond performance, Ramón is passionate about expanding access to music education. He teaches violin/viola lessons to younger students, many free of charge, and recently launched a mentorship program within SEMYO, connecting less-experienced players with older orchestra members for guidance and support. In 2024, he won the individual category in the national Music Matters Challenge, awarding him funding to expand Donut Dash, a student-led 5k fundraiser that provides scholarships for student-athletes in the arts. Outside of music, Ramón enjoys reading and running with his cross-country team.

Receiving the Award will support Ramon’s music education by providing the opportunity to take more regular private lessons. The funds will also allow Ramon to purchase an instrument that will carry him through college and beyond.