Oliver Mar, cello

Oliver, age 15, was born in Auckland, New Zealand and relocated to New York after being accepted into the Juilliard Pre-College Program where he currently studies with Dr. Clara Minhye Kim. 

Oliver’s playing is distinguished by its rich tone, emotional depth, and technical precision – qualities he skillfully uses to create intimate connections with his audiences. 

In 2025, Oliver was the youngest finalist and the bronze medalist at the 50th Stulberg International Competition. He has also received top prizes in several notable competitions, including the Camerata Artists International Competition, Lancaster Symphony Rising Stars Competition, Bravura Philharmonic Concerto Competition, and the Island Symphony Young Artists Competition. 

At 13, Oliver made his debut with the Orchestra of Camerata New Jersey, and has since performed with the Lancaster Symphony Orchestra, Bravura Philharmonic, Island Symphony Orchestra, Sound Symphony Orchestra, New Zealand Symphony Orchestra and the Kalamazoo Junior Symphony Orchestra. 

Oliver attended the 2024 Morningside Music Bridge summer program, and the Perlman Music Program in 2025, where he studied with renowned teachers to continue growing both technically and artistically. 

Oliver is also an emerging composer, with works performed by members of the New York Philharmonic and featured on WQXR, New York’s classical music station.