Officials of the National Merit Scholarship Corporation recently announced the names of more than 16,000 semifinalists in the 71st annual National Merit Scholarship Program. These academically talented high school seniors have an opportunity to continue in the competition for some 6,930 National Merit Scholarships worth nearly $26 million that will be offered next spring.

There are three semifinalists from Hopkinton: Lila Harper, Jianing Huang and Simrit Kukreja.

Regional orchestra hosts competition

The Metrowest Symphony Orchestra will host its first Youth Concerto Competition on Saturday, Oct. 25, in the Dwight Performing Arts Center at Framingham State University.

This event is open to those who will be under the age of 18 as of March 31, 2026, who play any orchestral instrument.

Contestants must memorize their concerto selection (up to 15 minutes long) and bring their own accompanist. The winner will perform with the MSO in its March 2026 concert and receive a $400 cash prize.

Applications must be submitted by Sept. 30.

For more information, visit metrowestsymphony.org.