[WEST PALM BEACH, FL] August 5, 2026 — The Miss America Organization is thrilled to announce that musical prodigy Ethan Olaes will perform on the Miss America stage for the fourth consecutive year, continuing a remarkable partnership with Kawai Pianos, the Official Piano of Miss America and the Official Presenting Partner of the Preliminary Talent Awards.
As an internationally recognized musician, Ethan has captivated audiences across the country with his extraordinary talent, mastering more than 13 musical instruments and building a repertoire of over 10,000 songs.
Each year at Miss America, Ethan’s performances have served as a powerful reminder that talent knows no boundaries. His appearances have inspired delegates, audiences, and viewers alike while celebrating the transformative power of music and the limitless potential within every individual.
Beyond the Miss America stage, Ethan has performed at some of the nation’s most prestigious venues, including Carnegie Hall, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Miss America, Disney, Universal, Majestic Hall, Severance Hall, Summer Place, and the Alleluia Ball. Through his performances and philanthropic efforts, he has helped raise millions of dollars for charitable causes.
An accomplished athlete, Ethan’s achievements extend beyond music. He has earned gold medals in tennis at both IMG Academy and the USTA National Campus, as well as a gold medal at the AdventHealth Triathlon.
His name itself carries a meaningful message: E.T.H.A.N. — “Everyone Together Help Autism Now.” It is a mission he fulfills every day by promoting greater understanding, acceptance, and opportunity for individuals with autism and other disabilities.
When asked what distinguishes Ethan as a Kawai Artist, Jerry Porter of Kawai America answered with one word: “Humanity.”
As Ethan returns to the Miss America stage this year, his performance will once again highlight the power of music to unite, uplift, and inspire. His story is one of courage, resilience, and limitless possibility, a testament to the greatness that exists within every individual willing to pursue their dreams.
As the Special Olympics motto reminds us, “Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.” Ethan embodies those words with every note he plays, making his return to Miss America one of this year’s most anticipated and inspiring moments.
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About Miss America’s Scholarship Foundation Inc. (MASF):
Miss America is the nation’s leading empowerment and service platform for young women, supporting their personal and professional growth while inspiring them to serve as positive role models in their communities. Since 1921, Miss America has been dedicated to its mission of
“Empowering Women to Lead,” engaging thousands of young women nationwide, ages 14-28, as local and state brand ambassadors committed to community service.
Through the Miss America’s Scholarship Foundation Inc., a 501(c)(3), the program awards the largest amount of scholarships to women in America.