2024 Quebec Music Competition Results
Congratulations to all the winners of the 2024 Quebec Music Competition. We extend our heartfelt thanks to their teachers and parents for their unwavering dedication and support. To those who did not achieve their desired results, please do not be discouraged. Continue to pursue your passion for music and strive for improvement. Remember, music is an art that flourishes with time and perseverance. We eagerly anticipate hearing your performances in the future. Have a wonderful summer, and may you continue to excel in your musical endeavors.
We extend our heartfelt appreciation to our esteemed jury members—Dr. Sungho Park (South Korea), Prof. Teresa Tang (Canada), Dr. Yeh Wei Ding (China), Dr. Angela Chan (Canada), and Prof. Ankhbayar Bayarsaikhan (Mongolia) — for their diligent efforts and invaluable expertise in adjudicating this competition.
Warm regards,
Quebec Music Competition Committee
2024
We extend our heartfelt appreciation to our esteemed jury members—Dr. Sungho Park (South Korea), Prof. Teresa Tang (Canada), Dr. Yeh Wei Ding (China), Dr. Angela Chan (Canada), and Prof. Ankhbayar Bayarsaikhan (Mongolia) — for their diligent efforts and invaluable expertise in adjudicating this competition.
Warm regards,
Quebec Music Competition Committee
2024
We would like to extend our gratitude to the following teachers for their unwavering support and dedicated efforts in preparing and sending their students to participate in the 2024 Quebec Music Competition.
Alina Abraham, Prof. Ana Maria Eckstein, Ms. Anita Cheong, Anna Kihara, Anna Morozova, Judith Van Driel, Anna Zaidman, Prof. Annael, Anne Bader, Antoine van Dongen, Asst. Prof. Apichai Leamthong, Ao Zhang, Aritach Tantipanjwit, Bruce Forman, Cecilia Chan, Cheah Aunjie, Prof. Cherry Rhodes, Chi-ying Hung, Chin-Fei Chan, Chong Yew Hien, Dr. Christopher Janwong McKiggan, Dr. Dante Lorenzo Diianni, Ms. Dan Yu, David Marc Tagle, Dr. Deirdre O'Donohue, Dennis Strawley, Diana Cohen, Dimitri Toufexis, Katy Romanou, Ms. Eenie Chuen, Effie Agrafioti, Dorota Szyszkowska-Janiak, Dorothy Mills, Elina Sovgir, Ernie Saverino, Dr. Esther Joh, Prof. Eva Lue, Evelyn Lee Cha Cha, Franco Platino, Fritz Zumkley, Gao Yuan, George Conway, Gregory Chaverdian, Ms. Hilary Law, Huang He, Iskandar Widjaja, Izabela Szlachta-Dowgiałło, Jargalmaa Sumiyadorj, Jeeae Kim, Jiang Chang, Dr. Joan Tay, Jojo Ponferrada Acosta, Dr. Jolan Kovacs, Juckrit Charoensook, Karina Maucha Cohen, Dr. Kevin Field, Kevin Mulligan, Klara Frei, Ms. Kristin Luo, Ms. Kristine Janusa, Kun Zhou, Kylie Tan, Li Jin, Li Wang, Lialun Chen, Linh Chi Do Hoang, Louis-Philippe Bonin, Lucas Porter, Ms. Luna, Maja Blagojevic, Manel Camp, Matthieu Bélanger, Melody Lin, Nelly Gvasalia, Nicole Ng, None, Nurit Pacht, Onwara Chaisomkun, Patthamaporn Lorthienchai, Peggy Yip, Ms. Peyhwan Kuan, Primoz Parovel, Rain Huang, Rebecca Henry, Dr. Ricardo Martinez, Dr. Ronn Yedidia, Sandra Mika, Sarah Foard, Sarah Molenaar, Ms. Sasipa Rasmidatta, Sergio Vecerina, Slash Leung, Sophia Stoney, Suki Guerrier, Ms. Tansinee Rujipasakul, Tanya Gelman, Tatiana Scott, Prof. Teresa Tang, Mr. Timothy Yuen, Ms. Tina Wong, Trương Văn Tú, Tunde Gaal, Uğur GÜÇLÜTEN, Urangoo Erdenetsogt, Vicente Avella, Volodymyr Trofymov, Wang Li, WASAN KETKEAW, Wendy Woo, Prof. Dr. Wolfram Heicking, Yi-Fang Wu, Yifang Wu, Dr. Yuen Yuen Fei, Yun Ling, Yusela Perez, Dr. Zhenni Li-Cohen, Zhenguo Pang.
Alina Abraham, Prof. Ana Maria Eckstein, Ms. Anita Cheong, Anna Kihara, Anna Morozova, Judith Van Driel, Anna Zaidman, Prof. Annael, Anne Bader, Antoine van Dongen, Asst. Prof. Apichai Leamthong, Ao Zhang, Aritach Tantipanjwit, Bruce Forman, Cecilia Chan, Cheah Aunjie, Prof. Cherry Rhodes, Chi-ying Hung, Chin-Fei Chan, Chong Yew Hien, Dr. Christopher Janwong McKiggan, Dr. Dante Lorenzo Diianni, Ms. Dan Yu, David Marc Tagle, Dr. Deirdre O'Donohue, Dennis Strawley, Diana Cohen, Dimitri Toufexis, Katy Romanou, Ms. Eenie Chuen, Effie Agrafioti, Dorota Szyszkowska-Janiak, Dorothy Mills, Elina Sovgir, Ernie Saverino, Dr. Esther Joh, Prof. Eva Lue, Evelyn Lee Cha Cha, Franco Platino, Fritz Zumkley, Gao Yuan, George Conway, Gregory Chaverdian, Ms. Hilary Law, Huang He, Iskandar Widjaja, Izabela Szlachta-Dowgiałło, Jargalmaa Sumiyadorj, Jeeae Kim, Jiang Chang, Dr. Joan Tay, Jojo Ponferrada Acosta, Dr. Jolan Kovacs, Juckrit Charoensook, Karina Maucha Cohen, Dr. Kevin Field, Kevin Mulligan, Klara Frei, Ms. Kristin Luo, Ms. Kristine Janusa, Kun Zhou, Kylie Tan, Li Jin, Li Wang, Lialun Chen, Linh Chi Do Hoang, Louis-Philippe Bonin, Lucas Porter, Ms. Luna, Maja Blagojevic, Manel Camp, Matthieu Bélanger, Melody Lin, Nelly Gvasalia, Nicole Ng, None, Nurit Pacht, Onwara Chaisomkun, Patthamaporn Lorthienchai, Peggy Yip, Ms. Peyhwan Kuan, Primoz Parovel, Rain Huang, Rebecca Henry, Dr. Ricardo Martinez, Dr. Ronn Yedidia, Sandra Mika, Sarah Foard, Sarah Molenaar, Ms. Sasipa Rasmidatta, Sergio Vecerina, Slash Leung, Sophia Stoney, Suki Guerrier, Ms. Tansinee Rujipasakul, Tanya Gelman, Tatiana Scott, Prof. Teresa Tang, Mr. Timothy Yuen, Ms. Tina Wong, Trương Văn Tú, Tunde Gaal, Uğur GÜÇLÜTEN, Urangoo Erdenetsogt, Vicente Avella, Volodymyr Trofymov, Wang Li, WASAN KETKEAW, Wendy Woo, Prof. Dr. Wolfram Heicking, Yi-Fang Wu, Yifang Wu, Dr. Yuen Yuen Fei, Yun Ling, Yusela Perez, Dr. Zhenni Li-Cohen, Zhenguo Pang.
APPLY for 2024 Quebec Music Competition Certificates and Medals
Dear Winners,
Please ensure you complete the medal and certificate application form to be eligible for your medal and certificate. Applications must be submitted by the deadline of July 16, 2024. Late submissions will not be processed, and you will miss the opportunity to receive your medal and certificate. Please adhere strictly to this deadline.
Quebec Music Competition Committee
Please ensure you complete the medal and certificate application form to be eligible for your medal and certificate. Applications must be submitted by the deadline of July 16, 2024. Late submissions will not be processed, and you will miss the opportunity to receive your medal and certificate. Please adhere strictly to this deadline.
Quebec Music Competition Committee
Certificates available for download for submissions until 13 July 2024 12:27:56
NOTICE:
2024 QMC Medals (REGULAR MAIL) have been sent out on the 20th August 2024.
* Regular mail may take from 4 to 12 weeks (or longer to arrive) depending on the destination country.
2024 Quebec Music Competition
Winner's Online Concert
ABSOLUTE PLATINUM MEDALISTS with scores of 99% & 98%
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Esme Tran - 9 years old - USA - Piano - 99% -
Absolute Platinum Medalist |
Edward Xiong - 10 years old - USA - Piano - 99% -
Absolute Platinum Medalist |
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Sisi Zhou - 11 Years old - Canada - Gu Zheng - 99% -
Absolute Platinum Medalist |
Chanelle He-Lampron - 11 Years old - Canada - Piano - 99% - Absolute Platinum Medalist
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Sacha Jorba-Wu - 11 Years old - Canada - Violin - 99% - Absolute Platinum Medalist
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Justin Zhao - 12 years old - New Zealand - Yang Qin - 99% - Absolute Platinum Medalist
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Sisi Zhou - 11 years old - Canada - Gu Zheng - 99% - Absolute Platinum Medalist
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2024 Quebec Music Competition congratulates all winners, participants, teachers and parents for their hard work and achievements!
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Calissa Poon - 12 Years old - Hong Kong - Piano - 99% - Absolute Platinum Medalist
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Kanyapat Dankul - 13 Years old - Thailand - Piano - 99% - Absolute Platinum Medalist
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Oliver Gruhn - Professional Category - Germany - Composition - 99% - Absolute Platinum Medalist
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Czarnecka Dobromila - Youth Category - 15 years old -Poland - Harp - 99% - Absolute Platinum Medalist
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Clarisse Poon - 15 Years old - Hong Kong - Piano - 99% - Absolute Platinum Medalist
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Nora Xia - 6 years old - USA - Piano - 98% - Absolute Platinum Medalist
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Ivy Zhou - 16 Years old - Canada - Guzheng - 98% - Absolute Platinum Medalist
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Czarnecka Dobromila - 15 years old - Poland - 98% - Absolute Platinum Medalist - Absolute Platinum Medalist
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Kacprzak Anastazja - 15 years old - Poland - Harp - 98% - Absolute Platinum Medalist
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Josephine Van Hoey - 16 years old - USA - 98% - Absolute Platinum Medalist
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Platinum Medalists with scores of 97&% and 96%
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Klaudia Kowalewski - 15 Years old - USA - Piano - 97% - Platinum Medalist
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Owen Smith - 16 Years old - USA - Piano - 97% - Platinum Medalist
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Clarisse Poon - 15 Years old - Hong Kong - Composition - 97% - Platinum Medalist
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Clarisse Chong - 7 Years old - USA - Piano - 96% - Platinum Medalist
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Kornkrit Haruichaiyasak - 8 Years old - Thailand - Piano - 96% - Platinum Medalist
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Jayvon Ong - 10 Years old - USA - Piano - 96% - Platinum Medalist
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Sofie Dardzinski - 13 Years old - USA - Classical Guitar - 96% - Platinum Medalist
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Ramon Civit - Professional Category - Spain - Composition - 96% - Platinum Medalist
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Heidi Robichaud - 17 Years old - Canada - Saxophone - 96% - Platinum Medalist
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Dan Lee - Professional Category - Hong Kong - Composition - 96% - Platinum Medalist
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Platinum Medalists with score of 95%
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Yuet Yi Tsang - 8 Years old - Hong Kong SAR - Piano - 95% - Platinum Medalist
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Katherine Xia - 8 Years old - USA - Piano - 95% - Platinum Medalist
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Jeffrey Zhao - 10 Years old - New Zealand - Er Hu - 95% - Platinum Medalist
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Amelia Kahwaty - 10 Years old - USA - - Piano - 95% - Platinum Medalist
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Angela LI - 11 Years old - Canada - Guzheng - 95% - Platinum Medalist
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Andrii Trofymov - 11 Years old - Canada - Piano - 95% - Platinum Medalist
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Ian Chen - 11 Years old - Canada - Piano - 95% - Platinum Medalist
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Ryan Zhuo-Ran Zhang - 11 Years Old - Canada - Composition - 95% - Platinum Medalist
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Carson Xu - 12 Years Old - Canada - Piano - 95% - Platinum Medalist
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Andy Ping - 13 Years old - USA - Piano - 95% - Platinum Medalist
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Allyson Yu - 14 Years old - USA - Piano - 95% - Platinum Medalist
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Shawinthorn Komolvanij - 16 Years old - Thailand - Voice - 95% - Platinum Medalist
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Ding Chenyi - 13 Years old - Canada - Piano - 95% - Platinum Medalist
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Alexander Knyazyan - 14 Years Old - Canada - Piano - 95% - Platinum Medalist
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Giovanna Pizzutti - 15 Years old - USA - Piano - 95% - Platinum Medalist
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Daniel Rose - 15 Years old - USA - Piano - 95% - Platinum Medalist
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Emily Shi - 15 Years Old - USA - Violin - 95% - Platinum Medalist
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Lucas Wang - 15 Years Old - Violin - 95% - Platinum Medalist
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Junnosuke Yanagisawa - 15 Years Old - USA - Violin - 95% - Platinum Medalist
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Connor Lee - 16 Years Old - USA - Saxophone - 95% - Platinum Medalist
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Marcin Paluch - Collegiate Category - Poland - Violin -95% - Platinum Medalist
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Christina Giannelou - Professional Category - Greece - Piano - 95% - Platinum Medalist
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Xinqian Li - Professional Category - Guitar - USA & China - 95% - Platinum Medalist
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Saturnino Tiamson - Professional Category - Philippines & Hong Kong - 95% - Platinum Medalist
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2024 Quebec Music Competition - Winners' Biographies - Coming soon!
We welcome all winners (Absolute Platinum, Platinum, Gold, Silver and Bronze Medalists, and Honorary Mention Participants to share their photo and bios with us!
Please send your high resolution concert portrait and biography (under 200 words in text form, not in pdf or image format) to our email address: [email protected]
We welcome all winners (Absolute Platinum, Platinum, Gold, Silver and Bronze Medalists, and Honorary Mention Participants to share their photo and bios with us!
Please send your high resolution concert portrait and biography (under 200 words in text form, not in pdf or image format) to our email address: [email protected]
Oliver Gruhn - Professional Category - Germany - Composition - Absolute Platinum Medalist
Oliver Gruhn was born in 1968, at the age of 8 he got trumpet lessons, two years later he was accepted at the special school for music "Hanns Eisler". There he changed to trombone at th age of 12 and studied trombone with Gerhard Haas and composition with Prof. Dr. Wolfram Heicking at the Hochschule für Musik "Hanns Eisler" Berlin. From 1988 until today he has been both deputy principal trombonist and principal trombonist of the Norddeutsche Philharmonie Rostock.
Oliver Gruhn's compositional output is wide-ranging, encompassing chamber music pieces, large-scale symphonic pieces, stage music, jazz compositions, a solo concerto, film music, opera and five major orchestral song cycles. Through the song he has a close collaboration with the soprano Diana Schnürpel since 2020, she has already recorded most of the songs for soprano.
Oliver Gruhn was born in 1968, at the age of 8 he got trumpet lessons, two years later he was accepted at the special school for music "Hanns Eisler". There he changed to trombone at th age of 12 and studied trombone with Gerhard Haas and composition with Prof. Dr. Wolfram Heicking at the Hochschule für Musik "Hanns Eisler" Berlin. From 1988 until today he has been both deputy principal trombonist and principal trombonist of the Norddeutsche Philharmonie Rostock.
Oliver Gruhn's compositional output is wide-ranging, encompassing chamber music pieces, large-scale symphonic pieces, stage music, jazz compositions, a solo concerto, film music, opera and five major orchestral song cycles. Through the song he has a close collaboration with the soprano Diana Schnürpel since 2020, she has already recorded most of the songs for soprano.
Sacha Jorba-Wu - Junior Category - Canada - Violin - Absolute Platinum Medalist
Sacha is an 11 year old Canadian Violinist who started lessons at age 5, and made his
Solo debut (age 6) at Olympic Plaza. He has been a member of 6 orchestras, including the
Elgar Orchestra (2023) where he performed alongside Concertmasters Andrew Wan
(Montreal) and Jonathan Crow (Toronto). Sacha is honoured to be a part of VAM’s
musical family where he works with Dr. Domagoj Ivanovic. Sacha is the founder of Trio-
Magico, a Senior Violinist at Mt Royal Conservatory, and works on his Solo repertoire
with mentor, Concertmaster Diana Cohen.
In 2021, Sacha entered his first music competition and loved it!! From 2021 to present,
he has achieved the highest grades awarded. In CPAF 2024 Sacha won top honours with
distinction in all of his 7 class entries. In 2023, he won all of UPPER STRINGS (all ages)
and went on to win our Provincials (awarded FIRST PLACE for VIOLIN SOLO in the
AMFA finals for 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024). Sacha was the Grand Prize winner of his
age category for all instruments at the Canadian Music Competition for both 2022 in
Québec city (score of 97%) and 2023 in Toronto (score of 99%). Sacha also received the
highest marks in both CMC auditions. In October 2023, Sacha was the 2 nd Grand Prize
winner for Strings for all ages 8-35 in the Vancouver International Music Competition
(VIMC). Sacha won FIRST place in several International competitions from London
(UK) to L.A.(USA).
Starting in Feb.2024 Sacha won top place in the Edith Lando Competition, Pathways, followed by the Rotary C3 Concerto Competition in March, CPAF for all 7 Classes in April, before flying to NYC for the most exciting competition! Sacha won the Final rounds of the Music International Grand Prix and was awarded:
1) First Place for Youth Strings, 2) Audience Favorite Award, and finally, 3) the GRAND PRIX for all ages+ instruments out of 600 competitors worldwide.
In June 2024, Sacha was awarded the Grand Category at OMNI and received the Maestro Yannick Nezet-Seguin Prize.
At age 9, Sacha was honoured to Solo with both the Quebec (July 2022) and Sherbrooke Symphony Orchestras (Dec. 2022). Lastly, he soloed with Mendelssohn Violin Concerto and the Sinfonia Orchestra (Spring 2023). In July 2023, Sacha was invited to perform at the Mozarteum during the Salzburg Festival and Summer Masterclasses. Before returning to Canada for the Parcival Project, Sacha had the opportunity to perform at the Paulo de
la Musica in Barcelona. In September 2023, Sacha was honoured to Solo with the Newfoundland Symphony Orchestra. On June 2 nd , Sacha had the pleasure of Soloing with the Calgary Civic Symphony with his interpretation of Paganini’s Concerto no.1 with the complete Sauret Cadenza.
Sacha is very grateful for the privilege of participating in Masterclasses with Concertmasters Andrew Wan, Gwen Hoebig, Robert Uchida, Diana Cohen, Professors Annalee Patipatanakoon, Ian Swensen, Sharon Wei, and Timothy Chooi.
Sacha has volunteered to perform at patients’ bedsides in hospitals and for senior care homes across Canada. He has travelled to numerous schools and community centres to help share his message of love, peace, and healing through music.
Josephine Van Hoey - Youth Category - USA - Violin - Absolute Platinum Medalist
Josephine Van Hoey has studied violin since age 5, currently with Sarah Foard in Arlington, VA. Josephine has held multiple titled positions with the American Youth Philharmonic Orchestras in progressive ensembles, most recently as assistant principal, violin II, with the Philharmonic (AYP). Throughout the Washington, DC, region, Josephine performs in chamber ensembles with AYPO, her own Two Cities Trio, and the Wakefield Quartet; she also supports the Wakefield HS Jazz Band on upright bass and coaches middle school musicians on violin in the local Music Buddies program. As a soloist, Josephine has earned platinum medals and top rankings for her performances in the 2021 Seattle International Bach Festival for Keyboard and Strings, the 2023 OPUS Competition in the state of Virginia, and the 2024 NVMTA Bach/Baroque Festival and Competition. Outside of music, Josephine enjoys knitting, biking, and lifeguarding.
Dan Lee - Professional Category - Hong Kong - Composition (Orchestra) - Platinum Medalist
Dan is an accomplished Hong Kong-based pianist and composer. Known for her soothing and evocative music, Dan has established herself as a respected figure in the city's vibrant music scene.
Dan's debut piano album, "LOVE NOTES," was released last Christmas to widespread critical acclaim. The album is available on all streaming platforms also there are physical CD and a nicely printing music score books available. The LOVE NOTES showcases her talent for crafting compositions that can "tell stories" through the piano. Several of Dan's works have been selected and featured on RTHK, Hong Kong's premier public radio broadcaster.
In addition to her creative pursuits, Dan is also a highly experienced music educator and competition adjudicator in Hong Kong. She has dedicated herself to nurturing the next generation of musical talent, sharing her expertise and passion with students.
With her debut album firmly establishing her as a capable composer, Dan continues to captivate audiences with her emotive and imaginative piano compositions. This piece Universe In Her Eyes, is one of the latest work she devoted into composing orchestra.
Saturnino Tiamson - Professional Category - Philippines & Hong Kong - Drums - Platinum Medalist
Satur, an accomplished musician, has garnered prestigious awards. In 2024, he was acknowledged as Asia's Influential Musician by Asia's Influential Leader Awards, adding to his title as Asia's Reputable International Musician from Asia's Pinnacle Awards in 2023. Noteworthy accomplishments include The Outstanding Young Men for Arts in Music by JCI Philippines (TOYM) and the 2018 Presidential Award by the Commission on Filipinos Overseas, both praised by the President of the Philippines. Time Out Magazine recognized his talent by featuring him among the Top 20 Musicians in Hong Kong in 2008. Satur's success extends to winning multiple gold medals at the 20th World Championships of Performing Arts in Los Angeles, USA, in 2016 and securing 2nd Prize at the 14th edition of the Italy Percussion Competition in Pescara, Italy, for the Drum Set Category. Additionally, from 2021 to 2023, he excelled in online competitions, seizing over 20 first prize awards in Drum Set and Percussion Categories worldwide.
Satur's educational achievements are impressive, including a Diploma in Music with a Major in Percussion from the University of the Philippines College of Music. He also holds a Bachelor's degree in Percussion Performance from St. Paul Manila University College of Music and the Performing Arts. Furthermore, Satur earned a Specialist Certificate in Drums from Berkleemusic Online Extension School by Berklee College of Music. He also holds ABRSM and Rock School Certificates.
Satur's notable professional journey features his tenure as the band leader for the Hong Kong Disneyland Band from 2005 to 2015. He has showcased his talents alongside distinguished orchestras like the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra, San Miguel Philharmonic Orchestra, and has served as the former Principal Percussionist of the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra and Metro Manila Community Orchestra. Furthermore, Satur has enriched his musical experiences by touring Asia with the Asian Youth Orchestra in 2001 and 2004, as well as participating in the Southeast Asian Youth Wind Ensemble in Thailand in 2003. Presently, he contributes as the Co-Principal Percussionist and guest solo drummer for the Kong Metropolitan Pop Orchestra.
Throughout his career, Satur has been involved in over 20 productions in Hong Kong and Manila, including notable performances like the International premiere of Fun Home, the Asian premiere of Matilda, Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, Kinky Boots, Side Show, Waitress, and many more. In Hong Kong, he showcased his talent as a percussionist in the award-winning musical, The Woman in Kenzo by Chung Ying Theatre Company, and in various musicals under the Hong Kong Academy of Performing Arts School of Drama, Hong Kong Singers, HK 3 Arts Musical Institute, HKUST, and Hong Kong Players. Satur has also performed as a percussionist at the Grasshopper Concert in 2022, featuring legendary Cantopop artists, and with numerous other artists in Hong Kong.
His recent performances include serving as a Body Percussionist in the World and London premiere of WILD (The Musical) by the City Chamber Orchestra of Hong Kong, and as a guest percussionist at the City Chamber Orchestra of Hong Kong in concerts such as The Snowman & the Bear and the Harry Potter Concert. In 2024, he is performing as a drummer at Disney in Concert with the HKSW Symphony Orchestra.
As an educator, Satur has conducted percussion and drum clinics and workshops at various festivals, including the 48th Annual Percussive Arts Society International Convention (virtually/USA), the International Fringe Association Percussion Festival in Initial-P (HK), the Gip Percussion Summer Festival (HK), the Hong Kong International Drummer Festival. He has also presented and performed at TEDx Hong Kong and TEDx HKU.
Satur currently teaches at multiple schools, studios, and academies across Hong Kong. He is a member of the Board of Advisors at the Percussive Arts Society (US), the PAS World Percussion Committee (US), and the President of the PAS Philippine Chapter (PAS Outstanding Chapter Awardee 2021).
Furthermore, Satur is the Owner/CEO of STIX Academy of Music and Performing Arts in Hong Kong, and proudly endorses Zildjian Cymbals, Prologix pads, Grover Pro Percussion, Innovative Percussion, and Toca Percussion.
Xinqian Li - China - Professional Category - Guitar - Platinum Medalist
Xinqian Li, a composer and jazz guitarist, a lifetime member of Pi Kappa Lambda of the American music honor society. Resides in Los Angeles and she is currently pursuing a Doctor Degree in studio jazz guitar at the University of Southern California Thornton School of Music. Her musical style is heavily influenced by traditional jazz, and she consistently strives to develop her own distinctive sound. She composes a diverse range of traditional and contemporary jazz pieces for large ensembles. Prior to her involvement in jazz guitar, she dedicated many years to studying fingerstyle guitar and has received numerous awards in various competitions. In 2018, she was invited to perform at the Big Apple Music Festival at Queens College in New York. In 2019, she performed with the Jazz Big Band in Zhuhai, China, sharing the stage with numerous musicians from China's jazz community. In 2021, she was invited to form a swing septet with professors from China's Sichuan Conservatory of Music, which regularly performs at the Chengdu Riverside Jazz Club and Oak Nose Jazz Club. She also participated in the China Swing Music Festival that same year. Concurrently, she released four singles on NetEase Cloud Music, formed her own trio, and began touring southwest China. From 2021 to 2023, she was awarded the USC Thornton Music Scholarship for two consecutive years. In 2023, she received a full scholarship to the Berklee College of Music Summer Program and performed in a big band in Boston. That same year, she won gold medals at the Universal Stars and Global International Music Competitions and was invited to play on “Hit The Wall’’ musicial directed by Gregg T. Daniel and Chevaughan Dyer. In 2024, she joined the jazz big band led by Dr. David Moyer and the rock blues trio led by German drummer Vera Carter, and also led her own composition's jazz quintet. She acquired her knowledge from Bruce Forman, Tim Kobza, Richard Smith, Josh Nelso
Andy Ping - USA - Youth Category - Piano - Platinum Medalist
Andy Ping is a 13-year-old junior high school student from California. Andy started his piano journey at the age of 6, with his first piano teacher Ms. Ophelia Raboca. He is currently studying under Dr. Dante Lorenzo Dilanni at Pacific Piano School. Andy has competed successfully in several competitions, including the United States Open Music Competition, the United States International Music Competition, and the “Encore” Competition, where he has won a number of 1st place prizes and scholarships. Besides piano, Andy has been learning flute for more than three years and plays the flute in his school band. In his free time, he enjoys playing tennis, reading, watching videos about science, and playing chess with his friends.
YuenMei Choi - Hong Kong - Professional Category - Harp - Gold Medalist
YuenMei CHOI is a skilled musician proficient in both harp and traditional Chinese musical instruments. Driven by her passion for music, CHOI has a vision of bridging the worlds of Western and Chinese music through collaborative performances. CHOI received the guidance from internationally renowned harpist Ms. Dan Yu. She has gained valuable performance experience and showcased her talents in a variety of performances, including the Carol Singing Festival, annual university orchestra concerts, and collaborations with popular singers. CHOI has also participated in international events, such as harp ensemble performances at the World Harp Congress in Australia and Hong Kong, as well as the Asia Harp Festival in Korea. In addition to her harp mastery, CHOI is adept at playing Chinese instruments like the Guzheng and Pipa. She has shared her musical expertise through performances for diverse community and charitable organizations, and has also coordinated numerous Guzheng ensembles. Currently, CHOI is pursuing a Master of Arts in Music degree at The Chinese University of Hong Kong. Alongside her studies, she is the founder of Minerva Music and Art Studio, where she continues to nurture her passion for cross-cultural musical exploration and collaboration.
IGNACY SKIBIŃSKI - Poland - Youth Category - 15 Years old - Tympani - Gold Medalist
I was born on July 12, 2008. At the age of 9, I started studying at the Music
School in Gniezno in class 4 of drums with Mr. Łukasz Berlin. In 2019, I won
an honorable mention at the Gostyńskie Konfrontacje Młodych Drum Players
competition. Since 2020, my teacher is Mrs. Sandra Mika. In 2021, I won the
second prize in the Sokołowski Music Culture Competition. A year later, in
2022, I won 3rd place in the Opus International Music Competition. In 2024,
I won 1st place in the Warsaw Virtuoso Competition.
Apart from music, I am interested in sports (swimming and football). I like
watching movies, especially Quentin Tarantino.
Audrey Su Pu - Philippines - Youth Category - 16 years old - Piano - Gold Medalist
Playing the piano was definitely something that grew on me more throughout my life. Growing up attending international schools in the Philippines, all I wanted to do as a kid was play football or reread my Harry Potter books. Although I started playing the piano relatively young at 7 years old, I never gave much thought into piano practice and would waste half the time in front of the keys laying down sideways on the stool or taking an unnecessary amount of water breaks. Over the years, though, experimenting with composers from Debussy to Chopin have altered my view on piano. Exploring different genres of music, such as impressionism and jazz, has become a fun pastime and has provided me with wonderful opportunities to share my passion with a variety of peers. For instance, along with the high school jazz band, I am part of a rock band that me and my friends formed together. Although performing is often nerve-wrecking, I always value those brief minutes on stage, where me and the audience travel to an alternate dimension of harmonious melodies and vibrant colors. While everybody paints a different musical world, I hope that each world possesses something beautiful.
Kyla Ruidera – USA – Youth Category – 14 years old – Piano – Gold Medalist
Kyla is a high school student from California. She began playing piano at age 4 and has learned
under the tutelage of Anne Isaakyan Bäder, a graduate of the Leningrad Conservatory in Russia.
Kyla has performed the last three years at Carnegie Hall in New York as a multiple-award
recipient of the AADGT International Young Musicians Festival (Gold in 2020, 2023, 2024,
Silver in 2021, 2022). She received multiple medals at the Quebec International Music
Competition (Gold in 2021, 2022, Silver in 2023) and two Silver Medals at the North American
Virtuoso International Music Competition (2021). Kyla has won trophies for various categories
at the Southwestern Youth Music Festival (Los Angeles) from 2018 through 2023. She earned
Silver Awards at WPTA Singapore and Bronze Awards at WPTA Finland from 2020 through 2023.
Kyla enjoys reading and spending time with her family.
Liam Ruidera – USA – Youth Category – 12 years old – Piano – Gold Medalist
Liam is a junior high school student from California. He began playing piano at age 4 and has
learned under the tutelage of Anne Isaakyan Bäder, a graduate of the Leningrad Conservatory
in Russia. Liam has performed the last two years at Carnegie Hall in New York as a multiple-
award recipient of the AADGT International Young Musicians Festival (Silver in 2023 & 2024).
He received the Gold medal at the Quebec International Music Competition in 2023. Aside from
piano, Liam also enjoys playing the clarinet. He is an avid LEGO builder and video game player.
Shi Pu, Oscar - Philippines - Youth Category - 14 years old - Piano - Gold Medalist
As a child, I started learning piano at the age of 6 and didn't like music all that much. Practicing felt like a chore compared to a hobby, and I couldn't meet the standards that I was expected to reach. However, I rediscovered my love for music during the pandemic, and started to enjoy it more and more. Now, at 14 years old, I present the piece: Nocturne op. 48 no. 1 by Chopin. This is a piece that I have loved for a long time, but it was always just a bit too difficult to learn. While I still have much to learn and improve on, learning this piece is a milestone for me and I am proud of what I have accomplished. I look forward to playing many more pieces in the future.
Trương Tú Anh - Vietnam - Junior Category - 9 years old - Piano - Gold Medalist
Trương Tú Anh is currently a primary school student in Vietnam. She is also in
2 nd year as a student at Department of Piano, Hanoi College of Art, Vietnam. She
enjoys playing the piano with classical pieces of music. She wishes to become a
pianist.
Joseph Zhang - Canada - Junior Category - 8 years old - Piano - Gold Medalist
Joseph Zhang is from Toronto, Canada. He is 8 years old and started learning the piano at the
age of 5. Since 2023, Joseph has won more than 20 top awards in various international and
Canadian music festivals and competitions, including the platinum prize of “UK Best Classical
Musicians Awards”, the 1 st place in the “Crescendo International Music Competition”, the gold
medal in the “Steinway Piano Competition Canada”, the gold award in the “Canadian
International Music Competition”, the 1 st place in the “CCC Toronto International Music
Competition”, and the 2 nd place in the OMFA Ontario provincial finals. Joseph also loves singing
and playing ukulele. He performs at local charity concerts. Joseph hopes he can help and inspire
people by sharing his music.
Jeremy Zhang - Canada - Junior Category - 10 years old - Piano - Gold Medalist
Jeremy Zhang is from Toronto, Canada. He is 10 years old and started learning the piano at the
age of 7. Since 2023, Jeremy has won more than 15 top awards in various international and
Canadian music festivals and competitions, including the platinum award in the “Canadian
International Music Competition”, the gold medal in the “Steinway Piano Competition Canada”,
the 1 st place in the “Crescendo International Music Competition”, the 1 st place in the “SSP Sea to
Sky International Piano Competition”, and the 2 nd place in the OMFA Ontario provincial finals.
Jeremy also loves making arts. His art works have been displayed on the Art Gallery of Ontario
website and won the “Star Artist” award in the 2023 Picasso Art Contest.
Claire Chang - Junior Category - 11 Years old - Canada - Voice - Gold Medalist
Claire Chang started singing at the age of 4 and playing the piano at the age of 5. She has now reached the level of RCM9 in piano. In 2022, she participated in the CANIMEX Canadian Music Competition and entered the final phase of the competition in Quebec City. Claire sings in four languages: English, French, Chinese and Spanish. She frequently performs in concerts as well as performs in community events. Claire can accompany her own songs on piano and guitar. She won the silver medal in the Cultures of China Water Cube Cup for Chinese Song Contest, which is a major music and cultural event in the global Chinese community. Claire's dedication to singing paid off in the 2024 Quebec Music Competition, where she won the gold medal in Voice. In additional to singing and playing piano, Claire has many other interests and hobbies. She likes sports such as tennis, swimming, chess, skating and skiing.
Izabela Wiktoria Oliwia Torfs - Junior - 11 years old - (Belgian/Polish) born - Violin / Composition - Gold Medalist
She started learning violin from S.Erkmenis in May 2019. In 2022 A.Morozova also became Izabela’s violin tutor. In September 2019, Izabela added piano to her curriculum, under tutorship of H.Keser.
Since April 2023 Izabela started self-study in composition and began to compose complete pieces winning fast her first prizes in composition music competitions. Up till now she wrote more than 40 compositions.
In September 2023, during a violin audition for the Conservatorium van Amsterdam's Sweelinck Academy (Young Talents) she was playing, o.a., Mozart Concerto in G major with her own cadenza. J.van Driel became Izabela’s violin tutor in the Conservatorium.
In the beginning of January 2024 Izabela received Fourth Degree Prize in Elementary International category at the XVII Golden Key Piano Composition Competition 2024 for her suite “A school for vampires” (for violin+piano) and was selected to participate in the World Composers Recital at the Golden Key Music Festival in Vienna in July/August 2024.
In February 2024 Izabela was selected for Career Project Prize with the Tiziano Rossetti International Music Academy for her composition “Understanding “R.I.P” in cat.A (max age 13) via the 4th Lugano International Online Music Competition. In April 2024 she also started to learn alto saxophone from S. Styles. She also participated in the 2023 Charity Online Fund Raising Concert Event, “Harmonies for the Wild: Uniting Music and Nature in the Fight Against Wildfires”.
In her spare time, Izabela enjoys reading books and comics, making her own jewellery and writing book stories, also supporting them with her own music compositions. Izabela also loves rollerblades, wall climbing, and horse riding. She is an animal and nature lover.
Calvin To - Youth Category - 12 years old - USA - Piano - Gold Medalist
Calvin loves music and has been playing the piano for seven years. He also has studied cello for almost four years now. Calvin has made significant progress in his music studies and received high marks with distinction for his piano and cello exams from Royal Conservatory of Music and Trinity College London. He serves as the cello section leader in his school orchestra and is also a cellist in one of the string quartets at The Music Matters Foundation, performing regularly for charitable and educational communities. Additionally, he has participated in various local and international music competitions, receiving top honors. Outside of music, Calvin enjoys playing various sports such as ultimate frisbee, flag football, basketball, and badminton. He aspires to become a music conductor in the future.
Donovan To - Youth Category - 14 years old - USA - Piano - Gold Medalist
Donovan loves music and has been playing piano for about 9 years (since he was five). Before the pandemic, he started learning the violin and has been playing violin for almost five years. Donovan has been progressing through his music studies and earned high marks with distinction in both piano and violin exams including Royal Conservatory of Music and Trinity College London. He participates in the school orchestra as the concertmaster. He also participated in the WMEA All-State Honor for violin in 2024. He plays as first violinist in the string quartet of The Music Matters Foundation which he performs regularly at charitable and educational communities. He competed in various local and international music competitions for both piano and violin and received top awards. In addition to learning classical music, Donovan and his younger brother took drums, guitar, and bass lessons. Both of them enjoyed composing classical, rock and pop songs with their teachers by utilizing the music theory and harmony that they learned in past years. Outside of music, he enjoys various sports including cross-country, badminton, football, and ultimate frisbee. He loves to read and draw in his spare time.
Angelina Lee - Professional Category - Canada - Piano - Silver Medalist
Angelina is a University of Alberta after-degree Music student studying the piano with Dr. Zhenni Li-Cohen with a plan to pursue a Master's in Piano Performance. She began learning the piano at the age of 6 in South Korea. Despite taking a break from piano lessons for several years due to personal reasons, she was able to resume playing again in the winter of 2022 with the firm dream of performing and teaching the piano to spread the joy of music playing and inspire others to pursue what excites their heart.
In 2023-2024, she performed on the piano and percussion with the University of Alberta’s University Symphony Orchestra (USO) and concert band. Quebec International Music Competition 2024 was the first piano competition she entered since she resumed playing the piano professionally. She achieved a Gold medal in the North American Virtuoso International Music Competition following the silver award in the Quebec Music competition. She plans to be involved in more performance and competition opportunities to build her musical skills and professional experiences.
Henry Chen - Junior Category - 11 years old - Canada - Saxophone - Silver Medalist
Henry Chen is an energetic and talented 11-year-old boy with a passion for music. Despite being new to the world of saxophone, having picked up the instrument just eight months ago, Henry’s dedication and natural aptitude have already begun to shine.
From the moment he first held the saxophone, Henry was captivated by its rich, soulful sound. He immersed himself in learning, practicing diligently every day after school. His commitment quickly paid off, and his progress has been nothing short of remarkable.
Recently, Henry’s hard work culminated in a proud moment when he participated in his first music competition. Competing against many experienced young musicians, Henry's exceptional performance earned him a prestigious silver medal. This achievement not only reflects his talent but also his determination and love for the saxophone.
Outside of music, Henry enjoys playing soccer with his friends and exploring the outdoors. He is a bright and curious student, always eager to learn new things and take on new challenges. With his positive attitude and unwavering dedication, there's no doubt that Henry will continue to achieve great things both in music and beyond.
Alex Yefremov - Junior Category - 8 years old - Canada - Piano - Silver Medalist
Alex Yefremov is a talented 8-year-old Canadian pianist. He was born in Toronto, Canada to the family of professional pianists. His parents received professional music education in Ukraine and Canada. Alex takes piano lessons from his mother, pianist and composer Elina Sovgir. At the age of 5, Alex received three First Places at North York Music Festival in Toronto and was advanced to participate in the Ontario Provincial Competition. He participates in North York competition annually, receiving top awards, medals and trophies. In 2023, at the age of 7, Alex won top prizes in 5 international music competitions: London International Music Competition - Third Prize, Medici International Music Competition - Third Prize, World Classical Music Award Competition - Platinum Prize, Global Classical Music Championship - Platinum Prize, 21st Century Prominent Musicians Award Competition - Gold Prize. He was awarded Region Representative Special Prizes in the latter two competitions for achieving the highest score to represent Canada. In 2024, Alex received four First Places and a trophy at North York Music Festival in Toronto, Platinum Award and Poetic Artistic Musical Genius Special Prize at Global Genius Music Competition, and Platinum Prize and Technical Brilliance Special Award at Best Classical Musicians Awards. Alex Yefremov's name has been added to the World Online Music Competitions Organization winners list.
Anvitha Tungala - Junior Category - USA - Piano - Silver Medalist
Anvitha Tungala is 8 years old, and has been playing the piano for three years. In her free time, she enjoys reading and creating art. She lives in New Jersey, with her parents, sister, and dog. Anvitha is taught piano by Ms. Kristine Janusa, and with whom she’s improving her musicality as well as her technical skills. Anvitha is a returning contestant, and she is excited to continue her musical journey.
Ugur Gucluten - Open Category - Turkey - Composition - Silver Medalist
I was born in Izmir (TURKEY) in 1960. I graduated from Dokuz Eylül University
Izmir State Conservatory in 1985. In 1986, I entered the Ankara State Opera
and Ballet as an Opera Chorus Artist (TENOR). I retired in 2017. I currently live
in Izmir and work as a vocal coach and voice and opera instructor. Also, my
composition work continues. My hobbies include taking videos and
photographs. I love traveling and nature, and I use nature in my photographs.
I have visited many countries of the world. I love Italy the most. And I am a
fan of Italy's great artist "Adriano CELENTANO". And as the administrator of
many artist-related groups on Facebook, I have undertaken a spiritual mission
without earning any financial income.
William Vo - Junior Category - Canada - Piano - Bronze Medalist
William Vo was born on May 5 th2016. He is currently a grade 2- student at Armand-Frappier School at Saint-Constant City (Quebec, Canada). William expressed his great interest in playing piano at the age of three. He asked his mother to help him find a piano teacher who could teach him how to play the very interesting instrument in the living room in his house. Since he was too young, both his mother and the piano teach were not sure if he was ready enough for the 45- minute piano lessons. They were not disappointed. William really enjoyed the lessons. He continues to show his deep interest with piano throughout the following years. He loves playing the classical pieces with his piano teacher and his family.
Quebec Music Competition was the first music competition that William participated. Before that, he was not aware that there were competitions out there. He simply thinks that piano is a fun game, and the sweet feeling when being able to play a whole new piece is already an award. It was a big surprise when he found his name in the result list of the Quebec Music Competition. The bronze medal encourages him a lot after years of playing piano. The competition gave him a great chance to learn and to improve himself. He is very much eager to join and overcome more and more exciting challenges ahead. Beside the hobby of playing piano, William is also very interested in swimming, taekwondo and playing chess. He is also a big fan of the Japanese manga series Doreamon.