2025 Quebec Music Competition Results
Warmest congratulations to all the outstanding participants of the 2025 Quebec Music Competition!
We celebrate the accomplishments of this year’s winners and commend the teachers and families whose steadfast encouragement and support helped make their achievements possible.
For those who may not have reached the results they were hoping for—please remember that every performance is a stepping stone toward growth. Let this experience inspire you to keep refining your craft. Music is a lifelong journey, and its true beauty unfolds through dedication and resilience.
We look forward to hearing your continued musical progress in the years ahead. Wishing everyone a joyful summer and continued success in your artistic pursuits.
A special note of gratitude goes to our distinguished panel of adjudicators:
Dr. Sungho Park (South Korea), Prof. Teresa Tang (Canada), Dr. Yeh Wei Ding (China), Dr. Angela Chan (Canada), and Prof. Ankhbayar Bayarsaikhan (Mongolia), whose insight and commitment have been central to the success of this year’s event.
With appreciation,
Quebec Music Competition Committee
2025
We celebrate the accomplishments of this year’s winners and commend the teachers and families whose steadfast encouragement and support helped make their achievements possible.
For those who may not have reached the results they were hoping for—please remember that every performance is a stepping stone toward growth. Let this experience inspire you to keep refining your craft. Music is a lifelong journey, and its true beauty unfolds through dedication and resilience.
We look forward to hearing your continued musical progress in the years ahead. Wishing everyone a joyful summer and continued success in your artistic pursuits.
A special note of gratitude goes to our distinguished panel of adjudicators:
Dr. Sungho Park (South Korea), Prof. Teresa Tang (Canada), Dr. Yeh Wei Ding (China), Dr. Angela Chan (Canada), and Prof. Ankhbayar Bayarsaikhan (Mongolia), whose insight and commitment have been central to the success of this year’s event.
With appreciation,
Quebec Music Competition Committee
2025
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 2025 Quebec Music Competition.
Ana Dorbac, Anita Wong, Anna Kihara, Anna Zaidman, Aset Sabdulaeva, Ashkhen Minasyan, Cathal Breslin, Chantal Dionne, Chi-Ying Hung, Dr. Cristian Neacsu, Dr. Juckrit Charoensook, Dr. Reena Kim, Elizabeth Faidley, Enrico Ferri, Eric Lam, Francesca Arnone, Gansca Alexandru-Horia, Gene Liu, Geng, Hye Min Yun, Janey Scott, Jargalmaa, Jargalmaa Sumiyadorj, Jennifer Cabot and Olga Romanko, Johan Struyve, Jonathan Grantham, Judy, Juergen Kursawa, Judith van Driel, Kilby Lee, Kimihiro Yasaka, Kor'ee Jackson, Kristine Janusa, Kun Zhou, Köte Zoltán, KUN ZHOU, Li Jin, Louis Adriatico, LVL Music Academy, Lydia Andreeva, M. Oyunsuvd, Maja Blagojevic, Maria Tilinca, Mariangela Longo, Mario Di Blasio, Martina Fedele, Meritxell Cusido, Miss Natrawe Wongariyakawe, Ms Jayeeta Bose, Natasha Liu, Nomin Erdene, Onwara Chaisomkun, Peyhwan Kuan, Phurin Khum-Orn, Prof. Ana Maria Eckstein, Prof. Teresa Tang, Prof. Thomas Simaku, Prof. Yova Yordanova, Ronn Yedidia, Sandy Chin, Shaun Skaria, Sek Thongsuwan, Sophia Stoney, Sow Mun Fan, Suphitsara Saengcharoen, Teresa Tang, Theodore Antoniou, Tinatin Kakabadze, Victor Moldovanov, Yi-Fang Wu, and Yvonne Lau
Ana Dorbac, Anita Wong, Anna Kihara, Anna Zaidman, Aset Sabdulaeva, Ashkhen Minasyan, Cathal Breslin, Chantal Dionne, Chi-Ying Hung, Dr. Cristian Neacsu, Dr. Juckrit Charoensook, Dr. Reena Kim, Elizabeth Faidley, Enrico Ferri, Eric Lam, Francesca Arnone, Gansca Alexandru-Horia, Gene Liu, Geng, Hye Min Yun, Janey Scott, Jargalmaa, Jargalmaa Sumiyadorj, Jennifer Cabot and Olga Romanko, Johan Struyve, Jonathan Grantham, Judy, Juergen Kursawa, Judith van Driel, Kilby Lee, Kimihiro Yasaka, Kor'ee Jackson, Kristine Janusa, Kun Zhou, Köte Zoltán, KUN ZHOU, Li Jin, Louis Adriatico, LVL Music Academy, Lydia Andreeva, M. Oyunsuvd, Maja Blagojevic, Maria Tilinca, Mariangela Longo, Mario Di Blasio, Martina Fedele, Meritxell Cusido, Miss Natrawe Wongariyakawe, Ms Jayeeta Bose, Natasha Liu, Nomin Erdene, Onwara Chaisomkun, Peyhwan Kuan, Phurin Khum-Orn, Prof. Ana Maria Eckstein, Prof. Teresa Tang, Prof. Thomas Simaku, Prof. Yova Yordanova, Ronn Yedidia, Sandy Chin, Shaun Skaria, Sek Thongsuwan, Sophia Stoney, Sow Mun Fan, Suphitsara Saengcharoen, Teresa Tang, Theodore Antoniou, Tinatin Kakabadze, Victor Moldovanov, Yi-Fang Wu, and Yvonne Lau
APPLY for 2025 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, 2025. 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, 2025. 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 are now available for all winners who submitted their forms prior to 8:00 p.m. (Eastern Time) on 15 June 2025.
** IMPORTANT NOTE:
Our organization maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward harassment, abusive behavior, and libelous statements directed at our staff, adjudicators, or competition platform.
All participants, parents, and representatives are expected to communicate with professionalism and mutual respect. Should any form of hostile, defamatory, or inappropriate behavior occur, the competition reserves the right to take immediate disciplinary action, including but not limited to:
Our organization maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward harassment, abusive behavior, and libelous statements directed at our staff, adjudicators, or competition platform.
All participants, parents, and representatives are expected to communicate with professionalism and mutual respect. Should any form of hostile, defamatory, or inappropriate behavior occur, the competition reserves the right to take immediate disciplinary action, including but not limited to:
- Revocation of any awarded prize(s), and
- Permanent disqualification and ban from future participation in any of our competitions.
2025 Quebec Music Competition
Winner's Online Concert
FEATURING ABSOLUTE PLATINUM MEDALISTS & PLATINUM MEDALISTS
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Panagiotis Fournarakis - Above 19 - Professional Category - Greece - Composition - 99% - Absolute Platinum Medalist
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Esme Tran - Junior Category - 10 years old - USA - Piano - 98% -
Absolute Platinum Medalist |
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Alice Hu - 17 Years old - Collegiate Category - USA - Flute - 98% - Absolute Platinum Medalist
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Aiden Liu - 12 Years old - Youth Category - USA - Piano - 97% - Platinum Medalist
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Alyssa Kwon- 16 Years old - Youth Category - USA - Clarinet - 96% - Platinum Medalist
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Wu Yanjiao - Above 19 - Professional Category - Canada - Organ - 97% - Platinum Medalist
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Aishe Jao - 7 years old - Junior Category - USA - Piano - 96% - Platinum Medalist
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Andrew Liu - 14 Years old - Youth Category - Canada - Violin - 96% - Platinum Medalist
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Giusy Ines Tuttolomondo - Above 19 - Professional Category - Italy - Piano - 96% - Platinum Medalist
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Yue Ming - Above 19 - Professional Category - China - Composition - 96% - Platinum Medalist
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Izabela Wiktoria Oliwia Torfs - 12 years old - Youth Category - Belgium / Poland - Violin - 96% - Platinum Medalist
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Shawn Guo - 8 years old - Junior Category - USA - Piano - 95% - Platinum Medalist
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Ella Legato - 9 Years old - Junior Category - USA - Piano - 95% - Platinum Medalist
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William Vo - 9 years old - Junior Category - Canada - Piano - 95% - Platinum Medalist
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Marina Nikola - 13 Years old - Youth Category - Bulgaria - Violin - 95% - Platinum Medalist
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Théo Wen-Wang - 15 years old Youth Category - Violin - Canada - 95% - Platinum Medalist
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Nico Macario - 18 years old - Collegiate Category - Canada - Composition 95% - Platinum Medalist
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Rui Xi - Above 19 - Professional Category - Piano - USA - 95% - Platinum Medalist
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Siravich Ittisattha - 9 Years old - Junior Category - Thailand - Piano - 95% - Platinum Medalist
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Majoros Milos - 15 Years old - Youth Category - Hungary - Percussion - 95% - Platinum Medalist
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Isabelle Ka Yu Wong - 15 Years old - Youth Category - Canada - Piano - 95% - Platinum Medalist
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The Quebec Music Competition extends its sincere congratulations to all 2025 winners and participants, and expresses heartfelt appreciation to their dedicated teachers and supportive parents
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2025 Quebec Music Competition – Winners’ Biographies (Coming Soon)
We invite all winners — including Absolute Platinum, Platinum, Gold, Silver, and Bronze Medalists, as well as recipients of the Honorary Mention — to submit their professional photo and biography for inclusion in our official Winners’ Biographies page.
Please email the following to [email protected]
- A high-resolution concert portrait
- A biography (maximum 200 words), submitted as text in the body of the email — please do not send PDF or image files
2025 Quebec Music Competition Winners' Biographies
Giusy Ines Tuttolomondo - Professional Category - Piano - Platinum Medalist - Italy
Giusy Ines Tuttolomondo was born in Ribera (AG) on 21/01/1992. She graduated in Piano with the top marks in the Conservatory of Music "A. Toscanini" of Ribera under the guidance of prof.ssa Mariangela Longo. She graduated later in the 2nd specialist level at the Conservatory of Music "L. Cherubini" of Florence under the guidance of prof. Giuseppe Tanzini. She obtained the Master in "New didactic strategies in teaching disciplines of music education", in "Professional music educator" and in "Forms and history of musical civilization".
She was awarded National and International piano competitions: "Golden Classical Music Awards" International Music Competition of New York, International Music Competition "Grand Prize Virtuoso" of Rome, International Music Competition "IMKA" of Sarajevo, National Music Competition "P. Mandanici" of Barcellona Pozzo di Gotto (ME), International Music Competition "Amigdala- Prize Giuseppe Raciti" of Aci Bonaccorsi (CT), International Music Competition of Quebec, Piano competition "W.A. Mozart" of Mazara del Vallo (TP), North International Music Competition of London, eMuse International Music Competition of Athens, International Piano Competition "città di Spoleto" (PG), "On stage" International Music Competition, International Music Competition of Canicattì (AG), Rising Stars Grand Prix International Music Competition of Berlino, Marlow Festival of Music & Drama 2016 (London), International Music Competition "Euterpe" of Corato (BA), International Music Competition "G. Campochiaro" of Pedara (CT), National Music Competition "Benedetto Albanese" of Caccamo (PA), International Piano Competition "Eliodoro Sollima" of Enna, National Music Competition of Firenze, International Competition "IncontrArti Music Award" of Realmonte (AG).
She plays regularly in Italy and abroad. In recent seasons has performer at the Carnegie Hall of New York, at Ehrbar Saal of Vienna, at the Auditorium Parco della Musica of Rome, at the Teatro Massimo of Palermo and at the Teatro Pirandello di Agrigento. She followed many Masterclasses of Piano and Chamber music held by Roberto Cominati, Christian Ruvolo, Lya de barberiis, Libor Novacek, Marcello Abbado, Edita Stankeviciute, Irene Veneziano, Giulio Potenza, Fulvia Mancini and Massimiliano Martinelli. She also followed a Piano masterclass at the Windsor Piano Academy of London.
As piano accompanist she worked in Flute Masterclass of well-known flutist M° Andrea Manco (1st flute Teatro alla Scala Milano); in Vocal Masterclass with M° Fabio Armiliato, M° Vincenzo di Betta and in Clarinet Masterclass with M° Sauro Berti. She carries out her concert activity in Italy and abroad, and has also been a teacher of Piano Practice and Reading at the Cultural Association Skené - Center for Musical Studies and Performing Arts in Sciacca, as well as a Collaborating Master of Piano at the 'A. Toscanini' Conservatory of Music in Ribera. She is a permanent piano teacher at the IC Manzoni of Cianciana (AG).
Alyssa Kwon - 16 Years old - Youth - Clarinet - Platinum Medalist - USA
Alyssa Kwon, age 16, began her musical journey began at the age of nine under the guidance of Hye Min Yun, through which she developed a deep appreciation for music and artistic expression. Since the fourth grade, she has been an active and committed member of her school band, consistently demonstrating dedication and discipline. In 2022, she was accepted into the Oakland Symphony Youth Orchestra, where she continues to refine her performance abilities in an advanced ensemble setting.
Her achievements include selection as a clarinetist for the California All- State and All-Northern Honor Bands in 2022, 2023, and 2024. She hasalso received recognition in international competitions, including top prizes at the 2023 U.S. International Open Music Competition, the 2024 San Francisco International Innovative Music Competition, the 2024 American Protégé Woodwinds and Brass Competition, the 2025 Charleston International Music Competition (New Year’s Edition), and
the 2025 International Music Competition Berlin ;Grand Prize Virtuoso.
Her accomplishments reflect not only her musical growth but also her strong commitment to continuous improvement and artistic excellence.
Shawn Guo - 8 years and under - Junior Category - Piano - Platinum Medalist - USA
Shawn began his piano journey at the age of five and has spent the past three years developing both his skills and love for music. He finds joy in exploring the timeless beauty of classical melodies, while also experimenting with lively, modern tunes that challenge his creativity and imagination.
Through consistent and focused practice, Shawn has made steady progress and grown more confident in his playing. His dedication has helped him master a variety of pieces and deepen his understanding of musical expression.
Piano has become a meaningful part of Shawn’s life—a way for him to express emotions and connect with others through sound. Whether performing for family or simply playing for fun, he embraces every opportunity to share the joy of music.
With a passion for learning, Shawn is excited to continue his musical journey, explore new techniques, and take on more challenging compositions as he grows.
Izabela Wiktoria Oliwia Torfs - 12 Years and under - Youth Category - Violin (Platinum Medalist) & Composition (Gold Medalist) - Belgium / Poland
Izabela Wiktoria Oliwia Torfs (Violinist & composer), started playing the violin with S.Erkmenis in 2019. In 2022 A.Morozova also became her violin tutor.In September 2019, she began playing the piano with H.Keser.
Since April 2023 she started self-studying music theory. Because of that, she started composing; up till now she wrote more than 50 compositions. In September 2023, during a violin audition for the Conservatory of Amsterdam's Sweelinck Academy she was playing the Violin Mozart concerto in G-Major with her own cadenza. J.van Driel became her violin tutor in the conservatory.
In 2024 she started playing the alto saxophone as a hobby, from S. Styles via the MusicSoulHouse music school. In January 2025, she also begun to play on the viola in the conservatory. Very recently, in order to improve her understanding of brass instruments and for sake of her composition journey, Izabela also decided to learn the trombone (just begun). Since the beginning of 2025 Enrico Ferri from MusicTutorOnline became Izabela’s composition teacher.
In her spare time, Izabela enjoys reading books and comics (especially adventure and horror (vampires, demons, etc.), and making her own jewellery. Izabela also loves to rollerblade, wall climb, and horse riding. She is an animal and nature lover. In school, her favourite subject is Mathematics.
Burtan Mara-Mihaela - 12 Years and under - Youth Category - Violin - Gold Medalist - Romania
Burtan Mara-Mihaela is a 5th grade student at the Joseph Haltrich Theoretical High School in Sighisoara, Romania, German section.
She was born on November 6, 2012 and has been studying the violin for four years and six months. Together with her violin teacher, Gansca Alexandru Horia, and her piano accompanist teachers, Mrs. Bizuleanu Stanca and Professor Dr. Kozma Istvan Levente, Mara has won numerous awards at national, international and olympiad competitions, putting the city of Sighisoara on the cultural and competitive map in Romania and abroad.
In 2021, she won the 1st prize for excellence at the international competition
festival & Winter of Talents 2021; violin section, age group 7-9 years. In 2022, she won the first prize at the international arts competition, violin section, age group 9 years, then the diploma of excellence at the J.S.Bach Festival, violin section, 2nd grade. In 2023 he won the diploma of excellence at the J.S.Bach Festival, violin section, 3rd class, 1st prize at the National Instrumental Interpretation Olympiad, 3rd class, 1st prize at the "Ada Ulubeanu"interpretation competition, 3rd class, 2nd prize at the W.A.Mozart interpretation competition, violin section, 3rd class, 1st prize at the county instrumental interpretation competition "Friends of Music"; 3rd class, Special mention at the national Romanian music interpretation competition "Sigismund Toduta", 3rd class, 1st prize of excellence at the international arts competition, 3rd class, violin section, 1st prize at the "Ada Ulubeanu"; interpretation competition, 3rd class. In 2024, he won the first prize at the "Ada Ulubeanu" interpretation competition, violin section, 4th grade, the third prize at the W.A.Mozart national interpretation competition, the first prize at the "Remember Enescu"; competition, 4th grade, violin section, the second prize at the International online competition Music Academy Forte, Belgium, Brussels.
In 2025 he won the first prize at the Odorheiul Secuiesc National Zonal Olympiad, violin section, 5th grade, the second prize at the J.S. Bach festival, organized by the Augustin Bena music school, Cluj-Napoca, the second prize in Hungary at the international violin festival, the first prize at the regional vocal instrumental interpretation competition Viva la Musica, Zalau, 24th edition, the first prize at the Festival&Competition organized by MusicArte online competition, Giovanni Calabrese, the second prize at the international competition in Krakowia, Poland organized by the Life&Art Foundation, 7th edition, a mention and the Aperto prize at the national interpretation competition Lira de Aur in Suceava, Romania, the gold medal at the Quebec Music Competition, 8th edition.
Burtan Mara-Mihaela - 12 Years and under - Youth Category - Violin - Gold Medalist - Romania
Burtan Mara-Mihaela is a 5th grade student at the Joseph Haltrich Theoretical High School in Sighisoara, Romania, German section.
She was born on November 6, 2012 and has been studying the violin for four years and six months. Together with her violin teacher, Gansca Alexandru Horia, and her piano accompanist teachers, Mrs. Bizuleanu Stanca and Professor Dr. Kozma Istvan Levente, Mara has won numerous awards at national, international and olympiad competitions, putting the city of Sighisoara on the cultural and competitive map in Romania and abroad.
In 2021, she won the 1st prize for excellence at the international competition
festival & Winter of Talents 2021; violin section, age group 7-9 years. In 2022, she won the first prize at the international arts competition, violin section, age group 9 years, then the diploma of excellence at the J.S.Bach Festival, violin section, 2nd grade. In 2023 he won the diploma of excellence at the J.S.Bach Festival, violin section, 3rd class, 1st prize at the National Instrumental Interpretation Olympiad, 3rd class, 1st prize at the "Ada Ulubeanu"interpretation competition, 3rd class, 2nd prize at the W.A.Mozart interpretation competition, violin section, 3rd class, 1st prize at the county instrumental interpretation competition "Friends of Music"; 3rd class, Special mention at the national Romanian music interpretation competition "Sigismund Toduta", 3rd class, 1st prize of excellence at the international arts competition, 3rd class, violin section, 1st prize at the "Ada Ulubeanu"; interpretation competition, 3rd class. In 2024, he won the first prize at the "Ada Ulubeanu" interpretation competition, violin section, 4th grade, the third prize at the W.A.Mozart national interpretation competition, the first prize at the "Remember Enescu"; competition, 4th grade, violin section, the second prize at the International online competition Music Academy Forte, Belgium, Brussels.
In 2025 he won the first prize at the Odorheiul Secuiesc National Zonal Olympiad, violin section, 5th grade, the second prize at the J.S. Bach festival, organized by the Augustin Bena music school, Cluj-Napoca, the second prize in Hungary at the international violin festival, the first prize at the regional vocal instrumental interpretation competition Viva la Musica, Zalau, 24th edition, the first prize at the Festival&Competition organized by MusicArte online competition, Giovanni Calabrese, the second prize at the international competition in Krakowia, Poland organized by the Life&Art Foundation, 7th edition, a mention and the Aperto prize at the national interpretation competition Lira de Aur in Suceava, Romania, the gold medal at the Quebec Music Competition, 8th edition.
David Lin - 13 years old & under - Youth Category - Piano - Gold Medalist - Australia
David Lin is a 13-year-old pianist from the Gold Coast, Australia. He began studying piano at age five and has since developed a passion for classical music. Under the guidance of his teacher Judy Sun, David has received numerous awards in both national and international competitions, including First Prize at the 2025 Queensland Piano Competition, Gold Prizes at the Carl Reinecke and Quebec Music Competitions, and several Eisteddfod championships. David is currently preparing for the AmusA Diploma and enjoys tennis, golf, and skiing in his spare time. Music for David is a way to express emotions and share stories beyond words.
Jiho Kim - Junior Category - 6 years and under - Piano - Gold Medalist - USA
Jiho Kim is a bright and imaginative six-year-old who began studying piano one year and eight months ago with teacher Yi-Fang Wu at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music (SFCM). Now in his second year at the SFCM Pre-College Division, Jiho finds music to be one of his favorite forms of expression. After school, he often dashes to the piano to explore melodies he's heard or invent tunes of his own. He delights in learning new pieces and discovering the many playful possibilities music offers.
Jiho is currently a kindergartener at The Nueva School in California, U.S.A. When he’s not at the piano, he loves building creative inventions out of recycled materials and LEGO—like a binocular that doubles as a compass. He also enjoys playing tag with friends, solving math puzzles, and dreaming up new ideas wherever he goes.
Jiho Kim is a bright and imaginative six-year-old who began studying piano one year and eight months ago with teacher Yi-Fang Wu at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music (SFCM). Now in his second year at the SFCM Pre-College Division, Jiho finds music to be one of his favorite forms of expression. After school, he often dashes to the piano to explore melodies he's heard or invent tunes of his own. He delights in learning new pieces and discovering the many playful possibilities music offers.
Jiho is currently a kindergartener at The Nueva School in California, U.S.A. When he’s not at the piano, he loves building creative inventions out of recycled materials and LEGO—like a binocular that doubles as a compass. He also enjoys playing tag with friends, solving math puzzles, and dreaming up new ideas wherever he goes.
Maya Kim - Youth Category - 16 years and under - Violin - Silver Medalist - USA
Maya started playing violin at age 4, under the instruction of Lee-Anne Fenwick. During the pandemic, she started lessons with Kelley McGarry through the Boston Conservatory at Berklee. She currently studies primarily under Kor’ee Jackson at the Louisville Academy of Music, and is co-leader of the virtual chamber orchestra at The Academy at Laurel Springs. In addition to violin, she is an Open-Championship level competitive Irish dancer, and enjoys playing Irish dance music and other fiddle tunes in addition to classical music. The Quebec Music Competition is her first violin competition.
Ric Jayden Serra - Collegiate Category - 18 years and under - Composition - Silver Medalist - Philippines
Ric Jayden Serra—fondly called RJ or Jayden—has been a passionate lover of classical music since childhood. Although he never received formal lessons or training in playing musical instruments, his deep love for music and determination to learn led him to become a self-taught pianist, singer, and composer.
At just seven years old, Jayden began playing the flute and melodion despite the fact that his parents did not provide him a trainor , and by the age of ten, he was already playing the piano—all by himself. His early on-stage concert experience was at the "Pasko sa Kabikolan" ,a christmas concert held at the San Rafael Arcangel Parish in Pili, where he was one of the youngest performers.
As a former high school student of Colegio de San Rafael Arcanghel (formerly Pili Parochial School), Jayden was an active member of the choir and a consistent chess player. The school played a significant role in shaping him into a multi-skilled and talented individual while helping him remain humble, God-loving, and compassionate.
As a compassionate individual, Ric Jayden began showing his generosity at a young age. When he was just 8 years old, he volunteered in a feeding activity and brought joy through his musical talent during an outreach program at the Queen of Peace Orphanage, accompanied by his mother and friends. His heart has always been devoted to giving and serving the less fortunate.
During the pandemic, Jayden began joining various international online music and talent competitions. He earned silver awards in the Quebec Music Competition and Musicland International Competition in both voice and piano categories..He also won First Place in Angel Voice Talented Model International Competition .in male young teen category.
At 16, he discovered a growing passion for composing music. Since then, he has composed two orchestral pieces and more than eight classical compositions, showcasing his creativity and musical maturity.
Currently, Jayden is enrolled at ACLC, a computer-oriented institution, where he continues his senior high school journey under the ABM (Accountancy, Business, and Management) strand. In his free time, he plays the piano at one of Naga’s most prestigious venues—The Avenue Plaza Hotel—where the staff warmly welcomes him and his music that brings joy to guests and visitors alike.
Choosing courage over fear and hope over despair while remaining humble , Ric Jayden Serra remains committed to overcoming challenges and breaking barriers. With God’s grace and the unwavering support of his family and friends, he continues to share joy and inspiration through the magic of music.
His musical composition entitled Bridges of Hope, which was submitted as an entry in this musical competition of Quebec will hopefully inspire a sense of hope in listeners from various walks of life."
Presenting 2024 Quebec Music Competition Winners
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.
Zda Sumbillo - Youth Category - 13 years old – Philippines - Voice - Gold Medalist
At a young age, Zda joined numerous competitions and achieved prestigious awards locally and internationally. At age 7, she won the 2018 Song Festival Music Competition at Miriam College, Philippines. In 2021, she received her first international award, a Bronze Medal, Rising Star Category - Voice in the 2020-2021 Canadian International Music Competition. Zda and her BEST team won third
place when they participated in the 2021 Eurovision Musical Contest 2 - representing Denmark in Inspiration Theater Co., UK. She was a two-time Gold Medalist - Voice in the 2021 Trinity International Music and Quebec Music Online International Competitions. In the same year, she was one of the chosen few winners in an international playwrights contest who competed globally, performed as Super Z in the Voices of Youth Theater Festival, and a prize winner of the 2021 Power Performer Award in the Voices of Youth Talent Showcase by Powerstories in Florida, USA. Zda was nominated and won the Best Performer in a Musical at BroadwayWorld 2021 Tampa Awards – for her performance in Lights, Stage, Sing Cabaret under Broadway Everyday Star Theater (BEST). This year, Zda was a Silver Medalist – Voice under the Youth Category in the US-Canadian International Music
Competition 2024. She won First Prize with Honors – Voice under the Junior II Category in the International Youth Music Competitions 2024 (Musical Theatre, Broadway, and Disney), Atlanta, USA, and performed live during the Winners’ Recital at The DiMenna Center for Classical Music on Sept. 1, 2024, in New York, USA. As a former prizewinner of the Quebec Music Competition 2021, Zda enthusiastically participated and won a Gold Medal – Voice, now under the Youth Category in QMC 2024.
Zda is passionate about music and the performing arts. She has played diverse roles in acting and was a work shopper and thespian at Atlantis Theatrical (AT), Repertory (REP), Trumpets Playshop, Star Magic, G-Force, Phil. Educational Theater Association (PETA), and Broadway Everyday Star Theater. She is also into sports and enjoys fencing. Recently, she won a Bronze Medal Award during the Winter Cup 2024 Fencing Competition (U13 Novice Mixed Foil) organized by Hampton Court Fencing Club. She dreams big and loves to inspire people by sharing her talent for singing, dancing, performing arts, fencing, and the gift of sharing a story.
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 5th 2016. 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.