Steinway National Competition
As mentioned previously, of the major national competitions, Steinway is generally considered the most prestigious due to the selectivity of finalists (20 something per division as opposed to 50-100), repertoire selection, and professionalism of organization. This year they upped the ante by adding a concerto round for the conservatory division finalists. From over 50,000 competitors nationwide, approximately 100+ competitors advanced to the national finals. Our students Junye Huang took first prize in the Junior High Conservatory Division, Chuan Wan sixth prize in the High School Conservatory Division, and Chonglin Xu third in the College Conservatory Division. This time we especially enjoyed seeing the Tianjin Juilliard campus, what a lovely oasis amidst the larger climate of Chinese conservatories.