Reviews Page 1

Welcome to the first page of reviews for the Charleston International Music Competition! Here, you’ll find a collection of testimonials from musicians, teachers, and parents who have participated in our competitions. These reviews provide insight into how our events have helped performers gain recognition, build confidence, and further their musical careers. Take a moment to explore the stories of those who’ve made their mark at the Charleston International Music Competition and see why so many musicians trust and recommend us.


I want to express my gratitude and share my thoughts on the Charleston International Competition, with a focus on the significant impact it had on my journey as a violinist.

Securing 3rd place in this respected competition is a meaningful milestone in my musical path. It’s a recognition of the dedication and passion I’ve put into mastering the intricacies of the violin. The acknowledgment from such a prestigious institution is an honor and a validation of the artistic expression I’ve worked hard to cultivate.

Participating in the Charleston International Competition allowed me to showcase my violin skills and connect with fellow musicians from diverse backgrounds. The competition’s accessible format even gave me the chance to present both the trumpet and violin, a challenging but exhilarating experience that pushed the boundaries of my artistic capabilities.

This transformative journey has been enriched by the unwavering support of my mentors, teachers, and family, whose guidance played an instrumental role in shaping my identity as a violinist. Winning 3rd place is a humbling affirmation of their invaluable contributions to my growth.

Beyond the accolades, the competition has left a lasting mark on my musical perspective and aspirations. It reignited a profound sense of passion and purpose, inspiring me to pursue excellence in every facet of my violin-centric musical endeavors. As I navigate my future professional career in music, the lessons learned in Charleston will undoubtedly continue to shape my artistic trajectory. 

To fellow students and peers, I encourage you to embrace the opportunity to participate in such competitions, particularly if the violin is your chosen instrument. The Charleston International Competition not only fosters individual development but also strengthens our collective musical community. I’m grateful for this experience and look forward to the continued growth and exploration that the world of music has to offer.


It is an incredible honor as the first prize winner of the vocal group category at the Charleston International Music Competition. This moment is the culmination of countless hours of dedication, collaboration, and passion for music.

I’d like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the judges for recognizing our hard work and artistry, and to the organizers for creating such a remarkable platform for musicians worldwide. To my fellow competitors, your talent and passion inspire me, and it’s a privilege to share this stage with you.

Music has the power to unite, heal, and inspire, and I am humbled to be part of this journey. Thank you.


Irina Amiryan

Irina Amiryan

Thank you very much — I have received all six of my teacher certificates! I am delighted that six of my students participated in the Charleston International Music Competition and became finalists. Our music studio (Elite Piano Studio) achieved excellent results! We earned one first place, two second places, two third places, and one fourth place.

As a teacher with 50 years of experience and a judge at many prestigious competitions in Armenia , I can confidently say that the Charleston International Music Competition is an excellent platform for musicians of all genres and ages, providing both an opportunity to test their skills and a strong motivation to continue developing professionally. As an experienced educator, I am always ready to support the Competition with advice and recommendations.

I sincerely hope that the Charleston International Music Competition will continue to reach new heights, attracting even more musicians into its welcoming family!


I am still overjoyed knowing I was able to participate in this competition. I am currently preparing for a college audition, and this is giving me the confidence I need to succeed. For me, the prizes are the least of my priority. My goal is to compose music, and spread the beauty of classical music worldwide. So that people from all ages listen to it, or maybe even attempt to play instruments. I recommend everyone to sign up for the Charleston Competition! 


It has been an honor to be a part of this prestigious international piano competition. As the Second Prize winner in my age group, I am truly privileged to have had the opportunity to compete alongside thousands of talented participants from around the world. I deeply appreciate the encouraging feedback from the jurors, which has been incredibly motivating. I sincerely hope that the Charleston International Competition continues to provide such an exclusive platform for musicians to showcase their talents. This experience has been truly inspiring, and I am grateful for the opportunity to grow through it.


I am honored to participate in the Charleston International Music Competition and I am very grateful to the competition and the judges for awarding me first place. In this competition, I have a more delicate and profound understanding of the works of the romantic period. Music is infinite, and this competition has inspired me to strive for greater growth and breakthrough in my journey of pursuing music.


Steven Flam

Steven Flam

The Charleson International Music Competition provides an important stepping stone for young musical artists to test their skills. This will make them rise to a higher level in their preparation. Being Amber Venaglia’s voice teacher for the past year has shown me how even very young teens can be dedicated and progress at a quick rate. That is a testament both to Amber’s resolve and passion for her singing, as well as my commitment to her progress as her teacher. I love helping young artists progress.
I wish Amber Venaglia and The Charleston International Music Competition the best of good fortune in the future, continued success!


Dr. Irina Yurkovskaya

Dr. Irina Yurkovskaya

My piano and voice students have been taking part in the Charleston International Music Competition for the past two years with great success. We are very impressed with a high level of organization and professionalism of the Competition team. I believe my students benefit from participation that gives them more motivation to excel and build their artistic skills. The winners always get featured on my Perfect Pitch Music Studio Facebook page, and, in turn, their posts inspire others to grow. The most recent example of such inspiration is our Howard Douglass, who won the 1st Prize in his very first piano contest. We are looking forward to future competitions and are grateful for this opportunity CIMC provides for aspiring musicians.


Maria Amiryan

Maria Amiryan

Participating in the Charleston International Piano Competition has been an incredible and inspiring experience for me. As a prize-winner and laureate of such prestigious competitions as Podium de Cannes, Euterpe, and the Annual Paris Festival, I was delighted to gain a fresh perspective and new opportunities through this remarkable event.

The level of professionalism demonstrated by the festival’s team and the inspiring atmosphere made this journey unforgettable. I am deeply grateful for the chance to share my music and to be recognized among the Top 3 pianists.

Thank you for your dedication and commitment to excellence in music. I will be sure to recommend your competition to my colleagues and students as a world-class platform for showcasing talent.


My name is Jae Park, and I am honored to have been chosen as the First Prize Winner of this competition. I am glad and overjoyed to be awarded despite the many competitive participants that must have applied. 

Participating in this competition has been an incredible journey that has greatly contributed to my growth as a musician. These competitions motivate me to continue pursuing excellence in my musical endeavors. I am also comfortable with your request to show my video on your website. Thank you for your support and for fostering a community that encourages young talents to feel appreciated.