Read more reviews from past finalists, teachers, and parents about their experiences with the Charleston International Music Competition. Their testimonials detail how our competitions have helped musicians gain recognition, build confidence, and progress in their musical journeys.
Hello, my name is Elizabeth Ahyun Koh. I am 11-years-old, and I received 2nd place for my vocal performance of Lascia Ch’io Pianga by George Frederic Handel.
This was my first time competing as a vocalist in an international music competition, so winning second prize was very exciting and amazing. I’ve learned so much just by participating in this experience, and now, I am even more motivated and inspired to continue growing as a musician. Thank you to everyone who helped me grow through this amazing opportunity.
I am writing to thank you on behalf of my son, Nguyen Tri Quang, and my family members for your support to him throughout the process of his college application. He has been admitted to Oberlin college and conservatory this Fall 2025. We are very happy and thus we would like to express our sincere gratitude again for his wonderful time with Charleston competitions and for your generosity in writing him college recommendation letter. I do hope that he will continue to join your upcoming competitions.
Thank you for the opportunity to compete in the 2025 Virtuoso Music Competition and share this experience with talented kids from all over the world. I cannot wait for the next one (Charleston International Music Competition). Let’s Go!
Shanshan Gao
First and foremost, congratulations to Li Runzhi on claiming first place in this competition! As his instructor, I am overjoyed. My heartfelt thanks go to Charleston for providing a fair, impartial, and professional platform where aspiring musicians can receive expert recognition and opportunities to grow. I extend my deepest respect and gratitude to this competition.
Li Runzhi began learning the guzheng with me at age six. Witnessing his evolution from a restless young boy to a performer who now expresses himself freely through music has been an arduous yet wondrous journey. This transformation is a testament to his personal dedication and unwavering pursuit of excellence. As an instructor who demands meticulous attention to detail, I rigorously refine every aspect of a student’s technique and musical interpretation—sometimes starting afresh. Throughout this demanding process, Runzhi has proven himself resilient. He has continually overcome limitations, honed his skills through daily practice, embraced stage performances to conquer his fears, and persevered without surrender. Beyond excelling academically, he has cultivated a genuine passion for the guzheng, striving for higher standards and embarking on an extraordinary voyage through the world of music.
Through his guzheng, he has narrated vivid Chinese stories: the jubilant spirit of Jinggangshan, the righteous fury of Lin Chong Driven to Liangshan, and the fearless journey of the Pilgrim. These experiences will undoubtedly become invaluable life lessons on his musical path. The voice of his guzheng will remain his most faithful companion in distant lands. I believe the world of music will enrich his inner life and present him with unique challenges and opportunities. As your teacher, I eagerly anticipate your bold strides forward, look forward to your brilliant performances during your high school years in the United States, and dream of witnessing your ideal concert come to fruition.
Let your dreams be your steed; seize the day without regret!
Dr. Kosumo Morishita
I am incredibly proud of my piano student, Miguel Secillano, for winning 3rd Prize in the 2025 Virtuoso Music Competition. Miguel has worked with great dedication, showing not only technical growth but also musical maturity well beyond his years. This competition offered him the invaluable opportunity to showcase his talent without the need to travel, and it has truly motivated him to continue pursuing excellence. It has been a joy to guide him on this journey, and I look forward to seeing all that he will accomplish in the future.
Thank you for the opportunity to compete! It is such an honor to earn 3rd place. It encouraged me to practice more and continue to refine my piano skills. I especially appreciated your kind critique on how to improve my playing. Thanks again for the opportunity.
Ana Samardzic
I would like to thank you for the opportunity to participate in your competition, as well as for the good organization and professionalism you have shown. Petra and I are very satisfied. Thank you once again for everything.
I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude for the wonderful opportunity to participate in the CIMC and for the honor of receiving an award. It was a truly valuable and inspiring experience for me.
I was especially touched to receive Judge An Vedi‘s original composition as a gift. It means so much to me, and I am deeply honored. I look forward to playing her piece and will treasure it always.
Thank you again for your kindness and generosity.
I am so honored to be selected as a First Prize winner in the 2025 Virtuoso Music Competition (piano). This was my second participation in one of your competitions, and I am deeply grateful to have been chosen as one of the winners both times. Music has been a significant part of my life since I was born, and I am so fortunate to have worked with incredible teachers and artists from the very first day of my musical journey. Both my piano teacher and I felt that participating in your competition would be a very rewarding experience, and it absolutely was. I am especially thrilled to receive the Musical Achievement Statement and to get the feedback on my musical expression, technical mastery and artistry. Thank you Charleston International Competition for this incredible opportunity!
To all the esteemed judges of the Charleston International Music Competition, my heart is full of gratitude and humility. I am truly honored to have received the First Prize in this competition. I extend my deepest thanks to each of you for believing in my talent and for making this incredible opportunity possible. Your support means the world to me, and it inspires me to continue pushing the boundaries of my musical journey. Being part of this extraordinary music competition has been a transformative experience—one that has allowed me to grow, learn, and connect with so many passionate individuals. I am grateful to have shared the online stage with such talented musicians, all of whom have inspired me in various ways. Thank you once again for this incredible honor.