Explore more reviews from our past finalists, teachers, and parents who have participated in the Charleston International Music Competition. These testimonials provide additional personal perspectives on how our competitions have supported musicians in gaining recognition, boosting their confidence, and advancing their musical journeys. See why participants from around the world appreciate this opportunity and the meaningful impact it has had on their musical development.
Dardan Osmanaj

I am extremely happy with the evaluation you gave to my student Raina Bilbili, who is one of the dearest students and very dedicated to the violin. “Without a doubt, this evaluation is really a very important stimulation for my student Raina, who thinks that she cannot start the day without first playing the violin.” Now I think that in the next competition that you have, we will apply with two or three other students, where one of them is my 6-year-old son who will play the first movement of the Rieding H minor concerto. I thank you very much for the certificate you sent me, it is also a stimulus for me.
My name is Kevin Monzon and I am honored to have received 3rd place. Participating in this competition was an incredible journey and definitely ignited a deeper passion to keep playing cello. The experience has not only validated all the hard work and passion I have put into practicing, but it has also given me new insight and opportunity, encouraging me to continue pushing myself to the limit. This is not just a personal achievement, but also proof of all the hard work and support I’ve received from my mentors, family, and friends. Their belief in my ability has been a driving force behind my success. Again, I am extremely grateful to have been able to play in this competition. It is a significant milestone in my musical career and I look forward to more exciting things in the future!
I am truly honoured to have won First Prize in the 2024 Charleston International Summer Music Competition. This rewarding journey has provided me with the opportunity to share my music with an international audience, and this achievement inspires me to continue pursuing excellence in piano performance. I am so grateful to my teacher, family, and friends in Australia for their support throughout this experience.
Participating in this competition has been an incredible journey for me. The entire process, from preparing for the competition to performing, was both challenging and rewarding. I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of it, and the experience has greatly enriched my musical journey.
Being part of this vibrant new community has been particularly exciting. The connections I’ve made and the opportunities that have arisen are truly invaluable. I am enthusiastic about the doors this experience has already opened and am eager to see what new opportunities lie ahead.
Thank you for this amazing experience. I look forward to the future with great anticipation!
Kristal Schwartz
Michelle has been studying with me since 2019, and in the 4-5 years I’ve taught her, she has grown into an incredibly talented and dedicated harpist. Her participation in the 2024 Summer Music Competition is a testament to her hard work, discipline, and passion for music. Michelle always sets high goals for herself, and her drive to succeed has truly shone throughout this competition. I couldn’t be prouder of her accomplishments and the mature, motivated person she’s becoming.
Thank you to the organizers for providing this online competition platform, which allows me to participate without geographical or age restrictions. The competition was very welcoming, and winning an award for the first time has been both gratifying and encouraging, motivating me to continue pursuing my passion.
I am very touched by your letter! I am immensely grateful that my performance was so highly appreciated, it gave me so much faith in myself and the desire to study, to perform more!!!
I am so grateful to the Charleston International Music Competition! Receiving this award is not only an honor for me but also serves as a significant source of motivation to work even harder and continue my growth as a pianist. This award is not only honorable for me, but for my mentor Kevin Goodwin who has inspired me in music. He is a big reason I am where I am now. I am excited to continue on my musical journey.
I never thought I was ever good enough to ever join a music competition and this being my first ever competition I ever joined, it was truly a experience I can’t forget, the thrill of doing something I love and being able to be recognized and win something for it? It’s truly amazing and being able to participate, made my entire journey 100% more worthwhile!
Chun Yi Wang
Thank you so much for your organization, which provides a valuable opportunity for students to set goals to achieve.







