WINNERS | NY Classical Awards

2026 Winners

Alexander Liu

Alex, age 11, began his piano studies at the age of nine under the guidance of Mr. Fred Hsiang. A sixth-grade student based in Atlanta, Georgia, he has been recognized as an Outstanding Performer at the Georgia Music Teachers Association State Audition. Alex is dedicated to his musical development and enjoys testing the limits to his range and repertoire. Through his development, he continues to deepen his musical understanding and expression.

Zoe Chen

Zoe, an 11 year old violinist with the Greater Miami Youth Symphony, began her musical journey at age 4.5. She is the GMYS Concerto Competition Overture Winner and a multi award recipient at FSMTA and FFMC state competitions. She is devoted to personal and professional excellence and to community outreach, sharing music with senior living communities and underprivileged groups to inspire and build meaningful connections across different walks of life.

Vihaan Mahisekar

Ten-year-old Vihaan also studies with Dr. Mihyun Kim and began piano at age seven. He has earned Level 5 in the MTAC Certificate of Merit program and has been recognized in numerous competitions, including the Charleston International Music Competition, Global Genius Music Competition, and the US Open Music Competition. He has also performed in the Glory International and Medici International Music Competitions. When he’s not practicing, Vihaan loves drawing and playing golf.

Grace Lim, Elie Choe, Eugene Kim, Victoria Hu

We are 9th-grade flute students from Portland, Oregon, studying under Miri Lee. Having been close friends for many years, we share deep passion for music. And we love practicing and playing beautiful classical ensemble masterpieces together. It is an absolute dream come true and an honor to perform on the stage of Carnegie Hall for the NY Classical Debut Awards Gala concert. We are incredibly excited to be there!

Szymon Paruzel

Szymon Paruzel is a classical pianist based in Kraków, Poland. He studied at the Academy of Music in Kraków and at Chopin University of Music in Warsaw as well as obtained a law diploma from Jagiellonian University in Kraków. He is an accomplished musician with great expertise in solo, chamber, contemporary and early music (the latter often played on clavichord or harpsichord). He is also a keen advocate of Polish 20th century music, a musical journalist and a co-headmaster of a private music school near Kraków.

Stefan Paczyński

Stefan Paczyński was born in Augustów, Poland in 2011, At the age of 6, he began learning to play the piano at the State Music School of the 1st degree Emil Młynarski in Augustów. Currently, he is a student of the piano class of Mrs. Anetta Pękala at the State Music School of the 1st and 2nd degree in Suwałki. He is a laureate of national and international piano competitions, including: Golden Classical Music Awards, International Youth Music Competitions, European Virtuoso Music Awards, International Gloria Artis Competition, International Chopin Piano Competition in Vienna, International Schubert Competition, Virtuoso International Music Awards, Claude Debussy Competition, Amadeus International Music Awards, AEGIO International Piano Competition -Europe. Scholarship holder of the Marshal of the Podlaskie Voivodeship, the Mayor of Augustów and the Starost of Augustów.

Saanvi Mahisekar

Twelve-year-old Saanvi began her piano studies at age eight under the guidance of Dr. Mihyun Kim. She has since earned Level 7 in the MTAC Certificate of Merit program and distinguished herself in international competitions across the United States, United Kingdom, and Finland. Her accolades include First Prize at both the UK International Music Competition and the Great Composer Music Competition, as well as a Merit Award at the Finland International Music Competition. Outside the piano, Saanvi enjoys drawing, crochet, and playing golf.

Shui Yee Siu

Shaylee Siu, began violin at six, has received several recognition such as the Euterpe Music Award (Germany, 2022), Honor Prize at Birmingham International Music Competition (2023), and First Prize at Tiziano Rossetti International Music Competition (Switzerland, 2023). Under the guidance of world-class violinist Prof. Giacomo Sermoneta (pupil of Marco Rizzi) upon masterclass in Lugano, she grows as a more expressive and thoughtful performer, showcasing a newfound depth and maturity.

aul Siu Ming Tsun

Paul Siu Ming Tsun
Born into a musical family, Paul began piano lessons at age six with his mother, a dedicated music teacher. Initially, he played for leisure, finding joy in the melodies. However, when his two daughters took up violin and piano in their early years, his passion deepened. Paul practiced diligently, transforming into their devoted piano accompanist, intertwining his musical journey with theirs and fostering a love for music in their family.

Michael Girgis

Michael is four years old, he started his piano journey at the age of three at Elena’s music studio under directions of his teacher Elena Ayanyan. Three months later he had his first live performance.
At the same age he received First Prize recognition by Charleston International Music Competition. This year, he is preparing to take another exciting step in his music journey to perform at the county elementary recital in April and yet another annual summer recital in May. And best of all Michael is looking forward to perform at the stage of the most prestigious concert venues in the world, Carnegie Hall.

Ioannis Papagiannopoulos

Ioannis is a talented and dedicated Greek cellist. He holds a Cello Diploma with highest distinction from the Attikon Conservatory.

He is a prizewinner in numerous international competitions and has participated in prestigious youth orchestras, including the Verbier Festival Junior Orchestra (2023–2024), the Royal Concertgebouw Young (2022), and the Junges Philharmonisches Orchester München (2025–2026).

He has attended masterclasses with renowned artists such as Leonidas Kavakos and Mischa Maisky. Ioannis has also performed as a soloist with the Thessaloniki City Orchestra and the Athens Megaron Junior Orchestra.

Netchensky Leas

Netchensky Eder Debell Leas began studying piano at the age of six in Haiti, where he first discovered his passion for music. He received his early training under Haskell Helvetitus and later continued his studies with Robenson Altino and Mrs. Kelly in the USA. Throughout his musical journey, he has performed in numerous recitals, demonstrating both technical skill and expressive artistry.

He earned Best Performance honors at the NYSSMA Solo Evaluation at Levels 4-6, as well as Best Performance at a competition held at Farmingdale School. He was named the winner of the Conference Talent Hunt Competition hosted by Omega Phi and became the overall winner of the Second District Talent Hunt Competition, competing against performers from New York, New Jersey, Delaware, and Maryland.

Committed to excellence, Netchensky uses music as a powerful tool to support, inspire, and uplift his community.

Marie Anderson

Marie Anderson is a sought-after private instructor, music teacher, and accompanist with over 40 years of experience inspiring students to reach their full potential as musicians and performers. She holds a Master’s of Music Education with Piano Performance from West Chester University and serves as Secretary on the board of the local chapter of NATS (National Association of Teachers of Singing), in addition to her active membership in MLMTA (Main Line Music Teachers Association).

Marcus Tatar

Marcus is a 17-year-old cellist who began studying at age six in Seattle and continued his musical development in Miami, Florida. Studying under the tutelage of Jason Calloway and Ross Harbaugh, he has also participated in masterclasses with Richard Aaron, Darrett Adkins and Tommy Mesa. A prizewinner at the 2026 Miami Cello Institute Competition. Marcus has earned selection to Florida All-State and serves in a leadership role with the Greater Miami Youth Orchestra.

Michael Efthymios Chalkias

Michael Efthymios Chalkias is a 16-year-old Greek pianist studying at the State Conservatory of Thessaloniki under Professor Vassilis Varvaresos. A distinguished soloist, he has won top prizes in both national and international competitions and performed at the Thessaloniki and Athens Concert Halls. He has presented research on piano and artificial intelligence, attended masterclasses with renowned artists, and aspires to an international solo career, sharing his passion for the piano across the globe.

Luca Veni, Aeden O’Shields

Luca Veni is a classically trained violinist pursuing a Bachelor of Music in Violin Performance at Kennesaw State University. He studies with Helen Kim, Julie Coucheron, and Charae Krueger. He has served as Concertmaster of the KSU Symphony Orchestra and performed at Carnegie Hall, winning first place in the Charleston International Music Competition and the NY Classical Debut Awards. He performs extensively as a soloist and chamber musician worldwide.

Aeden O’Shields is an emerging violinist pursuing a Bachelor of Music in Violin Performance at Kennesaw State University. Studying with Helen Kim, Jay Christy, and Charae Krueger, he has developed a strong artistic voice. He has led the KSU Symphony Orchestra as Concertmaster and actively performs in chamber settings. Aeden earned first place in the Charleston International Music Competition and NY Classical Debut Awards, appearing regularly in solo and ensemble performances.

Lucas Blatt

Lucas Blatt was born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and moved to Miami three years ago. He is currently a junior at Palmer Trinity School, where he balances his academic studies with a strong commitment to music. Lucas began playing the piano at the age of six, and since then, music has played a central role in his life. He currently studies piano with Armen Martirosyan, under whose guidance he continues to refine his technique, musicality, and artistic expression.
Over the years, Lucas has performed in numerous recitals and concerts, gaining valuable experience as a solo performer. His repertoire spans a wide range of styles, reflecting his broad musical interests and curiosity. He enjoys both classical music and jazz, appreciating the discipline and depth of classical repertoire as well as the creativity and freedom found in jazz.
Lucas is particularly drawn to energetic and technically demanding pieces that allow him to showcase his precision and intensity at the piano. At the same time, he places great value on slower, more lyrical works, where he can explore emotion, phrasing, and musical expression. Through his performances, Lucas strives to communicate feeling and connect with his audience, continually growing as a musician and artist.

Yu Ching Liu

Lui Yu Ching has been recognized in various prestigious competitions. Highlights include winning 2nd Place in AIMA Tokyo International Music Festival & Competition, Champion in 78th Hong Kong School Music Festival, 1st Prize in 7th Melbourne Pacific Piano Open Competition. She was invited to perform in Italy, Singapore, Australia and Hong Kong, She has been honored with Singapore Music scholarship and studied with Mr. Maurizio Moretta in Italy Master Class.

Lucas Hernandez

Lucas is twelve years old and began piano studies at four with Prof. Rolando Miralles at Vivace Arts Conservatory in Miami. He has won several first prizes in the conservatory’s competitions and received awards at the Miami Music Teachers Association competitions. Lucas shares a passion for performing Cuban music with his father and also plays French horn with the Miami Arts Studio Symphony.

Leone Pini

Violinist Leone Pini, born in Florence in 2009, made his debut as a soloist at the age of eight, accompanied by the Orchestra Scolastica della Toscana, and was subsequently invited to perform in prestigious venues such as Bozar in Brussels, Parco della Musica in Rome, and Teatro Verdi in Florence. Winner of numerous competitions, at the age of 12 he performed Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy's Concerto. He continues to study violin with Professor Marco Fornaciari, Chiara Morandi and Ilya Grubert.

Ky Phan

Phan Ky is a promising young pianist who moved from Vietnam to San Diego three years ago. Inspired by his older brother, he began exploring the piano through simple melodies at home. After beginning formal training, he entered this competition and was awarded First Prize. Alongside music, he enjoys mathematics and playing chess, reflecting both intellectual curiosity and artistic sensitivity beyond his years.

Justin Huynh

Justin is a 10-year-old student with a strong passion for music, especially the piano. He has been developing his skills through consistent practice and enjoys expressing himself through each performance. In addition to piano, Justin is also studying drums and guitar, expanding his musical talents. He is an active, curious child who loves learning new things, exploring creative interests, and spending quality time with his family.

Chanmi Lee

Pianist Chanmi Sarah Lee is a Doctoral Candidate at the University of Illinois (UIUC), where she serves as a Graduate Assistant. A Summa Cum Laude graduate of Seoul National University, she also attended Yewon School and Seoul Arts High School. Her artistry has been featured at the Aspen Music Festival and Todi International Music Masters. Recently, she received the 2025 Excellence in Teaching Award from the WPTA.

2025 Winners

Yuxin Xiao

Madison Joo

Madison Joo, a 16-year-old student from Glenelg High School, under Soo Chung’s instruction since 2018, has placed in several international competitions, including the 2024 Concert Artist International Competition (3rd Place), the 2024 New York International Classical Music Competition (3rd Prize), the 2024 Young Soloist International Music Competition (3rd Prize), and the 2025 American Protégé International Piano & Strings Competition (3rd Place). Madison serves as Tri-M secretary, plays keyboard in jazz band, flute in the marching band, and has played volleyball for Maryland Juniors since 2021.

Jonasz Jochemczyk

Jonasz Jochemczyk was born in 2001 in Olkusz, Poland. He is a student of the K. Penderecki Academy of Music in Cracow and his teacher is Prof. Gajusz Kęska. Jonasz is the prizewinner of over 30 national and international piano competitions (in Rome, Angri, Vienna, Paris, Cracow, Reiding). In December 2024, he received a Scholarship from the Minister of Culture and National Heritage for outstanding artistic achievements.

Joohan Sim

I am Joohan Sim, a 7th-grade student at SSI. I started studying piano in November 2003 and have participated in various competitions. In February, I had the opportunity to perform Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 3 with the Prime Philharmonic Orchestra. Outside of piano, I am involved in a violin orchestra and a Catholic choir. Before graduating middle school, I have always wanted to perform at Carnegie Hall.

Alec Van Khajadourian

Alec began exuding musical abilities at two years old, humming melodies and matching them to the piano keys. It was evident he has perfect pitch. He has been performing for audiences since 2024 (four years old), playing various pieces by Beethoven, Bach, Gillock, and Burgmüller. Alec recently won First Prize in the 2025 Charleston International Music Competition. He enjoys composing music and learning to play popular songs by ear.

Jibin Yoon

Jibin Yoon began to shine on stage at the age of 5, when she participated in her very first music competition, having started her violin journey at just 3 years old. She has since won first prize in several major music competitions in Korea. In the meantime, she proved herself to be a truly heartfelt young violinist by winning at the 4th HKIYMC International Music Competition in Hong Kong in 2024, at the age of just 7.

Hyeon Min Cho

Hyeon Min Cho, 16, a sophomore at Wissahickon High School, has played viola for three years after two years of violin study. He placed 3rd in the 2023 TMEA Regionals, performed in the 2024 PMEA District Orchestra, and is a two-year PYO(Philadelphia Youth Orchestra) member. As principal violist of his school’s Symphony Orchestra, he leads performances and mentors young musicians, demonstrating dedication to music and leadership.

Isaac Clavelle

Isaac Fieldstone Clavelle, from Miami, Florida, initiated piano training with instructor Adrian Quesada and was encouraged by his uncle Josh Fieldstone, also a pianist and music enthusiast. In the past three years, Isaac's skills and passion have flourished under the guidance of Armenian artist Armen Martirosyan, especially when playing melodic pieces where he can fully emote. Isaac is humbled and honored to represent the brilliant musicians who inspired him.

Greisi Voja

I am Greisi Voja, an international student from Albania, currently pursuing my undergraduate studies in Dahlonega, Georgia. I am a senior-level music student at the University of North Georgia, majoring in piano performance.
With ten years of experience as a pianist, I have successfully participated in several piano competitions across Georgia.
Upon graduating in May 2025, I look forward to further refining my artistic and performance skills, as I aspire to become a professional performer. Pursuing graduate studies would greatly support me in achieving my career goals as a performer and in preparing for a teaching career—both in academia and in private studio settings.
The piano has always been an important instrument to me, serving as a powerful means of expressing my emotions through music.

Farah Ozturk

Farah Öztürk started her piano education at Mersin University State Conservatory in 2022. In 2023, she was selected for the "International Career Project" of the Tiziano Rossetti International Music Academy in Lugano, Switzerland. She continues her education there as well.

Awards
“Young Talent Award”, International Rhapsody Piano Festival and Competition, Turkey, 2023.
"First Prize", 5 th Swiss International online Music Competition, Lugano, 2023.
"First Prize", International Youth Music Competitions, USA, 2023.
"First Prize", international Deux Mains Et Un Piano Competition, France, 2023.
“Second Prize", International BTHVN Wien Competition, Wien, 2023.
“Second Prize”, Ad Libitum International Piano Competition, 2023.
“Outstanding Achievement Award”International Rhapsody Piano Festival and Competition", Turkey, 2024.
“Honorary Mention Award” Salzburg International Music Competition, Austria, 2024.
“Second place” 7th World Harmony International Competition, Baku, 2024.

Eun Jae Kim

Music is more than just a hobby—it’s a part of who I am. As a 10-year-old pianist, I have spent the past year exploring the beauty and magic of the piano. Every note I play fills me with joy, and through each melody, I tell stories and express feelings that words alone cannot.

I have proudly earned two gold medals in school competitions, and I’m eager to take on more challenges to further develop my skills and gain new experiences. Each performance is a step forward in my musical journey, and I am excited to continue growing as a pianist.

To me, the piano is not just an instrument—it is my voice, my adventure, and my greatest source of happiness.

Polonia Choir

The Polonia Children's Choir provides exceptional musical education and performance opportunities for children in the New York region.
The choir operates at Our Lady of Consolation Parish in Brooklyn. The choir's conductor is Dominik Grzyb.
The choir and soloists have won numerous international music competitions:
- 1st place in the National Polish Song Festival in Opole under the patronage of Polish Television and Polish Radio Channel I in the Premiere category, the International Pueri Cantores Festival, 1st place in the "O Ziemio Polska – z pieśnią i piosenki do Niepodległości" Festival, 1st place in the We Are Free Festival, 1st place in the "Drogi Do Wolnosci" festival, 1st place in the "Young Talents" competition - Polish-Slavic Center, winner of the Voice of the Little Heart, American Young Voices, European Cantates, Jazz is the Best Awards National Culture Center, and winner of the Polish Radio Talent Competition at the Polish Radio Studio. Winner of the W. Szpilman European Song Festival, Bronze Medal in the Choir Competition organized by the Witold Lutosławski National Forum of Music, the Stanisław Jopek Competition organized by the Mazowsze State Song and Dance Ensemble, the "Cursed Soldiers – Enduring Heroes" competition, Polonia Singing, and many others. The choir annually performs musicals in Broadway theaters. The Polonia Choir is a member of Polonia 4U, which promotes Polish and American culture by running an orchestra, a music school, and a song studio for children and youth. The Polonia Choir enjoys international recognition for its outstanding artistic achievements and sound, collaborates with numerous artistic organizations and artists, and maintains an active concert schedule. The choir collaborates with Polish Further Educational Schools in America, the Pulaski Parade Committee, the Polish Consulate in New York, and many other organizations. The choir's activities are constantly supported by cultural ambassadors such as: The Polish Supplementary School Council in America with president Dorota Andraka, Polish & Slavic Federal Credit Union and Pulaski Association of Business and Professional Men.

David Cameron

David Cameron is a New York City-based classical piano student and performer. He has been performing on the piano since the age of six, and has dabbled in different instruments since the age of two. Notable achievements in piano include placing 3rd in the Junior Category of the American Protégé International Piano & Strings Competition 2023, which allowed him to perform at Carnegie Hall. He was also selected as a 3rd place winner in the 2023 Prima Volta Music Competition. He has performed for outreach programs at Riverside Rehab Center and the New Jewish Home, and has twice performed at Steinway Hall. He participates annually in NYSSMA music evaluation festivals. After a hiatus in 2024 due to a severe hand injury, he looks forward to returning to the competitive piano circuit in 2025.

Chloe Chung

Chloe Chung started playing the violin at the age of 6. She has been a member of the Howard County GT Orchestra since 3rd grade, where she has served as concertmistress, principal, or assistant principal for several years. Additionally, she joined the Baltimore Symphony Youth Orchestra (BSYO) in 2022 and served as concertmistress during the spring concert cycle in 2023. She is scheduled to serve as concertmistress on the BSYO Portugal Tour in the summer of 2025.
Chloe has been a member of the Maryland All-State Orchestra from 2022 to 2025. She has received awards in several competitions, including the YMIC International Competition (2019), Charleston International Music Competition (2023), OPUS Competition (2023, 2024), BSYO Concerto Competition (2023), HCYO Concerto Competition (2024), and the U.S. Army Orchestra Young Artist Competition (2025).

Carl Von Merz III

Carl von Merz III, age 12, from Houston, Texas, began taking piano lessons at age five and has performed in multiple recitals, including at the Houston Steinway Selection Center. His teacher is Dr. Chaden Yafi. He received an Honorary Mention at the 2024 New York Classical Competition. Carl’s three younger brothers and sister also play piano. Carl plays baseball, basketball and golf and cheers for the Houston Astros.

Bowen Liu

Bowen (Peter) Liu is currently completing his DMA in piano performance at the University of Iowa under the tutelage of, Dr. Ksenia Nosikova. In addition to solo repertoire, Peter has performed many concertos include Prokofiev 2nd, Rachmaninoff 2nd and many others. He is a winner of the Schubert Club competition and Music international Grand Prix. In 2024, he had his international debut in Brazil with a focus on American music.

Chloe Celinsa Wilian

My name is Chloe Celinsa Wilian. I am a 14 years old middle-schooler in Singapore. What started as my parents' attempt to discover the many potentials I might have during my elementary years had grown into a passion and great interest in classical music. Under my teacher's guidance and the discipline instilled in me since young, I hope to continue exploring classical music and hopefully one day be able play with my very own grand piano.

Jane Berghoff

Jane Berghoff, a classical pianist from Salt Lake City, holds degrees from Manhattan School of Music, Indiana University, and Brigham Young University. She has won awards including the Gold Award at the 2nd Leman Lake International Music Competition and Second Prize at the XI Stockholm International Music Competition. Ms. Berghoff has performed nationwide and teaches as an Associate Instructor in the Piano Division at the University of Utah.

2024 Winners

Opus Trio - Portugal