Virtuoso Victory: 2024 Pianist of the Year Award
What is the maximum number of languages a single person can master? The most remarkable record holder, as recognised by the Guinness World Records, is fluent in an astounding 32 languages. The allure of language is not merely in its structure or vocabulary, but rather in the rich tapestry of culture it represents and the innate human quest for self-discovery and global understanding. Wherever our Wellington pupils might go in the future, they should all aspire to master a truly universal language - music.
Millions of individuals across our planet speak an array of languages, yet music stands as a unifying language for all, transcending the boundaries of nations, ethnicities, cultures, religions and beliefs. The elegance of music compels us towards rationality, tolerance, compassion, and understanding.
Last Friday, the final of our annual Pianist of the Year for 2024 took place in the Grand Theatre at Wellington College Hangzhou. The piano's vibrant and spirited melodies, like a breath of fresh, crisp air, awakened the senses of teachers, pupils and parents alike, signalling the close of the year 2024. Let us, with a deep appreciation for music, step into the Grand Theatre at Wellington College Hangzhou to revel in the celestial sounds delivered by our performers.
The competition was planned and organised by the music department to present a platform for pupils to showcase their talent and challenge themselves. We were also excited to have invited Wang Xiaofeng and Mu Sitan from the Lang Lang Academy as part of our judging panel.
Programme
Jane O
Mozart - Ala Turca K.311
Parry J
Sibelius Etude Op.76 No.2
Maggie Z
Samuel Coleridge - Taylor - lmpromptu in B minor
May Z
Chopin -Polonaise B.3 KK IVa/1 in B flat major
Kitty Y
Mozart - K.397, Fantasia in D minor
Olivia W
Colourful Clouds Chasing the Moon
Kitty H
William Mason - Lullaby Op.10
Stacy S
Beethoven - Fur Elise
Alyssa Y
MacDowell - Shadow Dance Op39, No 8
Snow Y
A.Scarlatti - Sonata in G major L.349
Timmy S
Ryuichi Sakamoto - Merry Christmas Mr.Lawrence
Love L
Yoshinao Nakada, The Song of Twilight
Luke C
V.Rebikov - Feuilles d'automne, Op.29 No.3
Selina C
Arr by Tan Valta -Variations on a Theme of Paganini
「Winners」
Primary School winner: Alyssa Y, G4
MacDowell-Shadow Dance Op39, No 8
‘Shadow Dance’ is among the early compositions of Edward MacDowell. Upon his return to the United States to assume a teaching position, MacDowell's profound affection for his homeland, coupled with the surging sentiments of patriotism, inspired him to infuse nationalistic elements into his music. ‘Shadow Dance’ is among his later collections, the ‘Twelve Études, Op. 39.’
Senior Schools winner: Parry J, Y7
Sibelius Etude Op.76 No.2
It is one of the most celebrated piano pieces by Jean Sibelius, who is known as The Father of Finnish Music. Its melody, rich in distinct national character, exudes an unforgettable elegance and is accompanied by challenging technical demands, rendering it a true classic. Many European pianists have selected this piece for solo performances in concerts and on albums.
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Truly「World-Class」
Music Education
In the 21st century, truly world-class music education extends beyond the walls of traditional music institutions.
At Wellington College Hangzhou, children who dream of making music are provided with a holistic professional music education and are immersed in a supportive and bilingual teaching environment.
Where words fall short, music speaks volumes. Every child has the right to engage with the arts, including music, and to experience the richness and beauty of life through music. Each child possesses unique talents and strengths.
Although not every child can be moulded into a pianist, we are committed to sowing the seeds of music within them. Through the power of melody, we assist them in articulating their deepest emotions and aspirations.
While we cannot journey back to the time when the music first echoed, we can still decipher the emotional codes embedded within the melodies, tapping into the timeless spiritual resonance that the music embodies.
Not every individual is destined to be an artist, yet the potential for greatness in art can emerge from any corner of the world.
Where there is fertile ground, the seed of potential will sprout.
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