The 2020 Steinway Virtual Piano Competition was unprecedented in scale, with over 1,800 young pianists participating from around the world. Placing third in my age group was an unexpected honor that taught me valuable lessons about virtual performance.

Adapting to Virtual Competition

The virtual format presented unique challenges:

• Recording quality and piano sound reproduction
• Creating compelling performances without live audience energy
• Technical aspects of video production

My Winning Program

I focused on works that would translate well to recording while showcasing my strengths:

• Haydn's Sonata in E minor, Hob. XVI:34
• Chopin's Nocturne in C-sharp minor, Op. posth.
• Prokofiev's "Suggestion Diabolique," Op. 4 No. 4

This competition taught me that musical communication transcends format - whether live or virtual, authenticity and technical command shine through.