After three breathtaking performances that held the audience spellbound for hours, the judges of the Heida Hermanns International Music Competition made an unexpected decision on November 15 by naming two Grand Prize winners: Ye‑Eun Hyun and Zhu Wang.
Ye‑Eun Hyun and Zhu Wang, though stylistically distinct, both impressed the jury with technical brilliance and emotional depth. Each was awarded the $20,000 First Prize, sponsored by Norman and Suzanne Sorensen. Jiahao Han was awarded the $10,000 Second Prize and an additional $500 for Best Performance of a Commissioned Piece, recognized for his interpretation of Timo Andres’s work, Competition.
“I think we all had very strong opinions about the order, and the first two were equals in our minds,” said Head Judge Frederic Chiu, a renowned pianist and former winner of the Heida Competition, explaining the surprising decision to name two grand prize winners. First prize has only been shared once before in the 54-year history of the prize, back in 2013, when Josh Wright and Timur Mustakimov were both honored.
Chiu elaborated on the judges’ approach: “The intimate setting really puts a spotlight on them as people—not just how they play but how they present themselves and what program they selected. Their interaction with the audience is truly considered.”
Joining Chiu on the distinguished jury were Eduardus Halim, Marija Stroke, and Timo Andres, all tasked with selecting between three exceptional musicians, each delivering a 45-minute performance.
“It was a complete surprise and I am very honored,” said Grand Prize winner Ye‑Eun Hyun. “I very much felt the support of the crowd and the Museum. I felt like everybody was with me.”
Jiahao Han expressed his excitement over receiving both the second prize and the award for Best Performance of a Commissioned Piece: “I’m really so honored. It was beyond any expectation. It acknowledges that I’m good at interpreting a composer’s work, and that’s very important to me.”
Finalist Zhu Wang, who shared the Grand Prize, reflected on the rare outcome: “Art wins, which is a beautiful thing,” he said. “I am truly grateful for the generosity of MoCA\CT in supporting us. Not just me, but all three of us. You really feel it’s like a celebration as much as a competition, which makes it that much more special.”
Now in its 54th year, the Heida Hermanns International Music Competition continues to honor the legacy of pianist and philanthropist Heida Hermanns (1906–1995), championing emerging artists on the world stage.
Kristen Young, MoCA\CT’s Director of Performing Arts, noted the importance of the competition’s connection to the broader community, saying, “It is truly energizing watching the community come together to support three breakthrough talents of their generation who are defining the new wave of classical music.”
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