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Vilnius – International M.K. Ciurlionis Piano and Organ Competition
September 13 - September 24
The spirit of M. K. Čiurlionis soars through his works and becomes a heritage of thought.
We listen, hear inside ourselves and perform by conversing his words of different arts on everything around.
And the music – it is not just a music if we would consider understanding of it only as the art of sound, the sounding beauty. There is more. Like Bach and Beethoven, Čiurlionis shows that music is thinking itself, a way of thinking about life and its content.
Let’s discover. Musicians, let’s participate in the world of thought.
The Honorary Chairman of the International M. K. Čiurlionis Piano and Organ Competition Prof. Vytautas Landsbergis
Participants Piano Competition
Participants Organ Competition
Review:
The 9th International M. K. Čiurlionis Piano and Organ Competition 2023
Nestled within the historic walls of the Lithuanian National Philharmonic, the 9th International M. K. Čiurlionis Piano and Organ Competition unveiled a musical spectacle that resonated with the ages. In this captivating event, talent knew no boundaries, and the enchanting notes that filled the air were a testament to the enduring legacy of Mikalojus Kostantinas Čiurlionis.
At the heart of this musical extravaganza was the prodigious Jinhyung Park, a virtuoso pianist hailing from Seoul, whose fingers danced across the keys and captured the very essence of Čiurlionis’ compositions. Under the guidance of maestro Arie Vardi in Hannover, Park’s brilliance earned him the coveted First Prize, leaving the audience spellbound from the first round to the grand finale. His interpretation of Čiurlionis’ Fuga b-moll was nothing short of a masterpiece, a testament to his unparalleled skill and profound connection with the music.
Sharing the stage with Park were two remarkable talents from Vilnius, Simonas Poska and Kasparas Mikuzis, who clinched the Second and Third Prizes, respectively. Their performances were marked by finesse and passion, a tribute to the rich musical heritage of Lithuania.
In the realm of organ music, Jan Kopriva emerged victorious, his mastery of the instrument earning him the First Prize. Tatiana Pernetova followed closely, claiming the Second Prize with her awe-inspiring performance. Aaron Voderholzer and Laura Schlappa, both exceptionally gifted, shared the Third Prize in a display of extraordinary talent.
The competition was not merely a stage for musical brilliance; it was a forum for intellectual discourse. A panel discussion, titled “Competitions and a performer’s career: mission (im)possible?”, provided profound insights into the challenges and aspirations of young musicians. Moderated by the insightful musicologist Lina Navickaite-Martinelli, the discussion featured luminaries like Muza Rubackyte, Gustav Alink, and Florian Riem, enriching the minds of both participants and spectators.
Rooted in history, the M. K. Čiurlionis Competition has blossomed into a global celebration of music. From its humble beginnings in 1965 to its present international stature, the competition stands as a beacon of Lithuania’s musical heritage. Its Honorary Chairman, Prof. Vytautas Landsbergis, encapsulated the spirit of the event eloquently, reminding us that music transcends the mere art of sound. It is a profound reflection, a way of thinking about life and its complexities, echoing the sentiments of the great masters like Bach, Beethoven, and, of course, Čiurlionis himself.
As the melodies of this exceptional competition continue to resonate in our hearts and minds, we are left in awe of the boundless talent displayed by these remarkable musicians. The 9th International M. K. Čiurlionis Piano and Organ Competition was not just an event; it was a transcendent experience, reminding us of the enduring power of music to uplift, inspire, and unite us all. Bravo to the performers, the organizers, and the luminaries behind this magnificent celebration of musical artistry!
Winners and jury on stage after the finals!