Piano Travel’s founder, Cristiana Achim, was honoured to participate in the showcase events organised by the International Youth Music Competition from Atlanta, USA, held in two iconic classical music venues in central London: the Royal Academy of Music and Bechstein Hall on both Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th March 2026.
Created to promote the young musicians of tomorrow’s musical scene, the events brought together performers from around the world, including Thailand, Poland, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Serbia, Ukraine and more. The programme featured both Western classical repertoire and a variety of instruments, offering a rich and enjoyable experience for the audience.
Cristiana Achim had the opportunity to perform the virtuosic Mephisto Waltz by Franz Liszt during the showcase at Bechstein Hall on Sunday 29th March. It was an event that brought together musicians and their families, all sharing the joy of performing and connecting through music.
Across both the Royal Academy of Music and Bechstein Hall showcase events, the overall level was very high, with many of the pianists and composers already training at professional conservatoires. A special highlight of the weekend was the guest performance by Father Marco Baragli, flautist to HM King Charles III, and soprano Laura Ansaldi, who performed “Vieni t’affretta” from Macbeth with great musicality and presence.
Through its monthly competitions, the International Youth Music Competition continues to bring together young talent from across the globe, encouraging musicians to share their work across a wide range of genres, from classical and folk to musical theatre and beyond.
If you haven’t yet explored their events, you can find more information here: www.IYMCompetitions.org
Photo credits: George Nicolae Miu
