American International Music and Art Association proudly announces prize winners for 2024. After reviewing all the submissions, the judge panel awarded JIA YINUO (Category I), ZHANG CHUANHAO (Category II) as the Grand Prize winners, they will share $1,000 Prize.
JIA YINUO
JIA YINUO, a talented young composer, began her studies at the Composition Department of China Conservatory of Music's Affiliated Middle School in 2020. By 2024, she had won the Ivy League Composition Competition's top prize and secured second place in the junior category of the Singapore Piano Competition (Beijing). In 2021, she achieved second place in the 7th Melbourne International Piano Competition (Beijing), and in 2023, she was awarded second prize in the 6th Liszt International Piano Professional Group. Her crowning achievement came in 2024 when she won the Open category's first prize at the 30th Johannes Brahms International Music Competition in Austria.
Competition Entry:
“Las ruinas circulares”
He entered the flames, unharmed, embraced by warmth without burn. Awestruck, humbled, he realized he was just another's dream. "Las ruinas circulares" draws from Borges, detailing a magician's temple journey. After pondering existence, he crafts a 'shadow' from the spiritual realm via fire. Discovering all is reincarnation, the song employs modal shifts, chords shift rapidly, mirroring his turbulent thoughts. The flute's theme unveils an enigmatic backdrop, contrasting with the unfolding's conflict. The abrupt calm may hint at tragedy, while the strong finale conveys reluctance.
Feedback from judges:
"This outstanding composition beautifully captures the essence of Borges' literature, manifesting in your intricate harmonic language, fervent expression, and lyrical melodic writing. Your musicians' mastery of the music is evident in their stunning interpretation, showcasing a level of stylistic maturity and sophistication that is truly remarkable. I thoroughly enjoyed this piece, which is imbued with thoughtfulness and care at every turn. I am particularly struck by your exceptional handling of each instrument and the seamless interplay between them. Congratulations on this accomplished work!"
ZHANG CHUANHAO
ZHANG CHUANHAO, a gifted composer and guitarist, holds a Doctor of Music in Composition from The Chinese University of Hong Kong. As a former teaching assistant in Fine Arts, he was chosen by China's Ministry of Education for an elite global artist training program, including a US government-sponsored study. During this, he received full scholarships from the US's Pro Musica Fund, Hong Kong Talent Development, and Boston Committee. His compositions have garnered acclaim globally, with performances at prestigious festivals like Charlotte New Music, Ball State University's New Music Festival, and by orchestras like Sydney Modern, Toledo Symphony (US), and Sichuan Philharmonic. He's collaborated with ensembles in New York, further solidifying his international reputation.
Competition Entry:
“IN THE BURIED CITY, I HEARD THE WIND”
In the buried city, the wind whispers of a poem, as snow melts beyond the Great Wall, heralding horse-herding and campaigns. Soldiers return at dusk, gazing at ruins, wistful flute-like winds evoking homesickness. Wind & flute petals drift, blanketing mountains & plains overnight. The work weaves three emotions: battlefield scenes with percussion, strings & woodwinds. Oboe solos & resonant melodies end on melancholy, tragic notes. Atonal techniques interweave, deepening tension, fear & war's ambivalence.
Feedback from judges:
Your mastery of the orchestra has resulted in a captivating and emotionally charged soundscape that is nothing short of brilliant. Bravissimo, indeed! This piece, meticulously crafted with a keen eye for detail and a profound respect for the art form, leaves a lasting impression. I relished every note, every phrase, and eagerly await the opportunity to experience its enchantment once more in future performances.
Congratulations to the winners!
Thank you for participating in this competition. we wish you the best for your musical life, and hope you can achieve greater success in the future.
The award information of other competitors will be sent via official email, along with the certificate and judges' comments in few days.