Author: Music and Stars Awards

In the world of classical music, talent often reveals itself at an early age, and Chengzi LI, a young Steinway Artist, is no exception. Hailing from the historic city of Xi’an, China, Chengzi’s musical journey began at a mere two years old, setting the stage for a remarkable career that has taken her from winning international competitions to gracing the renowned stages of Carnegie Hall.

Chengzi’s early encounters with the piano were orchestrated by none other than her own mother, who recognized her daughter’s affinity for the instrument. Remarkably, at the tender age of three, Chengzi emerged as the grand prize winner of the Liushikun International Piano Competition in Hong Kong, a testament to her innate musical talent and dedication.

Her journey took her across the seas to the United States, where she embarked on her pre-college education at The Juilliard School. Here, she had the privilege of studying under the tutelage of acclaimed pianists Matti Raekallio and Kung-kuan Chen. This was just the beginning of her educational odyssey, as she continued to pursue her passion for music at The Juilliard School for college and master’s studies, later earning an Artist Diploma at the Cleveland Institute of Music under the guidance of Sergei Babayan.

Chengzi’s musical prowess extends far beyond her years of training. She is the youngest signed solo artist with the Xi’an Symphony Orchestra, a recognition of her exceptional talent. In 2019, Chengzi marked a significant milestone by releasing her debut album as part of the “Cheng” record series. The same year, she was featured on the cover of a prestigious music magazine, cementing her status as an artist to watch.

The year 2021 saw the release of her second album, “Bloom,” a testament to her continued growth and evolution as a musician. Chengzi’s dedication to both standard and contemporary repertoire has made her an active performer on the global stage, captivating audiences with her artistry.

Chengzi’s meteoric rise in the world of classical music reached a new pinnacle with her debut performance at Carnegie Hall. This prestigious opportunity came on the heels of her victories at the Manhattan International Piano Competition and The Music and Stars Awards. Her exceptional talent also earned her the coveted Ivo Pogorelich Award and the Best Romantic Performance Award, further solidifying her status as a rising star.

Among the pantheon of great composers, it is Alexander Scriabin who holds a special place in Chengzi’s heart. His music, characterized by a vivid color palette and intricate harmonic landscapes, has a mesmerizing effect on her. It is as if Scriabin’s compositions unlock a magical world, inviting both performer and listener to embark on a transcendent journey.

In Chengzi’s hometown, an ancient saying resonates: “Only through sincerity and honesty can one touch someone’s heart.” This profound wisdom is a guiding principle in her life and music. Chengzi aspires to approach her craft with a sincere heart, whether she is on stage, practicing, or interacting with her audience.

In the world of classical music, Chengzi stands as a beacon of talent, dedication, and genuine humanity. Her journey from a young prodigy in Xi’an to a Steinway Artist gracing the stages of Carnegie Hall is a testament to the power of passion, hard work, and unwavering sincerity. As she continues to captivate audiences around the world, Chengzi’s commitment to being a good human being shines as brightly as her musical talent, inspiring all who have the privilege of hearing her play.

Prepare to be captivated by the extraordinary journey of Bedros Shetilian, a renowned maestro who has traversed the realms of music and spirituality, leaving an indelible mark on the world of conducting.

For Bedros Shetilian, music is more than a language; it is the most natural way to express himself. Although his journey as a musician began at the age of 18, his innate connection to music has been ingrained in his soul since birth. Bedros embarked on his musical odyssey as a singer, immersing himself in school choirs from an early age. These formative experiences led him to explore music and piano lessons, laying the foundation for his artistic aspirations.

At the age of 20, Bedros was admitted to college, commencing his studies with a focus on singing. However, it was within the embrace of a professional musical environment that he discovered his true passion: choral conducting. This revelation unfolded in the vibrant city of Yerevan, the capital of Armenia, where Bedros found his calling and pursued his craft with unwavering dedication.

Seeking to deepen his understanding of orchestral conducting, Bedros ventured to St. Petersburg, Russia. There, he became a student at the conservatory, studying under the tutelage of the esteemed Yuri Temirkanov, the Music Director of the St. Petersburg Philharmonic. Bedros’s pursuit of excellence extended beyond the conservatory walls. He regularly attended classes led by the legendary teacher Ilia Musin, eager to learn from the maestro and refine his craft.

Bedros Shetilian’s professional debut as an orchestral conductor unfolded while he was still a student. He graced the stage first in England, conducting the Bardi Orchestra of Leicester, and then with the revered St. Petersburg Philharmonic. Bedros’s talent and unique approach garnered the attention and support of the orchestra, leading to an invitation to conduct a concert in St. Petersburg. The journey of his career then led him to work extensively in Russia, touring Europe and leaving an indelible musical imprint. Notably, a Swedish newspaper, “Barometern Oland,” hailed Bedros’s performance with the Moscow Chamber Orchestra as “absolutely world-class,” affirming his exceptional talent.

Beyond his musical prowess, Bedros harbors a profound interest in faith and philosophy. Alongside his career as a conductor, he embarked on a spiritual and theological journey, attending the Catholic College in St. Petersburg. Bedros’s quest for spiritual enlightenment ultimately led him to become a priest for the Armenian Apostolic Church, one of the oldest Churches in the world. This unique dual role as a conductor and a clergyman brings depth and richness to his interpretations, enabling him to connect profoundly with sacred music and composers who explored philosophical themes.

In 2003, Bedros Shetilian ventured to the United States, continuing his musical career and leaving an indelible impact on the musical landscape. He founded, managed, and served as the Music Director of The Troy Orchestra in upstate New York between 2007 and 2012. Throughout his journey, Bedros has returned to Russia and Armenia on numerous occasions, conducting with unwavering passion. Among his recent achievements, his concert with the London Mozart Players in the fall of 2021 showcased his artistry and propelled him to victory in the Music and Stars Awards Competition, cementing his status as a remarkable conductor.

Bedros Shetilian’s remarkable story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, resilience, and unwavering dedication to one’s dreams. Despite nearing the age of sixty without achieving widespread recognition, Bedros’s unwavering commitment to his craft continues to fuel his ambition. As he embraces the notion that conducting is the profession of the second half of life, he draws inspiration from his musical predecessors and upholds the belief that maturity and dedication are the keys to greatness.

Recognized with the highest Diamond Award at the online Royal Musical Competition earlier this year and now receiving the esteemed Best Conductor and Gold Star awards in the Music and Stars Awards Competition, Bedros Shetilian’s accomplishments are a testament to his exceptional talent and unwavering dedication. This tremendous honor will undoubtedly have a profound impact on his career, further propelling him toward a future marked by musical brilliance.

As we celebrate Bedros Shetilian’s journey, we are reminded of the transformative power of perseverance, passion, and the unwavering pursuit of one’s dreams. Bedros’s musical prowess, spiritual insights, and commitment to his craft make him a true maestro, leaving an indelible mark on the world of conducting.

Meet Grace Ng, an 18-year-old tenor trombonist hailing from New Jersey. A recent graduate of The Juilliard School’s pre-college program, Grace has rapidly emerged as a talented musician, leaving a trail of accolades and achievements in her wake.

Studying under the guidance of Demian Austin at The Juilliard School, Grace’s musical journey has been nothing short of impressive. Her dedication and passion for classical music have been evident from a young age, leading her to be recognized as an ‘outstanding musician’ by her high school.

Throughout her musical pursuits, Grace has garnered a string of victories and honors in various competitions, including the ACSI Solo Competition and Charleston Music Competition. Notably, she received the Boyer College Award from Temple University, a prestigious merit-based scholarship that acknowledges her remarkable talent.

As a member of esteemed ensembles like The Juilliard Pre-College Orchestra and the New Jersey Youth Symphony, Grace has honed her skills and demonstrated her prowess as a trombonist. With a flair for collaboration and innovation, she recently commissioned and premiered a new work by Juilliard Pre-College composer Yuri Lees, titled ‘Truly The Sun,’ a piece that revolves around the theme of women empowerment.

Grace’s passion for her craft is evident in her practice routine. She diligently warms up before delving into technical etudes and solo pieces, all in pursuit of musical excellence. Her dedication to preparation extends to competitions, where she fine-tunes her pieces to deliver compelling and memorable performances.

Beyond competitions, Grace’s musical journey has opened doors for exciting opportunities. This summer, she will perform alongside accomplished musicians from the Metropolitan Opera and New York Philharmonic in Opera Italiana’s orchestra.

For Grace, classical music serves as a constant source of inspiration, allowing her to explore the depths of musical expression. Drawing inspiration from great artists and performers, she strives to make her mark as a tenor trombonist and bring her unique voice to the world of classical music.

As Grace Ng continues to scale new heights in her musical journey, we eagerly anticipate the captivating performances and accomplishments that await her. With her talent, dedication, and unwavering passion, she is poised to leave an indelible mark on the world of music.

Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia – In the heart of Malaysia’s Negeri Sembilan, a group of young musicians is making waves, not only in their local community but on the global stage as well. Lentera Kesuma (LKS), a traditional music team based at MRSM Kuala Klawang, is redefining the boundaries of traditional music with their innovative approach and unwavering dedication to their craft.

LKS’s journey began within the hallowed halls of MRSM Kuala Klawang in 2017. United by their shared passion for music, this group of exceptionally talented young musicians embarked on a journey that would soon earn them numerous accolades and international recognition. Their journey is a testament to the power of music to bridge cultural divides and bring diverse communities together.

One of LKS’s most remarkable achievements was their viral performance of Blackpink’s hit song, “DDU-DU DDU-DU,” played on traditional Malaysian instruments known as caklempong. This electrifying rendition captivated audiences worldwide, amassing an astonishing 6 million views on YouTube. It was just the beginning of their global recognition.

Another viral sensation followed when LKS performed a caklempong version of Blackpink’s “DDU-DU DDU-DU,” garnering an astounding 5.2 million views on YouTube on March 1, 2019. Their talent continued to shine on TikTok, where a performance of “Teruna dan Dara” by MASDO reached 71.5k views on March 23, 2023, with their YouTube rendition achieving 1.2k views on March 3, 2023. These accomplishments reflect not only their musical prowess but also their ability to connect with a global audience.

LKS’s exceptional performances in local competitions have not gone unnoticed. They have consistently outshone their peers, securing numerous prestigious awards. Among their achievements, they were crowned champions at FESMA (Traditional Music Carnival) in 2017 and clinched Gold Awards at FKM (Malaysian Schools Music Arts Festival) in 2018 and 2019. Additionally, they achieved first place and received Gold Awards at FESMA in 2019, solidifying their reputation as a force to be reckoned with in the Malaysian music scene. In 2021, they continued their winning streak, emerging as the top performers at FKM.

LKS’s achievements extend beyond Malaysian borders. They have garnered international acclaim for their exceptional talent and innovative musical fusion. At the Music and Stars Awards 2023 in Estonia, they received the coveted Gold Star Chamber Music Award, Best Traditional Music Performance, Best Music School Award, and Best Chamber Music Teacher. This recognition is a testament to their ability to seamlessly blend traditional and contemporary elements into a captivating musical experience.

In 2021, LKS claimed the First Prize at MUSE, an international competition held in Athens, Greece, further solidifying their global standing. They were also honored with the Gold Star Winner title at the Music and Stars Award 2021 in Estonia. Their international accolades demonstrate that LKS is not only a source of pride for their local community but also a cultural ambassador for Malaysia on the world stage.

LKS’s journey to success is marked by discipline, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of musical excellence. Their training regimen is a testament to their commitment to their craft. The group’s members typically practice around 3 hours per day on weekdays and 4 to 5 hours on weekends. Their practice sessions cover a wide range of instruments, as they aim to master each one and pass on their knowledge to future generations. Discipline, time management, and unwavering dedication are the cornerstones of their success.

Preparing for competitions is a meticulous process for LKS. They begin by thoroughly reviewing the terms and conditions of each competition and meticulously managing their schedules as students. To enhance their performances, they collaborate with outside coaches who help them compose and arrange their songs. Choreography and dance routines are crafted by the group members themselves, with extensive research and attention to detail. Beyond structured practice sessions, they immerse themselves in the music, humming the songs to capture their essence and emotions fully.

Acknowledging their path to success, LKS extends heartfelt gratitude to their mentors and teachers. One such mentor is Sir Mawlid, an external coach who has played a pivotal role in arranging their songs. His contributions extend beyond music theory, as he assigns homework to deepen their understanding of music. LKS also owes a significant debt of gratitude to their current teacher and advisor, Miss Nurin Alyani. She imparts not only musical knowledge but also vital life virtues, including perseverance, respect, consideration, and practicality. Additionally, the group acknowledges the invaluable guidance received from their seniors and alumni, who offer wisdom based on their own experiences and management skills.

LKS’s commitment to making a positive impact extends beyond their music. When asked about a humanitarian project they would support, they express a profound commitment to ‘Mercy Malaysia,’ a non-governmental organization dedicated to providing medical relief, mental and psychosocial support, water, sanitation, hygiene, and disaster risk reduction programs in line with international standards. Their choice reflects a deep-rooted desire to contribute to the betterment of society and aligns with their mission to create positive change through their music.

Lentera Kesuma (LKS) is more than a traditional music team; they are ambassadors of cultural fusion, innovation, and the power of music to inspire and connect people. As they continue their musical journey, the world eagerly awaits their next harmonious creation, knowing it will be nothing short of extraordinary.

Get ready to be captivated by Anika Bapna Agrawal, a twelve-year-old prodigy and eighth-grade student who embarked on her vocal journey at the tender age of 5. Anika’s musical foundation began with traditional Indian singing, but she has since expanded her repertoire to encompass musical theater, Broadway hits, and classical compositions. With private training and notable affiliations, she has already made her mark on prestigious stages, including Lincoln Center in New York City, with an upcoming performance at Carnegie Hall in 2024.

Born into a family with a deep appreciation for music, Anika has been immersed in a world of guitars, drums, and pianos since childhood. From Indian classical singing to American pop to opera, Anika’s exposure to various musical genres has nurtured her versatility. By exploring different styles, Anika has discovered the connections and shared elements that exist across diverse vocal art forms.

What Anika loves most about music is its ability to allow individuals to infuse their unique essence into each song, making it a personal expression of themselves. She cherishes how music serves as a universal language that transcends cultural and linguistic boundaries, fostering understanding and connection among people from all walks of life.

Anika’s dream extends beyond her personal musical pursuits. She aspires to share her love for singing with others, using the power of music to bring people together. Through her enchanting performances and heartfelt renditions, Anika seeks to create harmony, uniting audiences in a shared appreciation for the beauty of song.

With her remarkable talent, dedication, and innate ability to touch hearts through music, Anika Bapna Agrawal represents the future of vocal excellence. Her passion for singing and her desire to connect people through the universal language of music make her a remarkable force in the world of young performers.