The University of Michigan’s School of Music, Theatre & Dance (SMTD) is proud to celebrate the remarkable achievements of its Piano Department students, who have recently earned significant accolades in various esteemed piano competitions across the globe. These commendations not only underscore the exceptional talent fostered within the institution but also highlight the individual dedication and skill of its students. The Piano Department at SMTD continues to distinguish itself as a breeding ground for world-class pianists.
International Accolades and National Recognition
Sean Terada Yang
Sean Terada Yang (MM ‘27, Piano Performance) has had an extraordinary year, securing top honors at multiple high-profile competitions. Yang clinched the First Prize at the Frances Walton Competition. Reflecting on this unique competition, Yang said, “This competition requires its finalists to speak about their programs, which was considered in the evaluation.” Additionally, Yang achieved First Prize at the Chautauqua Sigma Alpha Iota Concerto Competition, and emerged as the Gold Medalist at the Seattle International Piano Competition, where he also received the President’s Prize for the Best Performance of a Work by F. Chopin, the Audience Favorite Award, and the Teacher’s Favorite Award.
Khanh Nhi Luong
Similarly, Khanh Nhi Luong (DMA ‘25, Piano Performance) attained Third Prize and the Lady Roslyn Lyons Bronze Medal at the prestigious 2024 Leeds International Piano Competition. Luong stated, “It’s a dream to be chosen to participate at the Leeds competition, where the most influential and inspirational pianists in my musical journey have been laureates.”
In-Ae Ha
In-Ae Ha (DMA ‘27, Piano Performance) also made a remarkable achievement by securing the Second Prize ($12,000 CAD) at the 2024 Sorel-Tracy International Piano Competition. “Preparing for this competition with only four weeks’ notice was incredibly stressful,” Ha shared. “However, performing Brahms’ Piano Concerto No. 1 with the Trois-Rivières Symphony Orchestra was a dream come true and a deeply moving experience.”
Competition Highlights Across Platforms
Takeshi Nagayasu
Takeshi Nagayasu (DMA ‘27, Piano Performance) demonstrated his versatility and excellence by becoming a Finalist at the International Robert Schumann Competition and securing the Third Prize along with the award for the Best Performance of a Living Composer’s Work at the Borderland Chopin International Competition. Nagayasu cherished his first experience performing with an orchestra in Germany, where he visited historical musical sites, adding an inspiring dimension to his journey.
Pun Punyasavatsut
Pun Punyasavatsut (MM ‘24, Piano Performance) showcased his prodigious talent as a Finalist in the 2024 Robert B. Beardsley Piano Competition, where he performed Beethoven’s Piano Sonata in E major, Op. 109, a piece rich in spiritual and musical meaning.
Cezary Karwowski
At the 10th Seattle International Piano Competition, Cezary Karwowski (DMA ‘28, Piano Performance) earned the Second Prize in the Collegiate Artists Division. Karwowski appreciated the unique aspect of this competition where performances were judged entirely behind blinds, ensuring impartiality.
Celebrating Continued Excellence
The accolades received by these students are a testament to the high-caliber training and support provided by SMTD’s Piano Department. As students continue to make their mark in both national and international forums, SMTD’s Piano Department remains committed to fostering a nurturing environment that encourages artistic growth and excellence. We look forward to supporting and celebrating more achievements in the future. Look out for detailed features on individual competitions and the incredible journeys of these accomplished students in subsequent articles.