National Bernstein Masterclass & Piano Competition 2022

Wrapping up the 2022 Bernstein Masterclass Series and Piano Competition Series

4th October, 2022.

The 2022 Bernstein Masterclass and Piano Competition Series delivered breathtaking talent from over 50 young pianists, many of whom demonstrated musical depth far beyond their years.

The 2022 Masterclass series was a sell-out event, with waiting lists for places. This special opportunity of connecting young students with Professor level teachers, provides enrichment which is otherwise not possible.

On Sunday 2nd October, the Bernstein Australia Piano Competition Final was held at Bernies Music Land in Melbourne. Usually featuring finalists from around Australia, this year’s finals were limited to Melbourne participants as the complications of Covid continue to linger.

The Junior division featured nine finalists under the age of 12. A program of great diversity was enjoyed by the audience, with crowd favourites including Chopin Nocturnes, Debussy and Hadyn, along with interesting pieces by Moszkowski and Lutoslawski.

Adjudicator Judith Lambden praised the junior finalists on selecting “happy, joyful and uplifting pieces” to perform, and believes this contributes to the enjoyment of playing.

Co-adjudicator Robert Chamberlain found the choice of pieces interesting and praised the hard work of the students and teachers, which was reflected in the excellent choice of pieces.

First, second and third place winners were awarded beautiful trophies and cash prizes. Two Honourable Mentions were presented to equally deserving performers.

1st Place  Melody Huang

2nd Place  Madeline Ong

3rd Place  Aaron Su

H.M.    Julia Rozenkova

H.M.    Stephy Cai

The Senior division featured 10 brilliant young pianists up to age 16. A program of showstopping pieces was delivered with impressive technical prowess by all performers. It was incredible to witness the advanced musicianship and beautiful pianistic interpretation of these young artists.

To suit the requirements of “two contrasting pieces of maximum 10 minutes”, the performers selected a delightful variety of music from composers including Hadyn, Grainger, Bortkiewicz, Chaminade, Albeniz, Debussy and Sonny Chua.

Adjudicators Darryl Coote and Tony Toppi recognised four stand-out performances, and awarded an Honourable Mention in addition to the three prizes.

1st Place  Melissa Gu

2nd Place  Haoquing Leo Lu

3rd Place  Michelle Zhang

H.M.    Hugo Chang

Bernstein Australia and Bernies Music Land have been commended for delivering such a friendly and encouraging opportunity for young pianists.

The 2023 Bernstein Masterclass and Piano Competition Series will be announced in January so please stay tuned.

Best wishes,

Michelle Capicchiano B.B., B.A., AMAMI

Promotions Manager.

Email: [email protected]

Tel: 9872 5122

The Bernstein Piano Competition is proudly Australia’s longest running branded piano competition.

Since 1988, the Bernstein Masterclass and Piano Competition series has encouraged generations of piano students, with performance and competition experience, outstanding cash prizes and beautiful trophies.

This event has developed with the guidance of principal members of the renowned Team of Pianists, who continue to have a great involvement, as guest teachers and adjudicators.

View the 2022 Bernstein Masterclass Brochure here.