Saehyun Kim emerged victorious at the 2025 Long-Thibaud International Piano Competition, a prestigious event held in Paris every three years. This renowned competition, which rotates between violin and piano editions, boasts a substantial prize fund exceeding €80,000. The 17-year-old prodigy from South Korea, Saehyun Kim, clinched the coveted first prize of €35,000 with a captivating performance of Rachmaninoff’s Concerto No. 3, Op. 30 alongside the Orchestra of the Republican Guard under the baton of Bastien Stil.
Kim’s triumph not only secured his cash prize but also granted him the opportunity to showcase his talents at the esteemed “Concert de Paris” on July 14, 2025, in front of a massive audience of 400,000 attendees. Currently pursuing a dual degree program, Kim is balancing his studies for a Bachelor of Arts at Harvard College and a Master of Music at the New England Conservatory.
While the second place remained unawarded, the third prize, amounting to €12,000, was bestowed upon Hyo Lee from South Korea. Sharing the fourth place, each receiving €8,000, were Masaharu Kambara from Japan and Tiankun Ma from China. The fifth prize, valued at €6,000, was claimed by Canadian pianist Eric Guo.
In addition to the cash rewards, the laureates are set to kickstart their professional journeys by performing at renowned festivals including Opéra de Monte Carlo, Piano à Aix-en-Provence, Gstaad New Year Music Festival, Association Chopin de Lyon, and Opéra Royal du Château de Versailles, among others.
The distinguished panel of judges for the 2025 piano edition comprised illustrious figures such as Mikhail Rudy, François-René Duchable, Tania Heidsieck, Hélène Mercier, and other esteemed personalities. The competition expressed its admiration for all participants’ exceptional performances and deep artistic dedication.
The Long-Thibaud International Piano Competition stands as a beacon for emerging talents in the classical music realm, providing a platform for young virtuosos to shine on the global stage. Saehyun Kim’s triumph underscores the enduring allure and significance of piano competitions in nurturing the next generation of musical luminaries.
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