The Cinderalla story of this competition must be that of Canadian performer Ryo Yanagitani. Ryo had never played a Schubert sonata in recital before this competition. In fact, when it was announced that he was one of the nine who were advancing to the Schubert round, he said he was torn between exhilaration and complete panic. He told Melissa Ousley that as soon as those names were announced, there was a mass exodus - nine pianists running for the practice room. No one ran faster than Ryo, who wasn't sure he even had the piece memorized yet. Obviously, he had it more than memorized. He had absorbed it. He walks away with the $4000 Schubert Prize in addition to the 2nd prize in the overall competition.
Congratulations, Ryo!
Love the music?
Show your support by making a gift to YourClassical.
Each day, we’re here for you with thoughtful streams that set the tone for your day – not to mention the stories and programs that inspire you to new discovery and help you explore the music you love.
YourClassical is available for free, because we are listener-supported public media. Take a moment to make your gift today.