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Four young Calgary pianists won top honors at the 2026 IPPA International Piano Competition in Kansas, with teacher Michelle Gao receiving a Distinguished Teacher Award.
Four young pianists from Calgary achieved notable success at the 2026 International Piano Professionals Association (IPPA) International Piano Competition, held in Kansas. The annual event showcases top pianists from around the world. Nicholas Lin, 13, placed third among 19 competitors; Gavin Drew, 10, took first among eight; Mulin Miao, 10, earned a distinguished award among 12; and Leo Drew, 7, finished third among six. All four are students of Michelle Gao at Aspire Piano Studios.
Competition Structure and Selection Process
Reaching the final stage in Kansas requires a rigorous selection process. Pianists must first perform in a preliminary round to qualify for the national round. In the national round, they must earn a gold medal to advance to the international level. According to Gao, everyone who made it to Kansas had already proven themselves as some of the strongest pianists in their age groups. She emphasized that the level of competition is extremely high. The IPPA International Piano Competition is an annual event that attracts elite young talent from various countries.
Performances and Reflections from the Pianists
The young musicians shared their experiences. Gavin said he really enjoyed performing in Murphy Hall at the University of Kansas and appreciated the overall atmosphere. Leo added that playing is fun and also quite challenging. Lin, the only one with prior experience in this competition, noted that his past participation helped him understand the level of preparation needed. He explained that the polish and details separate a good performance from a great one. For example, articulating top notes helps highlight the melody, and using crescendos in the bass can emphasize certain notes while playing complex passages in the right hand. All performers admitted to feeling nervous before competing, but once on stage, they focused on their playing. Gavin said he was really nervous backstage, but once he started playing, his focus took over. Miao added that on stage, he had to stop being nervous and concentrate on the piece.
Teacher Recognition and Future Aspirations
Michelle Gao received a Distinguished Teacher Award from the IPPA in recognition of her students' accomplishments. She expressed pride in seeing them shine on stage. Over the past few years, these pianists have earned accolades at other international competitions, and some have been invited to perform at Carnegie Hall in New York City. Gao also thanked Michael Lipnicki Fine Pianos for its sponsorship of the competition at the local level, including hosting the preliminary and sometimes national rounds. She credited the sponsor with playing a significant role in the success of her young students.
The IPPA International Piano Competition provided a platform for these Calgary pianists to demonstrate their talent and hard work. Their achievements reflect countless hours of practice and dedication. The experience gained will undoubtedly contribute to their future musical endeavors.
Calgary Pianists IPPA International Piano Competition Michelle Gao Aspire Piano Studios University Of Kansas Carnegie Hall Michael Lipnicki Fine Pianos
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