ISMAG PIANO COMPETITION
Celebrating Young Talent and Musical Excellence

On Wednesday, November 5th, Utahloy International School Guangzhou proudly hosted the ISMAG Piano Competition 2025, a day filled with artistry, courage, and passion for music. The event brought together talented young pianists from across the ISMAG schools, each showcasing their dedication to the craft through stunning performances.

Representing UISG with pride were Mana Ogura, Jongmin Lee, Shawn Liu, Sophia Yan, and James Yu. Each performer took the stage with confidence and grace, offering a glimpse into their musical journeys through expressive and skillful interpretations. The audience was treated to a diverse program of classical repertoire that highlighted the students’ technical abilities and artistic sensitivity.

A special congratulations goes to UISG student James Yu, who earned Third Place for his moving rendition of Beethoven’s Pathétique Sonata. His performance captivated both the audience and the adjudicator, Professor Nicole Liu from Guangzhou University, who served as the distinguished judge for the event.

The competition was organized by the UISG Fine Arts Team, whose commitment to cultivating student creativity continues to shine across our school community. A heartfelt thank you also goes to Mr. Joshua Natál, who brought warmth and energy to the stage as the dynamic Master of Ceremonies throughout the day.

Whether performing a classical sonata or a lyrical modern piece, our young pianists showed what it means to tell a story through sound: to communicate emotion, dedication, and spirit without words. Their performances reflected hours of practice, perseverance, and a deep love for their instrument.

The ISMAG Piano Competition 2025 was a celebration of resilience, expression, and the shared joy of music. Each student demonstrated not only technical skill but also remarkable poise and passion, reminding everyone present that music is as much about courage as it is about artistry.