San Marino Music Center is extremely proud of it’s piano student, Jack E. On June 6th, Jack and his family arrived at the Bob Cole Conservatory of Music. They arrived to participate in this year’s Pacific Stars International Piano Competition. Jack takes lessons from SMMC instructor Ms. Grace Joung. Ms. Grace presented the idea to Jack and we are very glad she did! With her encouragement and guidance, Jack and Ms. Grace prepared diligently during lessons. Jack put forth the effort at home practicing and preparing. Finally, it was competition day and Jack’s name was called by the judges.
In the competition, Jack performed J.S. Bach’s Invention No. 1 and the second piece was Sonatina in C Op.36, No. 1 by Muzio Clementi. In watching Jack’s video from the competition, the young man is calm, collected and delivers a beautiful performance! As you listen to the music in the video, you hear it is balanced with great dynamics and free from tension. When it was all over, the judges thought very highly of Jack’s playing. He was awarded Second Prize in the category of Young Artist A! His family was extremely proud of him. Both of his parents explain it was very rewarding to see Jack’s effort and preparation payoff!
In His Own Words
We took the time to ask Jack a few questions about his experience participating in the competition. Here is what he had to share:
1. If this is your first music competition experience, what was it like for you?
This was my first time at a piano competition. I was very nervous because everyone else was so talented and played advanced repertoire. However, when I stepped up to the piano, I felt confident and that piano was meant for me. As I played my pieces, I felt calm and relaxed, knowing that I was confident in myself. I had a great experience.
2. How did you feel when you first stepped into the room where you would be performing?
I felt amazed because of the size of the piano and the amount of students participating in this competition. The room was very large and quiet, which made the experience even more impressive.
3. What do you recall as being most memorable about participating in the competition?
The most memorable part was when I played the very first notes of the first piece I played. I was shaking, but I played the first measure well, then played the next well, and so on. This made me feel confident.
4. If anything, what did you do differently in preparing for the competition that helped you place 2nd? Did you practice differently or practice more or did you just go about your usual routine?
Nothing special, I just played my piece over and over and fixed small mistakes. At the competition, while I was waiting, I played it over and over in my head to help me stay prepared.
5. Now that you’ve had this experience, is it something you would do again?
Yes-the judges were very kind and polite. Listening to other performers has motivated me to keep playing piano because of their skill.
6. How does this achievement stack up to any other trophies, certificates or awards you’ve won?
This is way more meaningful because it took a real challenge to win it. I prepared well and worked hard.
Jack’s Competition Video
Enjoy this short clip of Jack and his performance for the piano competition!
All of us at SMMC are extremely proud of Jack and Ms. Grace for their efforts in preparing for this competition. We could not be happier for Jack and his family and we can’t wait to see what his next musical achievements will bring. Cheers to you Jack and our sincerest congratulations!
