Con alumni set to compete in world renowned piano competition

Taking place throughout July, ‘The Sydney' is one of the most esteemed events of its kind globally.

For Conservatorium alumni Leanne Jin and Alexander Yau, being selected to compete in the highly regarded international competition is a career highlight, and an incredible opportunity to showcase their artistry on the world stage.

“As someone who was born and raised in Sydney, it means a lot to be participating in a competition I have grown up watching,” says Leanne.

“It is a big platform for me to share and showcase my piano playing to the Australian public and music lovers,” adds Alexander.

Leanne and Alexander excelled in their studies at the Conservatorium, both completing a Bachelor of Music (Performance) with first-class honors. Their time at the institution proved to be transformative and foundational to their musical careers.

Under the guidance of Associate Professor Daniel Herscovitch and Elizabeth Powell, Alexander flourished, developing his artistry and passion for the piano.

“I worked very hard during these years to acquire strong performance skills and also to tackle many different repertoires of varying styles and periods,” reflects Yau.

Leanne was taught and mentored by Senior Lecturer Natalia Ricci, who played a crucial role in her musical development from a young age. She credits Ricci with helping to lay the technical and artistic foundations of her practice.

“Natalia has continued to guide and mentor me throughout my musical journey and has always encouraged me to make my own musical and artistic interpretations and to search for and find my own distinctive voice at the instrument,” says Leanne.

"Spanish music is celebrated in my program for 'The Sydney'. Natalia introduced me to the world of Spanish piano music, and ever since, it has been music I am passionate about and immensely drawn to."

Since graduating, both Leanne and Alexander have pursued postgraduate study overseas, and have achieved success in competitions both at home and abroad. Leanne is currently completing her Masters at the Yale School of Music, while Alexander has graduated with a Master’s from The Juilliard School and returned to Sydney to work with Opera Australia and teach collaborative piano at the Con.

Being selected to compete in ‘The Sydney’ is a significant milestone for both performers. For Leanne, the preparation work alone has been transformative.

“Preparing for this competition has been an experience in itself that has challenged me and allowed me to discover more about myself and the music I am preparing in the process.”

As part of his preparation, Alexander has been working diligently to memorise the repertoire and fully immerse himself in his performance.

“Preparing for an international competition like 'The Sydney' requires a disciplined and consistent practice routine, and an attentive ear to listen and work for quality over quantity,” says Alexander.

“I try to perform the programs both in public and private settings, not only to have the musical works learnt but lived within oneself. In other words, to make the music become part of who I am.” 

The competition consists of three stages, with the preliminaries and semi-finals  taking place at the Conservatorium’s Verbrugghen Hall. The Finals will be held at the iconic Sydney Opera House Concert Hall from 18-22 July.

The 2023 Sydney International Piano Competiton takes place from 5-22 July. Ticket information and schedules can be found on the competition website.