NYYPP Showcases International Talent in 2021

Music students bag awards in international music competition - The Varsitarian

Music students bag awards in international music competition – The Varsitarian

In April 2021, the New York Young Performers Prize (NYYPP), organized by the Associated Music Teachers League (AMTL), demonstrated its global reach and enduring commitment to classical music excellence. Despite the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic, the competition successfully transitioned to an online format, enabling participants from around the world to submit video performances.

 

Among the outstanding talents were four students from the Conservatory of Music in Manila, Philippines, who secured top prizes. Notable winners included:

 

  • Michael Angelo Valenciano (Piano Major), awarded first prize in the Lucy Boyan Balakian Awards college division for his compelling interpretations of works by Beethoven, Debussy, and Chopin.
  • Anyah Therese De Guzman (Voice Major), who claimed first place in the Olly H. Kukepuu Vocal Awards musical theater division, enchanting judges with songs from Elisabeth and Aladdin.
  • Alain Cabanes De Asis and Victor Jan Luigi Torres (Violin Majors), who excelled in the Aaron Rosand Memorial Prizes college division, showcasing virtuosity with pieces by Bach, Paganini, and Tchaikovsky.

 

This year’s online format not only broadened accessibility but also allowed musicians to gain international exposure, as the performances from the final round were made available on AMTL’s YouTube channel. The event exemplified AMTL’s mission to promote classical music education and discover emerging talent on a global scale.

 

The NYYPP continues to celebrate the resilience and passion of young musicians, proving that even during challenging times, music transcends boundaries and connects people across the world.