Park ICM Student Advances to Cliburn Semifinals
Yangrui Cai, graduate student in Park University’s International Center for Music seeking a Master of Music degree in piano performance, has advanced to the semifinals of the 17th Van Cliburn International Piano Competition being held through June 7 in Fort Worth, Texas.
Cai is one of 12 semifinalists remaining in the event. The first of his two semifinal performances will be on Friday, May 30. Cai will be the fourth and final performer of concertos (playing with the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra) that evening that begins at 7:30 p.m. With each concerto lasting about 30 minutes, it will probably be around 9:30 p.m. or so before he plays. On Sunday, June 1, Cai will have the final opportunity to impress the judges as he will be the last performer of the entire semifinals. His 60-minute recital is scheduled to begin at 8:55 p.m. The announcement of the six finalists will be made once jury voting concludes.
Watch/listen to Cai’s performances on the Cliburn’s website Or via the Cliburn’s YouTube channel.
Click here to find more information about the competition and ICM students who have competed in recent years.
Michael Davidman Wins 2025 American Piano Awards in Indianapolis!
Park ICM Alum, Michael Davidman, was named the new classical champion Saturday night after the culmination of the multistage Indianapolis-based national competition in which five finalists vie for the top spot. The award prize includes career management, publicity, an artist residency at the University of Indianapolis, a recording contract with the Steinway record label and a recital tour. Davidman will add Saturday night’s victory to a long list of accomplishments, including third prize at the 2022 Long-Thibaud International Piano Competition and first prize in the 2018 New York International Piano Competition chamber ensemble. Congratulations Michael!
The last classical American Piano Awards winner was Kenny Broberg in the 2021 cycle who is also an ICM alum.
Read More Here about Michael and his week of performances that led to his award.
Photo credit: Mark Sheldon
Nestled in the river bluffs overlooking Kansas City, MO, a musical enclave is quietly producing some of the best classical musicians in the world.
Based on the Classic European Apprenticeship Model, the Park International Center for Music is transforming talented protégés in piano, violin, viola and cello into world-class performers.
Our internationally renowned instructors prepare students not only for the rarefied air of top international competition, but also in the life skills needed to thrive in their chosen profession.
No other American music program provides this intensive European protégé/master training.