Italy’s Piccolo Violino Magico Competition concluded in San Vito al Tagliamento, featuring performances by the four finalists accompanied by the FVG Orchestra under Maestro Giancarlo Guarino.
Eleven-year-old Hyunsuk Ryu claimed the first prize, earning a €5,000 scholarship and a €9,000 violin crafted by Italian luthier Fabio Piagentini. Baiyi Tao secured the second prize, receiving €3,000, while Margaryta Pochebut and Yunduo Li shared the third prize, each awarded €2,000.
In addition to their cash prizes, all four finalists will benefit from a personalized string workshop sponsored by Larsen Strings and a year’s supply of strings.
The judging panel, led by President Pavel Vernikov, included Sophie Besancon, Anna-Liisa Bezrodny, Nazareno Carusi, Maja Jokanovic, Sunny Lee, and Yuan Tian.
Hyunsuk Ryu, a student of Sunny Lee at the Seoul Central Conservatory Prodigy Class, boasts an impressive musical career. He previously won first prize at the 4th International Music Competition Małopolska 2024, the Young Artist Award at the Paris Music Forum, second prize at the Osaka International Music Competition String Category, and a Special Award at the Poland Łańcut Scholarship. He has also received accolades from prestigious competitions and has participated in masterclasses with renowned musicians worldwide.
