22/4/2010 [Services]
"I wish I'd never given up my piano lessons" -- one of the most familiar phrases heard throughout the length and breadth of the land as people reminisce, or are moved by a beautiful piece of music; the truly universal language.
Now, for the thousands of passionate amateurs from all walks of life who persisted with the crotchets, quavers and left hand exercises, Kemble Pianos, part of the Yamaha group of companies are offering a fantastic opportunity to get noticed, get showcased and win a 'special edition' Kemble Chopin Piano worth over ￡8000.
John Evans is editor of Classic FM Magazine and one of the judges, he told Round Up "We’re not just looking for technical ability; we’ll be looking for passion and performances that move us. I was inspired by this Chopin e-competition because, thanks to the YouTube entry format, it’s open to absolutely anyone."
Open to anyone over the age of 18, the 'Kemble Chopin Piano E-Competition' launched on a dedicated YouTube Channel in April 2010. Applicants will be asked to submit video entries of any piece from Chopin's solo piano works via this Channel. First prize is a special edition ‘Kemble Chopin’ upright piano worth over ￡8000, together with a private piano lesson from Kevin Kenner, one of the competition judges, who was awarded the top prize at the International Chopin Competition in Warsaw.
The organisers are particularly keen to encourage non-professional pianists with no formal music education to apply, and will be using the competition and YouTube platforms to showcase passionate UK amateur piano talent from all walks of life.
A new website has also been established http://www.kemble-pianos.com where prospective applicants can view the rules and download application forms. The YouTube channel will also feature a range of interviews with artists and judges including Freddy Kempf, Christopher Elton, Marina Nadiradze, and Classic FM's editor John Evans, covering Chopin works. It will also provide hints and tips together with helpful advice on creating the best video results.
Entries will close on August 1st 2010, following which a public vote will take place to nominate a shortlist of semi-finalists. The judges will then pick the prize winners from this list.
