New York City, New York (PRWEB) December 22, 2014
The Malek Jandali International Youth Piano Competition announced it has chosen 10-year-old Fathia Ismail from Tunisia as its first winner of its annual competition. In making the announcement, Mr. Jandali said, “The competition was so close. It shows you the true musical talent that youth have today. Fathia really stood out, not just because of her age, but because you can see how talented she is and how bright her musical future is because of that passion.” Fatima beat about 23 other contestants from around the world, including the US, Syria, Canada and Croatia. Fathia won a $1,000 cash prize and the chance to attend Malek Jandali’s upcoming performance at Carnegie Hall on January 31st, 2015.
The idea of this competition was to help inspire young pianists under 18 years old, especially from the Arab World. It is also the first international music competition founded by an Arab artist in diaspora. Malek Jandali’s family is from Homs in war torn Syria. Mr. Jandali who currently lives in Atlanta, said, “I was inspired by the children in the refugee camps who were dreaming to study or play an instrument but they sadly couldn't. So I had to do something to turn their dreams into a reality, and use today’s technology and social media tools to do so.”
The jury, comprised of conductors, professors and music experts, awarded the second prize to 14-year-old Mai Khalife from Syria, and the third prize went to 11-year-old Salim Khamassi from Tunisia. Members of the jury included American composer and conductor Thomas Ludwig and Professor Mohamed Alsiadi. Those entering the competition were required to perform a piece by a composer of their country of origin, and also asked to perform the required “Piano Dream” piece by Malek Jandali. All contestants performed from memory and submitted their video recordings online. After pushing the completion across social media, 23 hopefuls participated in this year’s competition.
In looking ahead to the impact he hopes this annual event will have in the next generation of musicians, Malek Jandali said, “We can’t see or touch music but I hope that I can touch the hearts of these talented young pianists to thrive in their local communities. I thank their amazing teachers and wonderful parents who guided them and prepared them to participate in this competition. Their love for music is evident and their talent is undeniable.” In addition to cash prizes, winners will also receive an invitation to attend Mr. Jandali’s Carnegie Hall concert in New York City on January 31, 2015 where they will receive their prizes. Those wishing to hear Mr. Jandali’s “Piano Dream,” may find it here: http://youtu.be/I1XNMSMO4l8.
For more information, please visit: http://www.MalekJandali.com
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