Aristo Sham wins Gold at 2025 Van Cliburn International Piano Competition | EarRelevant

EarRelevant Staff | 9 JUN 2025

FORT WORTH, Texas— Hong Kong-born pianist Aristo Sham, 29, has captured the prestigious Gold Medal and the Audience Award at the 17th Van Cliburn International Piano Competition, which concluded Saturday evening at Bass Performance Hall. Sham’s prize includes a $100,000 cash award, a live album recording, three years of professional management and concert bookings, and a wardrobe courtesy of Neiman Marcus.

Sham delivered commanding performances in the final round, featuring Mendelssohn’s Piano Concerto No. 1 in G minor, Op. 25, and Brahms’ Piano Concerto No. 2 in B‑flat major, Op. 8. Jury chairman Paul Lewis announced the medalists following a final concert in which each of the six finalists performed two concertos with the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra under Marin Alsop.

Israel/Russia’s Vitaly Starikov, 30, was awarded the Silver Medal and $50,000, along with career development support, a live recording, and a U.S. tour package. American pianist Evren Ozel, 26, earned the Bronze Medal, $25,000, and additional career support including a U.S. tour, live recording, and promotional package. Ozel was also recognized by the jury for delivering the finest performance of a Mozart concerto during the semis.

Six pianists competed in the final round after advancing from an international field of 28 musicians representing 16 countries. The competition, held every four years since 1962 in Fort Worth, is renowned for launching concert careers. Alongside cash prizes, winners receive three years of career management, including tour bookings, media promotion, and recording opportunities.

Sham’s victory marks another achievement for the Hong Kong native, further reinforcing his growing international profile.

The 17th Van Cliburn Competition spanned May 21–June 7, culminating in a highly anticipated final round broadcast worldwide. Hussein organizers and classical audiences alike await the winners’ subsequent rising professional engagements on both national and international stages. ■

Medalists – 2025 Van Cliburn Competition

Gold: Aristo Sham (29, Hong Kong) – $100,000, Audience Award, live recording, management, touring package, wardrobe
Silver: Vitaly Starikov (30, Israel/Russia) – $50,000, management, live album, U.S. tour
Bronze: Evren Ozel (26, USA) – $25,000, management, live album, U.S. tour, promotional support

EXTERNAL LINKS:

Van Cliburn International Piano Competition: cliburn.org

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