Piano Highlights from the WST Music Festival 2025

*_{A young contestant performing a piece on the WST grand.}*

Honouring the Piano: A Recap of the WST Festival Competition

Every September, musicians worldwide celebrate National Piano Month — a reminder of how this remarkable instrument continues to shape culture, education, and performance. For us at Emusic Piano, this celebration came to life through the Wilh. Steinberg (WST) Festival Piano Competition, held recently in Kuala Lumpur.

A Stage for Pianists to Grow

Practising scales and pieces behind closed doors is important, but true growth happens when pianists step on stage. Performing in front of an audience, receiving feedback from respected judges, and sharing music with peers are experiences that no amount of practice alone can replace.

This is why the WST Festival was created: to provide pianists of all ages a space to challenge themselves, build confidence, and find community through music.

Highlights from the 2nd WST Music Competition 2025

On 23rd and 24th August, the second edition of the competition took place at the M World Hotel. This year was especially exciting — while the focus remained on piano, the festival also opened its doors to violinists, making the event even more diverse and inspiring.

Pianists prepared themselves in practice rooms equipped with digital pianos, before stepping onto the stage to perform on the official WST grand piano. From the youngest participants in the beginner categories to advanced players, every performance carried its own story of dedication.

Competition Categories

Participants showcased their talents in diverse categories, celebrating both solo and collaborative performances.

Solo Piano: Classical and modern works by pianists of all levels.
Violin with Piano Accompaniment: Showcasing harmony between strings and keys.
Pop & Jazz: Creative interpretations beyond classical repertoire.

*_{Contestants practising their pieces on digital pianos as they await their turns to perform.}*

*_{Contestants performing their pieces on the WST grand.}*

Guided by Experts

_{Our judges (Dr Lim Pei Sien}_{& Chiew Zhi Hong}₎_{were seen diligently evaluating the contestants’ performances.}

We were honoured to have an accomplished panel of judges — Dr Lim Pei Sien, Dr Meldy Tanako, Jaz Tan, and Chiew Zhi Hong — who brought a wealth of knowledge and encouragement to the competition. Their insights offered valuable lessons for each pianist, helping them not just perform, but learn and grow.

Judging Criteria

Each performance was thoughtfully evaluated by the panel according to:

Tone Quality: Depth, warmth, and clarity of sound.
Technique: Precision, agility, and control.
Musical Expression: Emotional depth and artistic phrasing.
Accuracy: Correct notes, rhythm, and interpretation.
Stage Presence: Confidence, poise, and audience connection.

*_{Contestants of all ages were welcome to participate.}*

*_{Contestant seriously performing his piece on the WST grand.}*

Beyond the Prizes

*_{Smiley contestants of Solo Piano Category B.}*

Winners received cash prizes, trophies, medals, certificates, and even RM1,000 worth of Wilh. Steinberg vouchers. Yet, what stood out most was not the awards but the smiles, confidence, and friendships formed over the weekend.

Every pianist left the festival with something far greater — experience, motivation, and memories that will stay with them long after the applause faded.

*_{Happy contestant receiving his prize (left); Proud family of four (right).}*

In Conclusion

The WST Festival Piano Competition reminds us why we celebrate the piano each September — for its enduring influence and the joy it brings to performers and audiences alike. At Emusic Piano, we’re honoured to be part of this journey, nurturing talent and supporting the community of musicians who keep the music alive.

Visit the official WST Music Festival website for more information, and join us in anticipating the next competition filled with new talent, passion, and unforgettable performances.

Brimming with anticipation,
Emusic Piano Team