2025 Sendai Music Competition Concludes Without a First Prize Winner

In a surprising turn of events at the 9th edition of the Sendai International Music Competition (SIMC), held from June 5th to 7th, 2025, in Sendai, Japan, the coveted first prize was not awarded. South Korean violinist Moon Boha emerged as the highest-ranking participant, securing the second prize amidst stiff competition. The finals, conducted at the Hitachi Systems Sendai Hall, featured six finalists performing alongside the Sendai Philharmonic Orchestra under the baton of Hirokami Junichi.

The decision to withhold the first prize has sparked a conversation about the rigorous standards and expectations of international music competitions. Moon Boha, born in 2006, was awarded a JPY2,000,000 (£10,000) prize, a diploma, and a silver medal for her outstanding performance. Additionally, she is slated for several performance opportunities across Japan, including a recital in Tokyo in the winter of 2025.

Third prize was awarded to Chinese violinist Zhang Aozhe, born in 2008, who received JPY1,000,000 (£5,000), a diploma, and a bronze medal. The fourth and fifth prizes were conferred upon Li Jinzhu from China and Park Seohyeon from South Korea, respectively, with Kim Haram from South Korea and Lei Hairui from China both receiving sixth prize.

The jury, consisting of esteemed musicians such as Shmuel Ashkenasi, Boris Belkin, and Cho-Liang Lin, also presented a Jury Encouragement Award to semi-finalist Matoba Momo. Audience awards were given based on performances during the semi-finals.

Moon Boha, who relocated to the US at the age of 10 to study at the Manhattan School of Music Pre-College and later at the Curtis Institute of Music, has previously been recognized at other prestigious competitions, highlighting her growing influence in the classical music scene.

The SIMC, established in 2001 by the City of Sendai to commemorate its 400th anniversary, aims to showcase young talent in both violin and piano categories. Its focus on concerto performances with orchestral accompaniment at every round sets it apart from other competitions, fostering a challenging yet rewarding environment for participants.

This year’s outcome raises questions about the evolving criteria for excellence in musical performance and the pressures faced by young musicians in the competitive landscape of international music competitions. The absence of a first prize at SIMC 2025 underscores the event's commitment to maintaining high standards and integrity in the evaluation process.