Aristo Sham, a 29-year-old pianist from Hong Kong, made history by becoming the first from his region to win the prestigious Nancy Lee and Perry R. Bass Gold Medal at the 17th Van Cliburn International Piano Competition on June 7, 2025. His victory marked a milestone for Hong Kong on the global classical music stage. The award ceremony took place at Bass Performance Hall in Fort Worth, Texas, where Sham’s expressive performances earned him widespread acclaim.
Masterful Performances in Brahms and Mendelssohn Win Aristo Sham Top Honors
Throughout the competition, Sham performed an extensive repertoire including works by Bach, Beethoven, Mozart, and Rachmaninov. However, it was his interpretation of two concertos—Brahms and Mendelssohn—that ultimately secured his top prize. His technically flawless and emotionally expressive performances impressed both judges and audiences, setting him apart from a field of 28 competitors representing 16 countries.
Aristo Sham Makes History for Hong Kong with Gold Medal Win at 2025 Van Cliburn Piano CompetitionThe silver medal was awarded to 30-year-old Israeli-Russian pianist Vitaly Starikov, while 26-year-old American Evren Ozel from Minneapolis earned the bronze. Besides the championship, Sham also won the audience award, reflecting his broad appeal. In addition to a $100,000 cash prize, Sham will benefit from three years of career management, including international tours and a live album recording, paving the way for his future success.
Early Start, Prestigious Training, and Humble Dedication Define Aristo Sham’s Journey
Aristo Sham began playing piano at age three and competing by ten, accumulating a rich history of international competition wins before this event. He holds degrees from Harvard School of Music and the New England Conservatory and has trained at prestigious institutions like Juilliard and Sweden’s Ingesund School. Despite his triumph, Sham remains humble, emphasizing hard work and focusing on his personal growth rather than fame.
The 2025 Van Cliburn competition began with 340 applicants from 45 countries, narrowed to 28 competitors who played demanding repertoires totaling over four hours each. The rigorous process aims to select musicians capable of sustaining demanding concert schedules. With millions tuning in via YouTube live streams, the competition continues to promote classical music accessibility worldwide, a mission strongly supported by the Cliburn’s CEO, Jacques Marquis.