Fort Worth, Texas – The musical world is buzzing with excitement as the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition officially announced the six finalists for its 2025 edition. Hosted in Fort Worth, Texas, this globally renowned competition has reached its final and most thrilling stage. The finalists, selected from a diverse and gifted group of 30 competitors, will continue their performances through June 7 at Bass Performance Hall.
The Cliburn Competition, founded in 1962 to honor American pianist Van Cliburn, is held every four years. It is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious piano competitions in the world, launching the careers of top classical pianists.
Read more about the Van Cliburn Competition’s history
Who Are the Finalists?
This year’s finalists represent five different countries and are aged between 22 and 29. They earned their spots through weeks of intense solo and concerto performances judged by a world-class panel of jurors. These talented young musicians stood out not only for their technical mastery but also for their emotional connection to music.
The finalists include:
- Yunchan Lim, 21, South Korea
- Uladzislau Khandohi, 22, Belarus
- Ilya Shmukler, 29, Russia
- Masaya Kamei, 24, Japan
- Kiana Karandikar, 23, United States
- Carlos Jiménez, 25, Spain
Final Round: Concertos with the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra
The final round of the Cliburn Competition features each contestant performing two concertos with the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra, under the baton of conductor Marin Alsop. The performances will be judged based on interpretation, technical skill, and how well the pianist collaborates with the orchestra.
The finalists’ repertoire includes famous pieces by Rachmaninoff, Beethoven, Prokofiev, and Chopin, promising a showcase of dynamic performances that highlight each competitor’s individuality.
Audiences worldwide can tune in via free livestreams on the Cliburn’s official website and YouTube channel. The performances are also being broadcast in cinemas and radio networks across the U.S., making classical music more accessible than ever before.
Watch the final performances live here
What Happens After the Finals?
The winners of the Van Cliburn Competition will be announced on the night of June 8. Prizes include:
- Gold Medalist: $100,000 cash prize, international concert bookings, recording opportunities
- Silver Medalist: $50,000 cash prize
- Bronze Medalist: $25,000 cash prize
In addition to these, all finalists receive professional management and support to begin or advance their global concert careers.
View the full prize list and jury details
Fort Worth Embraces the Global Stage
The Van Cliburn Competition has transformed Fort Worth into a cultural hub for classical music, attracting visitors, music critics, and industry leaders from around the globe. Hotels, restaurants, and local businesses are seeing a surge in activity as fans flock to see the future stars of classical music.
This year’s competition has also emphasized inclusivity and digital outreach, with a stronger-than-ever presence on social media and digital platforms, allowing millions of viewers to engage with the Cliburn experience.
A New Era of Classical Music
Each Van Cliburn Competition serves as a reminder of how timeless classical music continues to inspire new generations. The finalists are not just musicians—they are storytellers, cultural ambassadors, and pioneers shaping the future of piano performance.
This year’s competition has already been marked by emotional depth, stylistic innovation, and a high level of artistry, making the final round one of the most anticipated musical events of 2025.
See audience reviews and critic reactions
Final Thoughts
As we approach the final performances of the 2025 Van Cliburn International Piano Competition, all eyes are on these six extraordinary artists. Their journeys have inspired music lovers worldwide, and the final notes they play may define their careers for decades to come.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan of classical music or a newcomer exploring its beauty, the Cliburn Competition offers a chance to witness musical history in the making.
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