One competition at a time, SFCM student Hyojin Shin keeps hitting all the high notes. 

Shin won 1st prize and the audience prize this year at the International Piano Competition of Lyon in France. “Despite the pressure, I had a wonderful time performing for audiences in Lyon,” Shin said. “I remember the intense schedule. I was thrilled to win.”  

The win builds on another big success from earlier this year. Shin won the Sascha Gordonitzki Discretionary Prize at the 2024 Gina Bachauer International Artists Competition held in Salt Lake City, Utah, one of the biggest piano competitions in the country, with hundreds of international applicants. “I remember I was excited just to be chosen, as it is one of the most prestigious competitions I had wanted to try for a long time,” Shin said. 

Each win earns Shin a recording and recital engagements, in addition to prize money in the thousands. Her secret to success is a mental one: “I try to think of competitions like concerts,” Shin said. “I remind myself that the audience and jury are there to appreciate my music, which helps me be myself on stage and perform my best,” Shin continued, before adding, “although I know that isn't always an easy thing!”

At SFCM Shin is working with pianist Yoshikazu Nagai. “He gives me endless support, helping me feel less stressed and more focused. During competitions, he watched live streams of my performances and sent thoughtful feedback,” she said. Made up of fewer than 50 students, the SFCM Piano Department prides itself on individualized attention for each student-pianist.

Like any other talented musician she says preparation and practice are key—specifically, practicing in front of others. “Playing a single piece alone feels very different from performing an entire program for others. A successful run-through gives me confidence.” Shin said. “I make a plan ahead to work on every piece equally.”

Shin plans on continuing her performance career but says her long-term goal may lie in music education: “I know how crucial a teacher’s role is in a student's life, and I would love to share my experiences and insights with future musicians.” 

Learn more about studying Piano at SFCM.