I've been to all three semifinal solo rounds and was mighty impressed by what I heard. I've been attending the Kapell Competition since 1985, the year our own Jeffrey Biegel won, and I think this year's semifinal field is the strongest from top to bottom that I can remember. For me, the most fun is chatting with the strangers sitting around me between performances. It never ceases to amaze me how people with real depth of knowledge about the piano and passionate love for its music can listen to the same performances and come to diametrically opposed conclusions about them.
I heard none of the preliminary rounds, and I'm also going to miss the chamber rounds, so this is only a partially informed opinion. But so far, I've had the most enjoyment listening to Steven Lin (the only native-born American in the field), Yekwon Sunwoo of South Korea and Diyi Tang of China.
It's interesting to note that both Lin and Sunwoo are students of Robert McDonald at Juilliard. He must have a sharp eye for talent, be a magnificent teacher, or both.
It will be interesting to see who makes the finals. For my money, at least 5 and maybe 6 of the semifinalists are medal-worthy. Stay tuned.
