Some disquiet about Leeds Piano winner

After the most low-key competition in memory, with the BBC blanking television coverage, the result of Fanny Waterman’s final competition was made known some time after midnight.

On-scene observers reported on social media (and privately to Slipped Disc) that the quality had been lower than past contests. They felt that the first prize should have been withheld. The Jury, after late-night deliberations, decided otherwise.

The winner was Anna Tsybuleva, 25, a Ukraine-born Russian.

Second was Heejae Kim, 28, from South Korea.

Third was Vitaly Pisarenko, 28 from Russia.

Fourth was the American, Drew Petersen.

Officially, there is enthusiasm for the result. Sir Mark Elder, who conducted the Hallé Orchestra in the finals, said: ‘Once again the LIPC has found a truly exciting winner from some very talented finalists. The Competition continues to achieve the highest standards and I am delighted to play a small part in it.’

Let’s hope the winners fulfil Leeds expectations.

We’d like to hear from the judges. First review here.

Sample video from previous competition: