Iranian prodigy wins full London scholarship

Iranian prodigy wins full London scholarship

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norman lebrecht

December 16, 2017

An unsung feat of cultural diplomacy has won a future for an Iranian pianist.

From the press release:
Ashkan Layegh, winner of the 2017 Barbad International Piano Prize in Shiraz, has won a full scholarship to study piano and composition at the Royal Academy of Music in London. He has also been offered a place at the Royal College of Music, a remarkable double achievement.

Ashkan is probably the first young Iranian musician born in Iran ever to have achieved this distinction. Over 100 pianists from all over the world auditioned for the Royal Academy and Royal College of Music this December. Only a few truly exceptional young musicians are awarded scholarships.

Comments

  • Been Here Before says:

    Sadly, no comments yet about the success of this talented young man. I guess I will have to be the first.

    My sincere congratulations and best wishes for the future! It’s a tough business, best of luck!

  • Neil van der Linden says:

    Congratulations to him and thanks for sharing Norman.
    Meanwhile we have to think of the fact that Ashkan will not be able to enter the US.

  • Fran says:

    Amazing

  • George says:

    Well done, Ashkan, and warmest congratulations! As for entering the US, political stooges come and go, and the ban may be in effect for quite a while or it may be rescinded within a few years. In the meantime there are plenty of places around the world to visit where good music is appreciated.

  • Sep says:

    Congratulations to this young talented man.

  • angelina says:

    As fellow Iranians we are happy and proud of Ashkan! We wish the best for all talented children of the world! Kudos to UK for for supporting the cause!

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