Two top winners share grand prize at 2025 Heida Hermanns Competition

In a rare and historic outcome, the Heida Hermanns International Music Competition crowned two Grand Prize winners Saturday night, naming Ye‑Eun Hyun and Zhu Wang as co-recipients of the $20,000 top award.

After three performances that captivated the audience at MoCA\CT, the jury cited both musicians’ technical mastery and emotional depth as reasons for the unprecedented tie. Jiahao Han received the $10,000 Second Prize and an additional $500 for Best Performance of a Commissioned Piece for his interpretation of Timo Andres’s work.

“First prize has only been shared once before in the 54-year history of the competition,” said Head Judge Frederic Chiu, a former winner and renowned pianist. “The first two were equals in our minds. Their interaction with the audience and the programs they selected made the decision extraordinarily difficult.”

The distinguished jury included Chiu, Eduardus Halim, Marija Stroke, and composer Timo Andres. Each finalist performed a 45-minute program showcasing technical skill and personal artistry.

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“I very much felt the support of the crowd and the Museum. I felt like everybody was with me,” said Ye‑Eun Hyun. Zhu Wang added, “Art wins, which is a beautiful thing. It’s a celebration as much as a competition.”

Jiahao Han, who earned both second prize and the award for Best Performance of a Commissioned Piece, said, “It acknowledges that I’m good at interpreting a composer’s work, and that’s very important to me.”

Now in its 54th year, the Heida Hermanns Competition continues the legacy of pianist and philanthropist Heida Hermanns, championing emerging classical artists on the world stage.

Kristen Young, director of performing arts at MoCA\CT, highlighted the event’s community significance. “It is truly energizing watching the community come together to support three breakthrough talents of their generation,” she said.

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November events at Fairfield Theatre Company

November at Fairfield Theatre Company is packed with a diverse lineup of events, from live music and tribute shows to film and community gatherings. Highlights include Kelsey Waldon on November 1, Color Me Obsessed: A Film about The Replacements and The Monet plays Jamiroquai on the 2nd, Heather Maloney & Dan Rodriguez on the 4th, Brian Dolzani as the Loner: The Music of Neil Young on the 6th, and the FTC Encore Gala on the 8th. The month also features performances by Zoso, Paul Bogaev, Mike Farris, Tropidelic, Black Flag, Mary Fahl, Shemekia Copeland, Marshall Crenshaw, The Jayhawks, and more, including multi-night appearances from Reid Genauer Soloand festive events like Funksgiving. With something for every taste, November at FTC offers music, film, and seasonal celebrations for the whole community.

November 2025 calendar of events
11/28 – Jake Swamp & The Pine
11/28 – Mullett
11/29 – Faster Things

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November events at PeoplesBank Arena

11/25 – Stonehill College vs UConn Ice Hockey, click here to purchase tickets
11/26 – Springfield Thunderbirds vs Hartford Wolf Pack, click here to purchase tickets

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Two top winners share grand prize at 2025 Heida Hermanns Competition