Pulling at audiences' heartstrings

At the Carlo Felice Theatre in Genoa, Italy, the final notes of the 58th International Violin Competition "Premio Paganini" resonated in the air as 17-year-old Zhang Aozhe took center stage, performing on the legendary Cannone — the 1743 Guarneri violin once played by Niccolo Paganini.

"To play the Cannone — it's incredibly exciting. It's a great privilege," Zhang says, his voice filled with wonder.

"I wanted to see what sounds I could bring out of this violin."

On Oct 26, Zhang was awarded first prize at the 58th International Violin Competition "Premio Paganini", one of the most prestigious violin competitions in the world.

This victory, which includes 30,000 euros ($34,600) in prize money and a series of concert engagements at leading venues, solidified his place among the top young violinists worldwide.

Zhang not only claimed first prize but also won the prize for the best performance of Paganini's Violin Concerto.

"This choice was not easy, but Zhang showed remarkable talent through his nuanced articulation at every stage of the competition," says jury president Uto Ughi.

Silvia Salis, the mayor of Genoa, adds: "Zhang's victory is a testament to how Niccolo Paganini's artistic legacy continues to inspire new generations. The Premio Paganini is not only a great opportunity but also a great school where merit, preparation and cultural value prevail."

Since its inception in 1954, the competition has served as a milestone for aspiring violinists.

Past winners from China, such as Lyu Siqing, Huang Bin, Huang Mengla and Ning Feng, have gone on to have illustrious careers. Remarkably, Zhang's win marks the return of a Chinese champion to the top of the competition after a 19-year gap.

The success has opened new doors for Zhang, with invitations to perform in upcoming concerts, including collaborations with major orchestras.

"I've received many invitations to perform next year, and I'm looking forward to collaborating with these orchestras," Zhang says, his excitement tempered by calm maturity beyond his years.

Although the competition was fierce, Zhang remained unfazed. He performed Paganini's Violin Concerto No 1 and Tchaikovsky's Violin Concerto, both of which he approached with a sense of personal fulfillment.

Zhang's ability to remain calm and focused throughout the competition was largely due to the guidance of his teacher, He Xian.

"When I watched Zhang in the first round, I knew he could make it all the way if he maintained his high performance level," the teacher recalls.

"This victory is not a coincidence; it's the result of years of hard work."

One standout moment came when Zhang, on the teacher's suggestion, performed two Chinese pieces — Yangguang Zhaoyao Zhe Tashiku'ergan (Sunshine Over Tashikurgan) and Miaoling De Zaochen (Morning of Miaoling) — during the second round of competition.

These pieces, rich in Chinese cultural heritage, were met with enthusiastic applause.

"The audience was especially moved by these works, more so than by the Western repertoire. They were excited by the fresh sound," Zhang says.

The teacher, who encouraged Zhang to incorporate Chinese compositions, was pleased with Zhang's boldness.

"In the history of the Premio Paganini, it's rare for a Chinese competitor to perform Chinese works," he notes.

"Zhang's performance was brilliant and felt completely natural. It's a way to share our culture with the world. I hope it helps bring more recognition to Chinese music."

The competition included a chamber music round, where Zhang collaborated with European musicians in works by Joseph Haydn, Igor Stravinsky and Robert Schumann.

Zhang's musical journey began at the age of 4. By 9, he was studying with He, and by 14, he had already held a solo recital, performing all 24 Paganini Caprices.

"I was deeply impressed by his focus from the very first lesson," the teacher says.

"His ability to discern pitch and correct himself is exceptional — something many students at the conservatory lack. After just two months of lessons, I knew he was extraordinarily talented."

Zhang's family has always supported his musical ambitions. His father, a doctor, moved from their hometown of Hefei, Anhui province, to Shanghai to support his education.

Before his victory at the Premio Paganini, Zhang had already amassed an impressive collection of accolades. In 2023, he won the Chinese Golden Bell Award for Music, becoming the youngest winner in the violin category. He also took first place at the 43rd Rodolfo Lipizer International Violin Competition in 2024, and this year, he secured third place at the 9th Sendai International Music Competition.

Despite his early successes, Zhang remains focused on improving.

"Winning the Premio Paganini isn't my ultimate goal," he says.

"It's just one of many steps in my journey to improve as a violinist. There are still many competitions ahead."

Contact the writer at chennan@chinadaily.com.cn