In a remarkable display of talent and dedication, Cheng Sun, a young piano prodigy from Oakville clinched first prize at the Ontario Music Festivals Association (OMFA) competition on June 15.
Coming off his big win in level 8 classic piano, Sun described his achievement as "unbelievable and very exciting."
"It is a huge honour because there were five other finalists who all played beautifully, and I appreciate their incredible musicality," said Sun.
"This OMFA festival schedule happened to conflict with my provincial swimming competition 'Ontario Summer Festival Championships', and it was a hard choice to decide which one to attend. At the end of the day, it was definitely a once in a lifetime experience that I will remember dearly for the rest of my life."
Sun's journey began five years ago in Hamilton when the now 12-year-old musician first started learning the piano under the guidance of his teacher Ms. Kun He.
"When I was little, piano pieces played over the radio and TV always caught my attention," said Sun.
"I started learning piano in Hamilton with Ms. Kun He when I was 7 years old, now I am into my 5th year," he continued.
"I became serious and competitive at level 7 when I first participated in the Hamilton Music Festival and received three gold medals, as well as an honourable mention in the OMFA provincials in 2022."
After moving to Oakville last summer, Sun found a new mentor, Ms. Kelly Xu, founder of Kelly Music Studio who he credits much of his recent success to.
According to Sun, Ms. Kelly's guidance helped him succeed in the Peel and Hamilton festivals this year, leading to his recommendation as one of three level 8 candidates from the Hamilton Music Festival.
Despite a demanding schedule that included early morning swim training four days a week, he managed to fit in daily practice sessions, focusing on technical exercises to build finger speed and sensitivity. His dedication paid off when he won this year, surpassing 66 candidates from 48 other music festivals across Ontario.
"Winning the 1st prize in OMFA level 8 was the most significant and miraculous experience throughout my entire piano career. It was quite a journey to get there," said Sun.
When asked what advice he would give to students with a passion similar to his, Sun says to take any and every opportunity to perform whether at studio recitals, family parties, school events, or even public places.
"You will get used to being watched by an audience and playing under pressure, which will help you learn to immerse yourself in your music," Sun said.
Even with his undeniable talent and work ethic, Sun says there's "no way" he could be where he is without the guidance he's received from Ms. Kelly and support from his mother.
From polishing notes and phrases to noting down all the details on a music sheet, Sun says they have provided essential guidelines for his daily practice routine.
Though he's received his share of guidance and mentorship to reach his success, Sun has a mindset with a rule that there is no substitute for perseverance.
"Never give up, even if you don't win," he said. "Learning music is not all about winning. Give it a try and give it your all."
Congratulations Cheng Sun on this outstanding achievement!