Russian pianist Vitalii Khairutdinov expressed his gratitude and excitement at winning the gold prize at the 8th NTD International Piano Competition. The competition, which lasted for 4 days, came to a successful conclusion on the evening of September 5.
During the competition, Khairutdinov faced moments of nervousness, self-doubt about his performance, and the pressure of competition. However, reflecting on these days, he cherished the experience rather than focusing on exhaustion or outcomes.
Khairutdinov has previously won awards at national youth competitions in Russia and international Chopin piano competitions.
Despite not initially having a love for classical music, he eventually dedicated himself to it. Starting to learn the piano at a young age because of his aunt’s influence, he gradually immersed himself in the world of classical music through rigorous training and competitions.
According to Khairutdinov, classical music has the power to change people and elevate their emotional intelligence. He believes that through music, individuals can become kinder and emotionally enriched.
In mid-July, Khairutdinov received the invitation to the competition, leaving him with limited time for preparation. He started focusing intensively on practicing from August onward.
The competition required participants to perform designated pieces within 6 weeks. For Khairutdinov, this meant delving into the Chinese-inspired music for the first time. Despite his limited knowledge of Chinese culture and music, he meticulously studied the structure of the piece, ensuring a deep understanding before bringing his interpretation to life on stage.
Preparation for the competition involved not only technical mastery but also a deep appreciation for the nuances and emotions conveyed through the music. Khairutdinov depicted a meticulous approach to dissecting the composition and infusing his performance with imagery and emotion.
The competition served as a continual learning experience for Khairutdinov. Each round challenged him to improve and identify areas for growth, emphasizing the importance of ongoing musical development.
Khairutdinov believes that true professional musicians require more than just technical proficiency. Drawing from his Russian musical education, he underlines the significance of comprehensive training encompassing music theory, ear training, and ensemble playing, providing a solid foundation for stage performances.
In the final round, Khairutdinov delivered a powerful performance of Wagner-Liszt’s “Tannhäuser” Overture, showcasing his unwavering spirit and emotional depth. The competition’s chief judge, Professor Yao Yifei, praised his performance as a milestone in the competition, noting the resilience and emotional resonance exhibited during the recital.
Following the competition, Khairutdinov participated in a winner’s concert where he received warm applause from the audience for his captivating rendition of the piece.
At the celebratory dinner, Khairutdinov likened the NTD competition to a grand festival, expressing his gratitude for the unforgettable experience and hoping for more such moments in the future.