This June, six students from the Olga Urick Piano Studio were selected to compete at the prestigious Carmel Klavier International Piano Competition for Young Artists in Carmel, Indiana. With over 200 participants from around the world—each selected through a rigorous preliminary round—the event brought together some of the most talented young pianists globally. The Olga Urick Piano Studio was proud to be represented by the largest studio delegation in attendance.、
Our group of sixteen—students and their dedicated families—traveled together for the second year in a row, turning this experience into something far beyond a competition. Together, we built memories, cheered each other on, and lived out the values that define our studio: excellence, community, and heart.
Among this remarkable group were:
- Christin Zhang, with her parents Ping Chen and Jay Zhang
- Tony Chen, accompanied by his mother Yanqiong Zhang
- Ava Tsang, with parents Yu Wei Chu and Steve Tsang
- Albert Qin, with his mother Bella Huang
- Ellen Lan, with her father Hua Lan
- Aarna Subbaiah, joined by her parents Aparna and Goutham Subbaiah, and extended family from Milwaukee
These families are the heartbeat behind every success. Anyone raising a young musician knows that real achievement is not just about winning competitions. It’s about daily discipline, creative exploration, and—most of all—the unconditional love and encouragement that keeps a child inspired. These parents lead by example, striving in their own careers and walking alongside their children at every step of this musical path. They are, without doubt, the soul of our Studio Music Family.
The Competition Experience
At Carmel Klavier, students had the rare opportunity to perform for and learn from distinguished judges, including:
- Bruce Brubaker – New England Conservatory
- Aviram Reichert – Seoul National University
- Alexander Shtarkman – Chair of the Keyboard Department at Peabody Conservatory
- Sookkyung Cho – Grand Valley State University
- Angelin Chang – Cleveland State University, The first Chinese American pianist to win a Grammy Award.
Performing before such esteemed artists is not only a test of skill—it’s a profound learning moment. Our students also participated in masterclasses, receiving insightful feedback that deepened their interpretive understanding and technical skill.
Outstanding Results
- Albert Qin (11) – 2nd Place, Contemporary & Beyond, Intermediate A2
- Tony Chen (12) – 1st Place, Solo, Intermediate B1; 2nd Place, Contemporary & Beyond, Intermediate B1
- Ellen Lan (16) – 2nd Place, Solo, Advanced B2
- Ava Tsang (11) – 1st Place, Solo & 1st Place, Contemporary & Beyond, Intermediate A2
✨ And the highest honor: The Grand Prize of the Carmel Klavier International Piano Competition was awarded to Ava Tsang. This special award, unanimously selected by the jury, was given for the first time in the competition’s 11-year history—a historic moment.
All these students hold top places in many local, state, and international competitions. As far as I’m concerned, these awards are only the beginning of their musical journey.
Student Reflections
“This year, I was lucky enough to reach the finals, thanks to Mrs. Olga’s teaching and faith in me. She listened to all our performances and supported us every step of the way. I am so lucky to have her.”
— Ellen Lan
“ As a Chinese saying goes, “There’s always a mountain beyond the mountain, and someone stronger beyond the strong.” Instead of discouraging me, it inspired me to push higher and work harder. I listened to many exceptional pianists. Their skill, passion, and stage presence opened my eyes to the level I aspire to reach. Carmel Klavier became more than a competition—it was a classroom. I’m especially grateful to our teacher, Mrs. Olga, who accompanied us and offered support every step of the way.”
— Christin Zhang
“Participating in this large-scale competition required dedication. This experience not only expanded my knowledge of music but also made me a better person. I am really grateful for having a wonderful and supportive teacher, Ms. Olga, who always gives me the best opportunities to learn and grow!”
— Ava Tsang
“Thank you, Ms. Olga! I really appreciate you helping me participate in the Carmel competition, and for helping me win second place! It wasn’t just about the competition, but also the amazing experience I had there. All these years of playing piano have really taken me a long way.”
—Albert Qin
“I’m thankful for the chance to perform and grow. This experience was inspiring.”
— Tony Chen
“Miss Olga blends classical foundations with creative expression. Thanks to her structure, passion, and support, we’ve seen remarkable progress.”
— Aarna Subbaiah’s parent
Faculty/Adjudicator Reflections
Olga, wonderful to meet with you at Carmel Klavier! Ava is so fortunate to have you as a teacher along with your other students I was so happy to discover. It shows that your teaching and dedication comes from a very good and beautiful heart. Congratulations, Olga!
— Dr. Angelin Chang
I’ve enjoyed working with your students very much! It’s obvious your teaching is making such a difference in their lives. Great to meet you here!
— Dr.Sookkyung Cho
Teaching Philosophy Rooted in Growth
At Olga Urick Piano Studio, we see competitions as stepping stones—opportunities to deepen artistry, not battlefields for ego. Each performance is a snapshot of a longer, richer journey. Behind every polished note is a story of discovery, of a child learning to find their voice.
These results are not random; they are earned—through mentorship, consistency, courage, and belief.
I couldn’t be prouder of this incredible group of young musicians and their families. We came to Carmel not only to compete, but to grow. And in doing so, we discovered more about who we are—both as artists and as a studio family.
— Olga Urick
Founder and Teacher, Olga Urick Piano Studio