The keys to popularity

Rao Hao, 17, was the only candidate from China who made it to the third round and the final but failed to win an award. He currently studies at the middle school attached to Xinghai Conservatory of Music in Guangzhou, South China's Guangdong province.

In an interview before the final, according to the competition's official release, Rao confessed that the biggest challenge during the competition was to be persistent and keep playing the same composer's music well, because sometimes fatigue could set in. However, as he proceeded, he was able to dig deeper and the music became more meaningful.

Jin Xinghui, a piano teacher who has been following the event, and commenting on the competition, says in a short video he posted online that Liu's version of Piano Concerto No 1 in E Minor, Op 11 was clear-cut and energetic, bringing out a feeling of distinction that he had been expecting.

"He was unrestrainedly enjoying himself onstage during the final and has an interesting pedal technique," he says, adding that Liu was stable and consistent over the four rounds of competition.

As for Rao, Jin says he hopes that, in future, the young pianist can keep his concentration and expand his repertoire. After all, he no longer has to rush into other big competitions to prove himself.