Beijing prodigy triumphs at Prague international music competition

Jin Zhicheng, a gifted student from the middle school affiliated with the Central Conservatory of Music in Beijing, achieved a remarkable feat by clinching the first prize in the French horn category at the esteemed 75th Prague Spring International Music Competition on May 13. His outstanding performance also garnered multiple accolades, including the Audience Prize, Czech Radio Prize, Prize of the City of Prague, and Barenreiter Prize.

In recognition of his exceptional talent, Jin has been extended a prestigious invitation to showcase his musical prowess at the illustrious 80th annual Prague Spring International Music Festival scheduled for 2025. The festival, conceived by Rafael Kubelik and members of the Czech Philharmonic in 1946, has served as a platform for nurturing musical talent globally, with the inaugural competition held in May 1947.

This year's competition, held from May 7 to 14, witnessed Jin's remarkable triumph, drawing praise from Yu Feng, the president of the Central Conservatory of Music, who commended Jin and his mentor, Man Yi, for their outstanding achievements. Jin's teacher, Man Yi, expressed pride in his student's accomplishments, highlighting Jin's remarkable success at a mere 17 years of age.

Reflecting on his journey to victory, Jin attributed his success to the unwavering support of his teacher and his extensive stage experience gained through previous international competitions. Notably, Jin secured the silver medal in the brass competition at the XVII International Tchaikovsky Competition in 2023, held in Moscow and St Petersburg from June 19 to July 1.

Expressing his elation at the recognition received at the Prague Spring International Music Competition, Jin humbly acknowledged that this triumph marks only the beginning of his promising musical career.