BCMS Piano Competition 2026
WINNERS
Blue Candlelight Music Series is pleased and proud to announce the winners of our inaugural piano competition for young artists! In this, our 25th Anniversary Season, we are reflecting on the many artists – young, emerging, established, and indeed world-renowned – who have graced our stage and captivated our audience throughout our history. This competition continues our tradition of providing opportunities for outstanding young artists, and encouraging the love of music at all ages.
Age 16-18 Group Winners:
1st Prize
Matthew Scott
Matthew Scott is currently studying piano performance with Dr. Carol Leone at the Meadows School of the Arts at SMU. A prizewinning performer and Young Steinway Artist, Matthew has earned top honors at major competitions, being named a 2024 YoungArts Winner and featured on NPR’s From the Top program in 2025. He made his orchestral debut with the Fort Worth Symphony in 2021 and has since appeared as a soloist with multiple ensembles across Texas. Equally passionate about collaboration, Matthew performs regularly in chamber groups, jazz settings, and working with the students of local music teachers.
2nd Prize
Kiana Sharp
Kiana Sharp is a junior at Plano West Senior High in Plano, Texas. She started piano lessons at the age of six and has been studying with Dr. Alex McDonald and Mrs. Marcy McDonald for the past seven years. She has also had the great privilege of receiving lessons and masterclasses from esteemed pianists such as Marina Lomazov, Douglas Humpherys, Michelle Cann, Boris Slutsky, Hung-Kuan Chen, Steven Spooner, and Fabio Bidini, among others. In 2024, Kiana made her orchestral debut with the Mozart Academy of North Texas Chamber Orchestra.
Age 12-15 Group Winners:
1st Prize
Roi Song
Roi Song is a 14-year-old classical pianist based in Texas. Recognized for his musical dedication and technical skill, he has earned top honors in regional competitions, including 1st place in the Dallas Solo competition, 2nd place in the Symphonic Festival, and an Honorable Mention in the TMTA Competition. Roi continues to refine his artistry and passion for classical piano performance through ongoing study and dedication.
2nd Prize
Pei-Tung Tsai
Pei-Tung Tsai is a young pianist from Texas. She received Second Place in the 2026 Rockwall Music Teachers Association (RMTA) Spring Competition and has consistently earned the highest ratings at local music events, including festivals and competitions organized by the Mid-Cities Music Teachers Association and Rockwall Music Teachers Association, as well as the Texas Music Teachers Association (TMTA) Virtual Festival and Theory Exam.
A sincere note of thanks to our Artistic Director, Baya Kakouberi for championing this competition, and to our Board of Directors for their hard work in making it a success. We especially thank our incredible jury including Jihye Chang, Hector Guzman and Anton Nel, and appreciate their enthusiasm for the efforts of these young artists.
Finally, we thank the young pianists, teachers, parents and all who support the love of music in the youth of today. The arts make a difference in our lives and in the world. Your efforts ensure live classical music will survive and thrive for generations to come.