From exhaustion to triumph: Aristo Sham thanks HK for support

After the applause echoed for the winner at the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition, Aristo Sham Ching-tao, the first Hong Kong-born pianist to win the medal, recounted the exhausting weeks leading up to his victory and expressed gratitude for the city’s support.

In an interview on Thursday, the 29-year-old piano star reflected on his preparation for one of the most prestigious contests in classical music, noting that this was his final opportunity to participate due to age restrictions.

The lengthy three-week competition posed challenges for both his physical and mental stamina, with Sham revealing that he took a day off to recharge during his preparations.

Sham stated the stars aligned for his gold medal, humorously remarking that one of the benefits of winning is that he will no longer need to compete since comprehensive assistance, including varied performance chances, will be provided over the next three years. 

Learning the piano at age three and competing at age ten, the prodigy credited his years under the renowned pianist Eleanor Wong Yee-lun’s guidance as foundational to his musical development.

While leaving the city at the age of 14, Sham  emphasized that Hong Kong provides a rich artistic environment, allowing young musicians to engage with world-class artists from an early age.

2 years to rebuild confidence 

Despite his musical talent, Sham only fully committed to music at 21, shortly before the pandemic struck.

“Apart from financial losses, I felt I had lost my personal identity as all performance opportunities vanished during that time,” Sham said.

Encouraged by his teacher, Sham spent two years rebuilding his confidence and began entering competitions again.

Hardship brings sweetness, Sham will receive a prize of US$100,000, along with three years of professional management services, album recordings, and concert tours.

It has been announced that Sham will kick off his Asian tour with a performance in Hong Kong on August 30.

Masie Ho Mei-chi, Director of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in New York, described Sham’s victory as a source of pride for Hong Kong, believing it further strengthens the city's position as a cultural exchange hub.