Germany’s International Schubert Competition Dortmund Names 2025 Winners

Pianist Maximilian Kromer has won first place and a €10,000 cash prize

Held since 1987, the International Schubert Competition Dortmund presents editions for piano and singing while supporting young artists and promoting Schubert’s music. 

First place with €10,000 was awarded to pianist Maximilian Kromer, who will also be involved in a CD production and a media package totalling over €25,000 — the CD will be released on the GWK Records label.

As part of the Steinway Prizewinner Concert Network, Kromer will also be invited to a solo recital in October 2025 at the Schubertiade Riehen in Switzerland.

The €8,000 second prize went to Geunpyo Park, who was also the recipient of the €2,000 Audience Award. Third place with €5,000 was awarded to Fanyu Zeng. 

Lastly, the Mozart Gesellschaft Dortmund scholarship went to pianist Seunghui Kim, who will receive two years of support, including an engagement at the Mozart Society in the 2025/26 season, where Kim will perform solo with an internationally renowned orchestra. 

All prize winners will also be offered concert engagements with the International Schubert Festival Dortmund, Werner Richard–Dr. Carl Dörken Stiftung, Konzertgesellschaft Schwerte, GWK, and more. 

Chaired by Ian Fountain, the 2025 piano jury comprised Ingeborg Danz, Kevin Kenner, Mi-Joo Lee, Jacob Leuschner, Pietro de Maria, and Marianna Shirinyan.

“Deeply honored and absolutely delighted to be chosen as the winner of the 15th piano edition of the prestigious International Schubert Competition in Dortmund,” Kromer posted on Instagram. “It is such an unbelievable feeling to receive this validation for the effort one puts in the preparation for a competition of this caliber. I am grateful for the great feedback of the judges and the very pleasant communication with the members of the administrative team.

“The whole experience — from performing the greatest music of Schubert in amazing halls to a great stay with a kind host family — was a pure joy…that is what life as a musician is about and also creates the stage to interpret the music with full heart and emotion,” he added. “I am looking forward to returning to Dortmund next year to perform fantastic music by this great composer again!”