Prizewinners Announced at the Washington International Competition for Strings

Violinist Jaewon Wee received First Prize, which is worth $10,000

Based in Washington, D.C., the Washington International Competition for Strings announced its 2022 prizewinners:

Violin:

• 1st Prize, $10,000: Jaewon Wee (South Korea)
• 2nd Prize, $5,000: Gabrielle Despres (Canada)

Viola:

• 1st Prize, $10,000: SoHui Yun (South Korea)
• 2nd Prize, $5,000: Jiwon Kim (South Korea)

Cello

• 1st Prize, $10,000: Sydney Lee (USA)
• 2nd Prize, $5,000: Romain-Olivier Gray (USA)

The audience prize, which carried a value of $1,000, was awarded to Jaewon Wee of South Korea.

The jury was comprised of Annie Fullard (violin), Daniel Foster (viola), and Emilio Colon (cello).

The winner of each category will also receive a one-year loan of an instrument of up to $500,000 in value, provided by Christophe Landon Rare Violins. In addition, violinist Gabrielle Despres will be loaned a 1790 Italian violin made by Giuseppe and Antonio Gagliano.

All prize winners will receive a performance opportunity in the form of either a concerto appearance or a solo recital. Cellist Sydney Lee will also attend the Tennessee Cello Workshop, which is hosted by the University of Tennessee. There, Lee will perform a solo concert, as well as give a masterclass.

Established in 1950 and sponsored by the Friday Morning Music Club Foundation, the Washington International Competition alternates each year between the categories of Piano, Strings & Composition, and Voice. It has been a springboard for a number of notable musical careers.