(Minghui.org) NTD’s 10th International Chinese Vocal Competition was held at the Merkin Hall of Kaufman Music Center in New York City August 29–31, 2025.
The competition was one of a series of international cultural and artistic events hosted by NTD Television Network.
The goal of the vocal competition is to promote authentic traditional vocal arts of pure goodness and beauty and to provide a world arena for all Chinese vocalists to showcase their talents. Singers from Shen Yun Performing Arts served on the panel of judges.
Awards ceremony at NTD’s 10th International Chinese Vocal Competition on August 31
At the end of the three days of competition, one gold, three silvers, two bronzes, and four honorable mentions were presented at the awards ceremony.
Helen Li, deputy director of the competition, said, “Over these past few days, contestants from all over the world demonstrated pure bel canto and their sincere pursuit of that art. Not only did the audience members get to enjoy high-level performances, they also sensed the beautiful messages in the music. The unforgettable sounds truly lingered on. The competition was also a kind of inheritance of culture and tradition. We very much appreciate the contestants’ recognition of the competition’s concepts.
“NTD hopes to create more opportunities for contestants through our media resources and our connections with the industry. It also hopes to spread kindness and restore traditions.”
Bel canto—Italian for “beautiful singing”—is a traditional vocal technique that emphasizes purity of tone, smooth phrasing, and precise control. It forms the foundation of Western opera arias and Chinese art songs, which were both required repertoire in the competition.
Gold Award Winner
Gold award winner Shi Song Lin
“Holding this Gold Award trophy in my hands, I feel immense pride and honor. It represents the highest glory pursued by all the singers who took part in today’s competition,” Shi Song Lin said. “As I lift the trophy today, my heart is filled with pride and gratitude.”
Silver Award Winners
Silver award winner Shaofeng Zheng
Silver award winner Shaofeng Zheng won the bronze award at the last competition. “I feel that I can enjoy the stage more than before and am not as nervous. To be able to stand on this international stage is truly a process of growth again and again,” he said.
“I appreciate this competition for giving me an opportunity to showcase myself. I also appreciate everyone who has supported and helped me. This truly is a great learning platform.”
Silver award winners Jiyun Bae (second from right), Shaofeng Zheng (second from left), and Kevin Zhang (first from left)
Another silver award winner, Jiyun Bae. is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in vocal music at Hanyang University in South Korea.
“I didn’t expect to win an award. I’m very happy. I’m honored to be able to participate in such a grand event. I also appreciate the sponsor for providing this platform. Thank you, everyone!” Ms. Bae said.
She also mentioned that this competition was different from others in which she has participated. “Contestants are very friendly, helpful, and supportive of each other. I think this atmosphere is great,” she said.
“The competition made me realize that singing is not only about showcasing techniques. What is more needed is a grateful and kind heart.”
Bronze award winners Adriana Da (center) and Yuan Ling (left)
Opera Star Offers Master Class
Frederica von Stade, one of America’s most celebrated opera stars and a nine-time Grammy nominee, offered contestants special guidance during a master class.
“The power of the human voice to convey love and kindness, and goodness and strength and beauty is just amazing. And we need those in our world right now, which is so upside down,” von Strade said.
Audience Members Enjoy the Performances
Rashida Ashley, a soprano and creative writer from New York, said after listening to the competition, “This competition is impressive. I think all the contestants perfectly interpreted the works... It was a precious learning experience for me,” she said.
She also praised the competition’s mission to promote authentic vocal arts of pure pure goodness and beauty. “As I listen to these competitors, I, too, am changing.”
Eric Shi, a New York businessman who majored in violin, said that all the contestants at the finals “gave their most and performed even better.”
He praised gold award winner Shi Song Lin’s performance, “Whether it was the vocal skills, outfit, or repertoire selection, his overall presentation was outstanding. He demonstrated extremely high professionalism”
Vocal Competition Winners List
Gold Award: Shi Song Lin
Silver Award: Jiyun Bae, Shaofeng Zheng, Kevin Zhang
Bronze Award: Adriana Da, Yuan Ling
Honorable Mention: Junting Liu, Yuchuan Zhang, Xinxin Cui, Jessie Hu
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Category: Music & Art
