Violinist Shiqi Luo has once again demonstrated her exceptional artistry by winning third place in the A category of the 2024 Bthvn Wien International Competition in Vienna. Her compelling performance of Sarasate's Zigeunerweisen (Gypsy Airs) left a lasting impression on the judges and audience, showcasing her technical mastery and deep emotional connection to the music.
For Luo, Zigeunerweisen is more than a virtuosic showpiece; it’s a work that allows her to share her innermost emotions through its intricate passages and sweeping melodies. “This piece resonates deeply with me,” Luo explained. “Its richness and vitality give me the freedom to fully express myself, and I wanted to transport listeners into its vibrant world.”
The competition featured two online preliminary rounds, which provided Luo with an opportunity to focus intently on her interpretation. “Performing without a live audience allowed me to dive deeper into the nuances of the music and connect with its emotional core in a different way,” she shared. Advancing to the final round offered her an extraordinary reward: a performance at the legendary Wiener Musikverein.
The opportunity to perform at the Golden Hall of the Musikverein—a venue renowned for its architectural splendor and exceptional acoustics—was a dream come true for Luo. “From the moment I first saw the Golden Hall on television as a child, I was inspired by its beauty and history. Standing on that stage was not only an honor but also a culmination of my lifelong journey with the violin,” she said.
Born in Ningbo, Zhejiang, Luo began her musical education at an early age, studying at the Shanghai Conservatory of Music's affiliated high school before earning her degree from the Manhattan School of Music in New York. Her career has been marked by a dedication to both performance and education, as she balances her role as a concert violinist with efforts to bring classical music to broader audiences. She has performed in renowned venues such as Lincoln Center and Carnegie Hall, and her passion for cultural exchange has taken her to international festivals and events.
Luo’s achievement in Vienna reflects years of dedication and a tireless pursuit of excellence. Her ability to convey emotion through her instrument is a testament to her artistry and a driving force in her career. Beyond the technical demands of the competition, Luo’s performance reminded listeners of music’s power to connect and inspire.
As she continues her journey, Luo remains committed to sharing classical music’s universal language with audiences around the world. She looks forward to bringing more transformative performances to the global stage, solidifying her reputation as one of today’s most promising violinists.
