The positive power of competitions: it is about providing artistic development, educational enhancement, scholarships, seminars, master classes and performance opportunities

American Music Teacher, April-May, 2003 by Melvin Stecher, Norman Horowitz

Alexander Rabin, 17, Wayland, Massachusetts

"So far, I have really enjoyed the competition. Although I have not attended any other event like this, everything here seemed exceptionally well organized and thought out. I really like the idea of an ensemble round. I feel like I have gained a lot from this wonderful experience, and I feel honored to have met so many incredibly gifted musicians. I forgot to mention that my accompanist was superb and she gave me so much advice, which really helped my performance."

Jonathan Ware, 18, Allen, Texas

"Thank you for such an inspiring week. The competition was such a positive experience because it was so well organized and because everyone involved--volunteers, sponsors--was excited about the event. I look forward to hearing about the future endeavors of The Stecher and Horowitz Foundation.

"You did such an incredible job organizing the competition. The schedules were complex and full, but also very easy to read. Thank you for always having studios available to practice in (almost always with air conditioning). I felt very welcomed--and I felt that my arrival was eagerly anticipated. Thanks for being so warm and friendly. Thank you for including the ensemble round. As a pianist I know the loneliness of the practice room--it was a pleasure to share it with someone for several hours this past week. Please keep up the seminars. Thank you so much for the wonderful week in New York. Please let me know of the future Stecher and Horowitz Competitions."

Amy Yang, 18, Katy, Texas

"What a great experience! Thank you for a rewarding educational, didactic, competitive memorable week! I learned many things. I especially enjoyed the seminars. The duets were exhilarating and fun. I think everything was fine (the repertoire requirements, no elimination, duet, media). Also, this was so well arranged and organized (so much more than other `un-inaugural' competitions). Congratulations on such a success!"

Di Zhu, 18, Rochester, New York

"I would like to thank you for the wonderful experience I had in New York. This competition was incredibly well organized. It made everything so easy. Like Jonathan Coombs said, all we had to do was play our hearts out. It was such a fun week! I met many wonderful people, and we became very good friends. Also, I enjoyed the educational seminars and master classes. I only wish the week was longer. My family and friends are thrilled. I have told them all about the competition and what a splendid experience it was. Once again, thank you so much for the unforgettable experience."

Melvin Stecher and Norman Horowitz comprise the duo-piano team Stecher and Horowitz. Since 1951, Stecher and Horowitz have presented concerts worldwide to critical acclaim. For thirty-nine years, they headed The Stecher and Horowitz School for the Arts and have served as educational consultants to G. Schirmer.