This significant event in the life of aspiring concert pianists is over and now the real work really begins, not just for the six finalists, but those who have been been spotted during the entire series of performances.

This event is held every four years in Sydney and among the enthusiastic members of the public sit reps from the various recording companies – all looking to discover that Star of the future.

The winner for 2008 is 23 year old Russian Konstantin Shamray. And congratulations to him. To make it through the gruelling series of performances in this event is one of the ultimate tests of skill and endurance in a pianist’s life – so many are so worthy yet so few are chosen for the final. Konstantin though, as all the winners do, produced that something extra on the night which sealed the judges decision.

But what exactly is that something extra…? well, that is a question only each individual watching these performers can answer. Each person experiences music differently, each competitor communicates differently – beauty comes in so many forms and perspective is as varied as it is individual.

The interesting thing is ask any member of the audience, who viewed the performances of the six finalists that night, who their favourite was and not surprisingly you would not hear just one competitors name in answer – and this is why all those six competitors made it to the final stage. Each communicated something different and special to each audience member - and each judge of course - each using their own musical language.

Konstantin will now undertake an intensive schedule of public performances as part of the winner’s contract - and so will the other five finalists. All are assured of performance opportunities which will surely test them as much over the coming months as did the competition itself.

To all those who took part in SIPCA 2008 - congratulations. For your courage, your commitment and your love of music.