Schools

Sayville Teen Scores High in Classical Piano Competition

Accomplished musician getting ready for solo recital in June.

This story was written by Linda Mittiga and posted by Judy Mottl.

It was a bold move, but Sayville Middle School student Julian Rizzo pulled it off.

For three years, Julian had been studying classical piano with Tatiana Viscun, an accomplished pianist in her own right. Under the tutelage of her talented instructor, Julian developed sophisticated techniques beyond her years of study.

Last year, as a second-year student, Julian took an impressive third place in the NYS Music Teachers Association Spring Festival Piano Competition.

This year, competing for a second time, Julian mastered a piece suitable for a seventh-year student—J. Haydn's, Sonata in D Major Hob. XVI, No. 37, 1st mvt. Her outstanding performance apparently convinced the judges to award her second place at the recent NYSMTA Spring Festival Piano Competition!

“I'm very excited that I moved up in competition from third to second place this year.” Julian admitted.  

“I work very hard; I make sacrifices; and when you do well because of it, it’s great! I want to thank my family, teachers and friends for all the support they give me and thank them for coming to see me play.”

Her parents, Teal and Rod, could not contain their enormous pride in Julian’s success, especially as they observe their daughter’s daily commitment to excellence in classical studies. Julian has other opportunities to play.

This month, she will take part in the Spring Festival Piano Competition Winners’ Concert at The DiMenna Center for Classical Music in Manhattan, and in early June, she will give her solo recital at Faust Harrison Pianos in Huntington Station.


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