By Staff Reports
(Honolulu)– The City and County of Honolulu and the Mayor’s Office of Culture and the Arts (MOCA) are proud to support the Keʻalohi International Piano Competition, taking place on Sunday, August 24, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Neal S. Blaisdell Concert Hall.
Presented by the Aloha International Piano Festival, the triennial Keʻalohi International Piano Competition showcases world-class piano performance on Oʻahu while engaging and inspiring the local community.
Leading up to their final performance, participants experienced a MOCA-led tour highlighting Native Hawaiian culture and moʻolelo (stories) that have been passed down for generations. The pianists visited the City’s Wahi Pana: Storied Places art installations created by local artists, which revolve around stories that connect deeply to Oʻahu’s people and places, helping them better understand the cultural context of the land where they now perform.
MOCA is also extending invitations to local schools, offering complimentary admission to students from President William McKinley High School, Punahou School, and others, so that keiki can attend and enjoy this unique cultural event that blends music and art.
“The City is extremely proud to support the Keʻalohi International Piano Competition, showcasing world-class musical talent and inspiring the next generation of musicians right here at home,” said Mayor Rick Blangiardi. “We are honored to help bring this level of artistry to our residents and visitors alike.”
This year’s competition began with 15 quarterfinalists from around the world, who advanced through multiple rounds over the past week. The final performance at Blaisdell Concert Hall marks the culmination of this international celebration of music and artistry.
The competition’s grand prizewinner will receive $30,000, and the top three finalists will each perform a complete concerto with the Hawaiʻi Symphony Orchestra during the final round on Sunday.
“Our goal with the Keʻalohi International Piano Competition is to bring the highest level of musical artistry to Hawaiʻi, creating a stage where exceptional pianists from around the world can shine,” said Lisa Nakamichi, Aloha International Piano Festival Founder. “With the support of the Hawaiʻi Symphony Orchestra and the City and County of Honolulu, we are proud to position Hawaiʻi as a destination for international musical excellence.”
Launched in 2022, the KeʻAlohi International Piano Competition was envisioned as a bold initiative to establish a world-class piano competition in Hawaiʻi. In just a short time, KeʻAlohi has established itself on par with prominent competitions worldwide.
Finalists:
Ruogu Wen, 22, from China
Modan Oyama, 19, from Japan
Pyotr Akyloy, 18, from Russia
Event Details:
What: KeʻAlohi International Piano Competition – Final Round
When: Sunday, August 24, 2025 | 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Where: Neal S. Blaisdell Concert Hall
Tickets & Information: https://www.myhso.org/concerts/2025-august-24-kealohi