Emma Rose Koeswandy: The Power of Passion, Perseverance, and Performance
- WOMCO
- 7 days ago
- 3 min read
Emma Rose Koeswandy was a Diamond and Platinum Prize Winner in the Young Artist (Age 14-17) Category, Romantic A (Under Age 17) Category, and Modern B (Over Age 17) Category at the 2025 World Grand Prix International Music Contest
Biography
My name is Emma Rose Koeswandy, and I am a 14-year-old pianist and violinist from Sydney, Australia.
My musical journey began when I was four years old. After school, I often found myself bored while waiting for my parents to pick me up, as there wasn’t much to do beyond playing hide and seek. Seeking a more engaging activity, I asked my parents to enroll me in piano lessons. However, with lessons only once a week, I soon felt the need for a greater challenge. That’s when I decided to take up the violin as well.
From that moment, my musical path took a new direction. I began performing in school concerts and children's competitions, which deepened my passion for music. Recognizing my potential, my childhood teacher encouraged me to audition for the Sydney Conservatorium of Music Pre-College, a program designed for musically gifted students. At the age of eight, I was accepted for both violin and piano. Since then, the Sydney Conservatorium of Music has become my second home, shaping me into the musician I am today.
Could you tell us more about your award-winning work? For instance, how did you prepare it, bring it to life, or any interesting stories behind the scenes?
I performed Valses Poéticos by Granados. My teacher introduced me to Spanish composers such as Albéniz and Granados when I was 11 years old, and since then, I have developed a deep appreciation for Spanish music. I have also had the opportunity to visit Spain, including the beautiful city of Granada, which further enriched my connection to this style.
Valses Poéticos is a stunning and expressive collection of waltzes for solo piano, blending Spanish lyricism with elegance. The suite consists of eight waltz dances, framed by an introduction and a sweeping coda that beautifully ties everything together.
I have prepared this piece with great attention to detail, carefully shaping each waltz with its own unique color and character. I performed this piece at a competition in Romania, where I won first prize. I was also invited to perform it in Vigo, Spain.
What do you believe defines a great Pianist, and how do you incorporate your unique style into your music?
The title of the greatest pianist is subjective because every pianist is great and amazing in their own way. They are able to perform under pressure and consistently deliver breathtaking performances. Some of the greatest pianists are also deeply humble and dedicated to lifelong learning, both for themselves and their students. They never stop improving and remain fully committed to their music. A great pianist should be able to bring out the unique musicality example unleashing the demonic fire or expressing the refined beauty. My unique style is to bring more elegance, lyricism, and refined phrasing.
Can you recall a memorable moment from your career that had a significant impact on you?
The most memorable moment of my career as a performer occurred when I was 13 years old. I was preparing for a concerto competition, but I had an accident that required knee surgery. I was unable to stand on my own two feet and had to use crutches for 10 weeks. My violin teacher gave me the courage to keep practicing and inspired me to stay strong, reminding me of my idol, Mr. Itzhak Perlman, who, despite his challenges, was still able to produce beautiful sounds and perform. You wouldn't believe it when I say that it didn’t stop me from performing at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, whether for piano or violin. After receiving the green light from my surgeon to walk normally again, that performance became the most memorable and significant comeback of my life. The audience witnessed my entire journey, from using crutches to walking again, and they could see how much more grateful and mature I had become.
Would you like to share your experience participating in our competition and anyone you'd like to thank (such as mentors, supporters or other team members)?
Yes, absolutely! I would recommend every musician to share their performance and compositions. Music is about sharing and appreciation. I would like to thank the WOMCO team, including those involved in registration, administration, correspondence, the judicators, parents, and participants, for creating such a positive environment for musicians. I also want to give a special thank you to my parents for their sacrifices and for always supporting me through every step of my journey. To my teacher, whom I deeply respect and care for, thank you for never giving up on me. Lastly, I would like to thank my Sydney Conservatorium Pre-College family, with whom I share this journey, laughter, and dreams.
