GASCA Hokkaido International Music Competition | Winner Interview - Yu Chenxi Jayden

  • By GASCA Team

Published: Tuesday, February 24, 2026

When six-year-old Jayden Yu boarded the flight to Hokkaido, he probably didn't know that this journey would become one of the most unforgettable memories of his life.

In February of this year, Jayden represented Hong Kong at the GASCA Hokkaido Arts Festival. On the stage of the Sapporo Sun Plaza Concert Hall, he captivated the judges with his energetic rendition of "La Tarentelle," standing out among numerous contestants from around the world.

Beyond the competition, this journey was filled with invaluable life experiences. At the Yasuda Kan Sculpture Museum, Mayor Hisashi Sakurai of Mibei City personally presented the certificate of honor to the young musician from Hong Kong. At that moment, it was not just an award, but also an affirmation and encouragement that transcended national borders.

The most unforgettable moment was receiving the championship trophy in person at the internationally renowned Kitara Concert Hall in Hokkaido. Standing in this world-class venue, Jayden truly felt the awe and glory of standing on the international stage.

From competitions and awards ceremonies to playing in the snow, this trip to Hokkaido left a deep impression on Jayden. Let's hear his firsthand account of this unforgettable musical journey.

Could you share your musical background and musical journey with us?

My name is Jayden Yu Chenxi, and I'm 6 years old. I started learning piano at 4 and a half. I love performing on stage because I enjoy the challenge of playing different kinds of music. I've played a duet with my teacher at my kindergarten graduation ceremony and performed at a Christmas concert. I also participated in the Kawai and Hamburg piano finals and won awards. I love all kinds of music—from Mozart to K-pop! My parents bought me a small keyboard first, and I just kept pressing the keys until my teacher taught me to play real songs!

When you learned that you had made it to the finals of this competition, what was your first feeling?

I was so happy that I immediately hugged and kissed my parents! I was so excited to fly to Sapporo and play music with children from other countries. I also thought it was so cool to make it to the finals in my favorite country—snow-covered Japan! It felt like embarking on a wonderful adventure!

Which piece of music did you play during the competition?

I played "La Tarentelle." The piece sounds quite interesting, like a little spider jumping around. The most difficult part is playing it quickly while simultaneously varying the softness of some parts and the strength of others, requiring excellent coordination between both hands. Before the competition, my masterclass teacher said that this piece is actually very difficult for someone my age, and she was surprised that I could play it! This gave me even more confidence. My piano teacher and family helped me overcome many difficulties.

At every step of your musical journey, are there people you are grateful to for their support and guidance that have helped you go further?

I sincerely thank my parents for taking me on so many travels, making my musical journey full of wonderful adventures. I had the opportunity to meet famous musicians and even attend a masterclass with the renowned pianist Mayumi Iwata. This experience was truly inspiring and gave me the confidence to shine on stage! I also want to thank my teacher Ally for her trust and meticulous guidance, and Aunt Bernie for accompanying me during my daily practice. Finally, thank you to every friend who has listened to my performances; your support is my greatest source of joy.

Could you share some unforgettable moments from your trip to Hokkaido?

The best part was playing in the snow at SNOWLAND in Mei Pai after the competition! It felt really special when the mayor of Mei Pai personally presented me with my certificate of honor. We don't have snow in Hong Kong, so I was incredibly happy to be able to build snowballs and play outdoors. The masterclass with Ms. Mayumi Iwata was also very special; she told me I played a very difficult piece very well. Although the competition was challenging and fun, for me, playing to my heart's content in the snow was the best reward of the trip!

A Perfect Ending: The Sound of the Piano, Glory, and the Promise for the Future

As the last note echoed through the magnificent Kitara Concert Hall, this year's competition came to a perfect close. Witnessing the glorious moments of every music student in this world-class acoustic venue was truly awe-inspiring and unforgettable.

We would like to express our special thanks to the Bibai City Government of Hokkaido for their strong support of this grand event. We are deeply honored to have Mayor Hisashi Sakurai of Bibai present the GASCA participants with honorary awards. This expectation and recognition from the local governor undoubtedly adds a profound foundation to the artistic careers of the winners.

This is not just a competition, but a grand feast that transcends national borders and brings people together through music.

Thanks to the hard work and professionalism of the entire behind-the-scenes team, the power of music can transcend national borders.

GASCA remains committed to creating the highest quality international music competition platform. We look forward to discovering more outstanding new musical stars in future competitions, guiding young talents to shine on the world stage, and creating musical memories they will cherish for a lifetime.

We look forward to seeing you again in Bangkok in May and Tokyo in July for the music competitions, and witnessing the birth of more new music stars!

Enter the GASCA Bangkok Music Competition now!  

Highlights of GASCA's music and art programs in 2026: 

[2026 GASCA Program Overview] Spanning Paris, Tokyo, Bangkok, and Hong Kong: The 2026 GASCA Arts and Music Extravaganza officially kicks off!

 

 The Louvre Museum in Paris is holding its Easter exhibition during the prime April season. Visit the Louvre to witness the artworks on display and enjoy a romantic art-themed holiday with your family!

 The Bangkok International Music Competition is coming to Bangkok this May holiday! Experience the international stage and let your talent shine in Bangkok without taking time off work!

 The Japan Music and Dance Competition kicks off this July! Represent your region and shine on the international stage!

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Generous prizes: There are generous prizes and awards to recognize every outstanding participant!

Valuable experiencePerforming at this international arts event venue adds a highlight to your musical resume.

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