The semifinals of the 72nd ARD International Music Competition took place Sept. 3, accompanied by the Münchener Kammerorchester. Of the six harpists selected as semifinalists, the three contestants advancing to the finals are:
Alexandra Bidi, France
Tjasha Gafner, Switzerland
Lea Maria Löffler, Germany
Finalists will compete on Sept. 6 accompanied by the Symphonieorchester des Bayerischen Rundfunks. The first round took place Aug. 28–30. The second round took place Aug. 31 and Sept. 1.
First established in 1952, the ARD International Music Competition takes place annually in Munich. It is named for the association of German public radio broadcasters which hosts the competition. Each year’s competition features a different set of instrument and ensemble categories, which means harpists only have the chance to compete every few years. Previous harp winners include Agnès Clément (2016), Emmanuel Ceysson (2009), Anton Sie (2004), and Isabelle Moretti (1983).
For more information, visit the competition website.
