Young pianist Luu Hong Quang,18, was awarded second prize for gaining 90 points out of a 100, as no contestant received the top prize for 95 points or more.

Accordionist Tran Thi Thu Huong won the fourth prize, while talented young pianist Luu Duc Anh was awarded a congratulatory certificate.

In January 2006, Luu Hong Quang won a special prize at the Frederick Chopin International Piano Competition in Japan, while in June 2006, he won third prize at the Val Tidone International Music Competition for contestants 16-17 years old.

Together with his brother, Luu Duc Anh, Quang began learning the piano at age six. Their father, Luu Quang Minh, is a teacher at the Hanoi Conservatory of Music. Anh won the second prize at the National Autumn Music Contest last year.

Accordionist Tran Thu Huong was entered in the 18 to 37-year-old age group. She was up against outstanding performers from Russia, France, Serbia, Denmark, Ukraine and Macedonia. She was the only female from Asia in the competition.

Among the judges at this year’s event were world famous pianists, composers and accordionist, such as Sergio Perticaroli, Jacque Grimbert, Leonardo Taschera, Luis de Pablo, Azio Corghi, Sonia Bo, and Giuseppe Colardo, among others.

The annual contest is open to 12 to 37 year-olds from across the world.