Tokyo International Music Hall.
The lights gradually dimmed, and a spotlight lit up at the center of the stage.
The host stepped forward, microphone in hand.
"Distinguished judges, dear contestants, and friends who love music, welcome to the awards ceremony of the Sakibo International Piano Competition!"
With the host's fluent English, the atmosphere among the audience was stirred up as well.
"It's here, it's here—the final awards!"
"This is the moment we've been waiting for!"
"Today's competition was incredible! Go, Mr. Burke! You have to win the gold medal!"
"..."
At this solemn and dignified venue,
the official livestream recording it all had also drawn netizens from around the world.
Many of them had not even watched the competition itself, having only seen a few clips online. Yet, just for the excitement, they entered the livestream at this moment of the awards ceremony, with comments in countless languages flying past.
It could be said that piano music enthusiasts from every country in the world were all watching this grand occasion at the Sakibo International Piano Competition!
Inside the lounge, all the contestants stood before the large screen.
At this time, the judges returned to their seats one after another.
From the old men's expressions—some stern, some wiping sweat—it was not hard to tell that the judges' discussion had been rather intense.
Perhaps even after the final result had been reached, quite a few of them were still dissatisfied.
Still, the old gentlemen returned to their places.
The meaning was probably: even if they were unhappy with the result, there was nothing they could do! This was it!
"First, we will announce this year's gold, silver, and bronze awards! They will be presented to the three pianists who performed most outstandingly in this competition. The recipients will receive prize money sponsored