When did you start playing the piano?

At the age of six. I remember listening to an album of children’s songs on repeat and then trying to play it on a toy piano by ear. Eventually, my parents decided to start me on piano lessons.

Alexander Yau stands on a walkway by a river with his fist under his chin.

Alexander Yau. Photo supplied

  Why did you enter the Sydney International Piano Competition?

I wanted to challenge and improve myself even further as a concert pianist. This competition is rather special to me because it is held in my home city, and I am privileged to have my close friends and family watch me perform on an international platform. The Sydney is also one of the most interesting competitions as the repertoire guidelines are very free, encouraging artists to be inventive and make diverse programming choices. 

How important is a competition like this to you?

I see competitions as more of a musical festival than a competitive event. The Sydney gathers some of the best pianists of my age. It is a total joy to be part of it, to connect and make friends. Of course, entering a...