Praise for Shenzhen's International Piano Contest has been given by the leader of a worldwide foundation for musicians.

Dr. Gustav A. Alink -- director of the Alink-Argerich Foundation -- praised event organizers after attending the first round of the competition earlier this week. The foundation is an independent worldwide information and service center for musicians and competitions.

In a letter to express his gratitude, he said there were several factors which made the Shenzhen event stand out from other competitions:

"First, the repertoire has a clear focus on the piano concerto. This aspect is very welcome in the world of piano competitions.

"Secondly, arranging master classes, given by jury members to contestants who did not pass the first stage, is a truly excellent idea. A large majority of the people involved very much appreciate this initiative. Another very positive sign is that the jury members have also given their full co-operation."

He said the fact that contestants are accommodated with host families and may all stay until the end of the competition was a very kind gesture. "It's an important step in bringing the people of China in contact with young, highly talented musicians from different countries and cultures and vice versa," he said.

Editor: Donald