Cliburn-winning pianist Aristo Sham to perform in Aspen

Aristo Sham is all smiles after winning the gold medal at the 2025 Van Cliburn International Piano Competition — one of the most prestigious classical music competitions in the world.  

“It’s bringing everything that I have to offer, artistically, musically, and giving people an experience when they listen to this music. It’s not about showcasing or showing off. It’s about bringing our strongest self to the stage,” Sham said — adding that he’s extremely grateful for the experience.

Now, the 29-year-old competition winner is in Aspen to perform a recital at the Aspen Music Festival from 6-8 p.m., Aug. 7 at Harris Hall. 

The 2025 competition took place in Fort Worth, Texas, last June. The competition featured 28 pianists in six “grueling” rounds of performances. 

“I felt very happy that, throughout the six performances, I felt I grew between each one,” Sham said.

He felt like he’s been preparing for this competition from the moment he was born. 

He grew up in Hong Kong and began playing piano at age 3 of his own volition. He became interested in learning after listening to his mother teach lessons, and at age 6, his mother enrolled him in the Hong Kong Academy of Performing Arts, an audition-based program.

Told he was a prodigy, he decided to commit to becoming a professional pianist in his teens.

In his own practice, Sham said he loves every cell of music, which he values as important for being a compelling artist. He also advocates for persistence and open-mindedness..

“I am of the opinion there is a lot to learn from a lot of people,” he said. “As long as someone takes their craft seriously, there is something to learn there.”

Upon entering the Cliburn competition, he hoped he would find a flow.

“In the third round, which is the longest recital — the one-hour recital in the very middle of the program — I suddenly felt I was free. I could express everything within me, and I guess that was the turning point,” he said. “I could do my very best with no reservation.” 

He said that feeling was fueled by the immense goodwill from the audience, who deemed him their favorite with the “Audience Award.”

Sham’s goal is to build his career in a sustainable way through a progression of concerts. He strives for the opportunity to perform with the great symphonies of the world, like the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, The Cleveland Orchestra, and the Boston Symphony Orchestra.

Looking ahead, he shared, “This is where the hard work really begins.”