Anton Nel has Withdrawn as Chairman of the Jury Due to a Family Emergency
Bernadene Blaha has been Named Chairman of the Jury
& Micah Yui has been Added to the Jury Roster
PSIPC 2025 Junior Division Takes Place April 11-21, 2025 in Palm Springs, California
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — The Palm Springs International Piano Competition (PSIPC) has announced a change to the jury for its 2025 Junior Division Competition. Due to a family emergency, Anton Nel has regrettably withdrawn from his role as Chairman of the Jury. Bernadene Blaha has now been named Chairman of the Jury. Additionally, Micah Yui has been added to the Jury roster.
“We extend our heartfelt support to Mr. Nel and his family during this time,” said the organization in a statement. “We are pleased to share that current PSIPC 2025 jurist Bernadene Blaha will graciously step into the role of Chairman of the Jury. In addition, we welcome Micah Yui, a distinguished member of the Colburn School faculty, who will join the PSIPC 2025 Jury.”
“I’m deeply disappointed to step away from my role as Chairman of the Jury due to a family emergency,” said Anton Nel. “PSIPC holds great meaning for me, and I remain confident in the exceptional jury—now under the expert leadership of my dear colleague Bernadene Blaha—and in the bright future of this important competition. I send my very best wishes to all the young competitors; may this experience inspire and propel you toward your musical dreams.”
Artistic Director Robert Koenig added, “We are deeply grateful to Anton Nel for his leadership and continued support of PSIPC, and we send our warmest wishes to him and his family. I am thankful to my esteemed colleague Bernadene Blaha for stepping into the role of Chairman of the Jury and delighted to welcome Micah Yui to our distinguished panel. The dedication of our jury is central to PSIPC’s mission to uplift and inspire the next generation of great pianists.”
“My sincerest thoughts are with Anton Nel during this difficult time,” said Bernadene Blaha. “It’s an honor to step into the role of Chairman of the Jury and support this meaningful competition. I look forward to welcoming Micah Yui to the jury and to hearing the remarkable young pianists who have gathered for PSIPC 2025.”
The 2025 Junior Division Competition will take place April 11–21 in Palm Springs, California. Twenty young pianists representing seven countries will compete in multiple live rounds for over $30,000 in prizes, a professional recording, and significant performance opportunities. All rounds are open to the public and registration and tickets are available at psipc.org.
