At just 10 years old, young Ukrainian pianist Nora Kostenko won the “À vous de jouer” music competition this evening, organized by SNCF Gares & Connexions at Paris-Est train station.
She shares the first prize with a 12-year-old French boy, Yann-Aël.
A refugee in France since the beginning of the Russian invasion, Nora embodies the hope, strength, and grace of Ukrainian youth.
Her moving performance of a piece by composer Ihor Shamo, chosen for its emotional power and its resonance with Ukraine’s courage, deeply moved both the audience and the jury, which included Julie Gayet, André Manoukian, and Jean Cotro, winner of the same competition in 2015.
Originally from Kharkiv, Nora now lives in Vertou, near Nantes, with her family. She made a point of expressing her gratitude to France for the warm welcome and solidarity shown toward Ukrainians.
Bravo, Nora! And thank you for sharing with us such a beautiful expression of Ukrainian creativity. Your talent and light inspire far beyond the stage.
Crédits photo : @Mathieu Delmestre – SNCF Gares & Connexions
