Chinese Pianist Wins Chopin Prize in Poland

The jury announced its decision shortly after midnight Thursday after a two-week contest. Li, and the other five finalists had waited two days for the result to be announced following the international competition which drew young pianists from 25 nations.Li won the gold medal and first prize of USD 25,000. In silver medal position was Argentine Ingrid Fliter, 27, who wins USD 20,000.Third was Russian Alexander Kobrin, 20. Another Chinese pianist Chen Sa, 21, along with Italian Alberto Nose, 21, and Japan's Mika Sato, 27, were the other finalists. The Frederic Chopin competition is considered one of the most prestigious and exacting music prizes, celebrating the works of the 19th century Polish composer and pianist.Spain's Queen Sofia was to take part in the prize-giving ceremony and prize-winners' gala concert later Friday.