11th KIFC | Messages from the Prizewinners
| 1st Prize | Riccardo CELLACCHI (Italy) |
| 1st Prize | Fabian Johannes EGGER (Germany) |
| 3rd Prize | Tohko FUJINO (Japan) |
| 3rd Prize | Brina UNUK (Slovenia) |
| 4th Prize | Anna KOMAROVA (Russia) |
| 5th Prize | Franziska Anne FUNDELIĆ (Croatia / Germany) |
1st Prize
Riccardo CELLACCHI
Latest Education
University of Music and Theatre Munich
Orchestra Experience
Bern Symphony Orchestra
Academy of Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra
Verbier Festival Junior Orchestra
Awards
2018 Kalabis and Růžičková Fund, Prize for Rendition of Composition by Viktor Kalabis
2017 International Flute Competition Kraków, 4th Prize
2016 International Competition “Audi Mozart!”, 3rd Prize
Participating in the 11th Kobe International Flute Competition was a truly wonderful experience. This competition had been a goal of mine since my student years, and I had been dreaming of taking part in it for a long time. After the last edition, which was held online, being there in person made everything feel even more special.
The days in Kobe were amazing — the organization was excellent, the staff were kind and helpful, and the atmosphere among all the participants was really unique. We spent more than two weeks together, sharing music and great moments. Winning was, of course, an unforgettable feeling, especially being able to share it with a friend. I’m deeply grateful for this whole experience, and I honestly can’t wait to come back to Japan soon for the next exciting things to come!
1st Prize
Fabian Johannes EGGER
Latest Education
University of Music and Theatre Munich
Orchestra Experience
Lions European Chamber Players
Bundesjugendorchester
Concertgebouw Orchestra Young
Awards
2024 VP Bank and the Liechtenstein Music Academy, VP Bank Opus Award
2024 Aeolus International Competition for Wind Instruments, 1st Prize, Special Prize and Audience Prize
2024 Eurovision Young Musicians, 3rd Prize
First of all, I would like to say that I felt very honored to have been part of this competition. It was a long-awaited dream! The competition itself, despite the great pressure at this almost incomparable level, was surprisingly pleasant and not stressful thanks to the incredible organization and the helpfulness of the participants and those responsible for this competition – apart from the stress on stage, of course ;).
For this reason alone, and not only because of the importance of this competition, it must be recommended to every flautist and every musician. I have rarely experienced such a great appreciation for the flute itself, not only among musicians but also among people both in Japan and internationally. Being able to get to know this wonderful culture in Japan is a great privilege and I really appreciate being able to share it with others.
3rd Prize
Tohko FUJINO
Latest Education
Toho Gakuen College Music Department
Awards
2022 Japan Woodwind Competition, 3rd Prize
2021 KARIYA International Music Competition, 2nd Prize
2018 Student Music Concours of Japan, 1st Prize
I am deeply honored to receive this award. It was a memorable experience to perform in the same hall where many flutists I have long admired have appeared, and to meet so many outstanding musicians through the competition. Although I felt nervous from the first round through to the prizewinners’ concert, there were many moments when I was able to truly enjoy performing. I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to everyone who supported and encouraged me.
3rd Prize
Brina UNUK
Latest Education
University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna
Orchestra Experience
Angelika Prokopp Summer Academy of the Vienna Philharmonic
Webern Symphony Orchestra
Slovenian Youth Orchestra
Awards
2024 TEMSIG-Slovenian Music Competition for Youth, 1st Prize
2024 International Music Competition “Città di Cervignano”, Duo Division: 1st Prize
2020 International Online Competition for Young Flutists, 1st Prize
I am deeply grateful to have experienced the 11th Kobe International Flute Competition, a truly inspiring event that challenged and shaped me as both a musician and a person. Preparing for this competition was a journey of growth — the program I performed will stay in my heart forever. Before arriving in Kobe, I often doubted myself and questioned whether I was good enough, but this experience gave me a powerful confirmation that I am on the right path. Performing at such a high level, surrounded by incredible musicians from around the world, opened many new doors and broadened my perspective on music and artistry.
My heartfelt thanks go to everyone who made this competition possible, and to the wonderful organizing team for their warmth and care toward all of
us contestants.
4th Prize
Anna KOMAROVA
Latest Education
St.Petersburg State Conservatory named after N.A.Rinmsky-Korsakov
Orchestra Experience
musicAeterna Orchestra
Mariinsky Theatre (Temporary)
Russian National Youth Symphony Orchestra
Awards
2024 International Flute Competition Maxence Larrieu, Special Prize
2024 ARD International Music Competition, Wind Quintet Division: 3rd Prize
2023 International Fürstenau Flute Competition, 1st Prize
It was my first time visiting Japan, but my second time participating in the Kobe International Flute Competition. Since the last edition was held online due to COVID-19, it meant all the more to me to perform live this time. I believe that music is something created anew in every moment on stage, and it is far more important to play for an audience than a camera. I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to everyone who came to listen. I am truly grateful for this experience, and it was an honor to share my music with you.
5th Prize
Franziska Anne FUNDELIĆ
Latest Education
Sibelius Academy
Orchestra Experience
Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra (Internship)
Finnish National Opera and Ballet (Internship)
European Spirit of Youth Orchestra
Awards
2023 University of Ljubljana, Prešeren Award
2023 International Flute Competition Flauta Aurea, 1st Prize
2021 TEMSIG-Slovenian Music Competition for Youth, 1st Prize
Participating in this competition has been a dream of mine since I was little, so it was an honour to play on that stage in front of such a jury. The atmosphere at the competition was very friendly, making it possible to make sincere connections and friendships also with other participants. Thanks to the great organisation I felt like I didn’t have to worry about anything else but my playing. I also want to mention the amazing piano accommpanists and orchestra, who were all incredible musicians and extremely kind people.
Performances felt more like playing concerts, as there was always audience besides the jury in the hall; I was very glad to see the locals’ enthusiasm! Their support and energy was very special to me. It felt like I was sharing personal, meaningful moments on stage not only with the jury but also with my pianists and the amazing audience.