On June 8th, 2025, Rachel Ma won 1st Place in Group 9B at the Massachusetts Music Teachers Association (MMTA) Bay State Piano Contest, held at the Granoff Music Center at Tufts University. She performed Sonata in C Major, Movements I (Allegro) and II (Andante) by J. Haydn, as well as Variations in A Minor, Op. 40 No. 2 by D. Kabalevsky. Her performance was praised for its technical precision and expressive musicality. Rachel has been studying with Dr. Ana Popa for the past three years and is incredibly grateful for her teacher’s expert guidance and tireless dedication. This achievement marks a significant milestone in Rachel’s musical journey and reflects her hard work, discipline, and passion for piano.

The Bay State Piano Contest is a prestigious annual event that showcases young pianists from across Massachusetts. More information about the competition can be found on the MMTA website at www.mmta.net/bay-state-piano-contest.