Paulina Dudzin of Wrentham was awarded First Prize at the Little Mozart’s Crescendo International Competition 2024. The eight-year-old performed at Carnegie Hall’s Weill Recital Hall during the winners’ concert in May, after securing second place at a musical competition held at Bryant University.

Dudzin with piano teacher Nana Grace of DoReMi Music Academy.

Dudzin takes lessons with Nana Grace at the Rhode Island DoReMi Music Academy in Smithfield, RI. Grace says her students’ recent trip to New York City for the prestigious international competition marked a significant highlight, with Dudzin one of seven of her students achieving top placements.

In a statement, Grace said, “This recognition not only highlights the outstanding musical abilities of our students, but also underscores the global reach and impact of the arts emanating from our community.”

To qualify for Carnegie Hall, students first applied online and then performed in person at Bryant University. Successful candidates advanced to the Carnegie Hall International Competition, where they earned cash prizes, opportunities for overseas performances, and other accolades. 

Thousands of artists apply each year, with only 25 students selected for the trip, seven of whom were from Grace’s studio.