Henry Durbin, 11 years old, has been immersed in music from an early age, having listened to his brother’s piano lessons for a year before beginning his own studies at age five. In addition to piano, Henry enjoys soccer, basketball, and church activities. His favorite academic subject is math, which he appreciates for its challenge and problem‑solving. Henry’s musical development accelerated after participating in the Chopin Society of Texas’s Sonatina Competition in 2024, where hearing other talented young pianists inspired him to deepen his commitment to the instrument. He is the grandson of pianist, teacher, and composer Cynthia Papierniak, and had the special honor of performing one of her works at Carnegie Hall in January of 2025. For the 2026 competition, Henry selected one of her pieces, Sakura. The opportunity to prepare it under her guidance was a very unique and meaningful musical experience. Henry started piano lessons with Dr. Patrick Lahan in Catonsville, MD. His studies are advancing and blossoming under the tutelage of Natalia Redina of Baltimore Music School. He started lessons with Ms. Redina in the summer of 2024. He is thankful for the guidance she gave him in preparation for his Carnegie Hall performance and her ongoing support in his musical growth.