Juror to the Chopin Competition, Yundi Li Goes Missing on Account of Wedding

In a most unusual circumstance, Yundi Li, the laureate of the lauded Chopin Competition back in 2000, went missing. Sources say Li is attending a wedding party of the model star bride, Angelababy. Whatever the reason, he abandoned his post and the excuse is unsatisfactory.

As one would imagine, the counsel on which he is a part of is less than pleased with his decision to attend a celebrity wedding. Apparently, Li flew from Warsaw to Shanghai in order to attend the ceremony.

Per Gramophone, the celebrated pianist had an unlikely excuse:

"So the once laureate of the Chopin Competition of 2000 went missing from his jury's desk on October 7th for three days and appeared in the following days at the luxurious wedding banquet at the Shanghai Exhibition hall of Huang Xiaoming with Angelababy, both are well known in the entertainment world in China. Yundi is a long-time friend of Mr Huang, the bridegroom. Yundi also offered himself to be one of the 12 star studded groomsmen."

In accordance with his disappearance, many news outlets all over the world have criticized his unprofessionalism. However, fans of the musician remain steadfast in their loyalty, speaking highly of actions and claiming his presence at the wedding was more so "generous."

Norman Lebrecht also noted that Shanghai weddings are long-lasting events, with celebrations lasting for days. It won't help that drinking and eating are a part of the days-long exhibition.

One can only hope that Yundi makes it back for the final round. While his actions are more or less condemnable by his own counsel, the pianist is certainly not lacking in legitimacy as an artist and judge of talent (regardless of his personal affairs).

So while we await his status, be sure to check him out below as a testament to his musicianship.