Louis Moreau
Louis Moreau was a French pianist who represented France at the Rome International Piano Competition, held November 14–20, 2032, at the Auditorium Parco della Musica Ennio Morricone. He placed second in the Piano Senior Division after performing Ravel’s ‘’Gaspard de la nuit’‘, received the Special Award for Technical Excellence for his performance of ‘’Scarbo’‘, and won the Overall Grand Prize across the competition’s instrumental divisions.
Rome International Piano Competition
Louis entered the competition as a familiar name among the European competitors, and some judges expected him to win the division. His technically flawless performance of ‘’Scarbo’’ made him one of Minjae Lee’s strongest competitors. He carried a touch of competitive arrogance, but his confidence did not prevent him from recognizing another pianist’s skill.
After hearing Minjae Lee rehearse, Louis approached him during a break and praised his playing. He crouched slightly in front of Minjae’s chair and made clear that he regarded the performance as skill rather than luck. Minh Tran helped translate as the two pianists discussed their musical interests, including a shared appreciation for Debussy. Louis did not talk down to Minjae or let the competition prevent a genuine exchange; he left with a small nod after their conversation. The encounter made him an unexpected ally during the competition.
At the final gala in Sala Santa Cecilia, Louis received First Place in the Overall Grand Prize, with Minjae placing second. During Minjae’s later post-Rome hospitalization, Louis organized an online fundraiser to help finance treatment and medical travel to the United States. He used the competition’s professional photograph of Minjae with Jacob Keller on the campaign page, which surpassed $100,000 within hours.
Speech and Communication
Louis spoke French and used careful, classroom-learned English when speaking with Minjae. He began the exchange in French, then slowed his speech and used gestures when English words did not come easily. His hand traced a small arpeggio as he asked what music Minjae liked; when Minh translated Minjae’s interest in Debussy, Louis grinned and tapped his own chest before naming ‘’Clair de Lune’‘.
Physical Characteristics
During the 2032 competition, Louis appeared slightly older than Minjae and wore his hair long enough to fall into his eyes.
Memorable Quotes
“Sorry. Uh… I am Louis. You… very… good. Not… lucky. Good.” (Spoken while introducing himself to Minjae in Rome.)
“Ah. Me too… Debussy. I… play… ‘Clair de Lune.’” (Spoken to Minjae in Rome while discussing their musical preferences.)