Welcome to the 5th season of the Piano Star International Competition – applications open tomorrow, September 1st!✨
We’re back – and better than ever. Applications for the fifth season of Piano Star open tomorrow to pianists globally: compete online from anywhere or in person in NYC, Shenzhen, and Bangkok. Piano League will also be hosting our annual showcase for select winners at Carnegie Hall in summer 2025.
This year brings some changes to streamline and expand this fall’s competition: most notably, final round contestants will have the opportunity to perform in person in New York, China, and Thailand. We recognize that performing live is one of the most valuable experiences contestants can have during a competition and, as we grow, we’ll be paying extra attention to in-person availability.
Let the season commence!
As you start compiling your application, here are some helpful links…
- General rules & guidelines | A few things have changed this year, so be sure to check out what’s different before you apply
- Timeline | Be sure to familiarize yourself with the timeline and rounds of Piano Star so you don’t miss anything
- Locations | Piano Star is being held online and in optional in-person final rounds in NYC, China, and Thailand
- Prizes & scholarships | In addition to cash prizes in each age group, there are also opportunities to perform at Carnegie Hall and be awarded PL Teacher of the Year, PL Excellence of Teaching, Luzerne Music Center Summer Camp scholarships, or the Gulf Coast Symphony Solo Recital Award
If you’re still on the fence about applying, here’s what sets us apart:
- Renowned judges | Our judges, leading the way in piano pedagogy, are handpicked from the music industry and are exceptionally qualified professionals. Each panel brings an array and wealth of expertise and knowledge – and will provide verbal feedback for each contestant.
- Carnegie Hall Winners Concert | The summer concert series continues into its third year: select winners will be given the opportunity to perform at the renowned Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall in 2025.
- Over $25,000 in prizes & scholarships | Applicants have the opportunity to win cash prizes, music festival scholarships, and trophies that are equal to over $25,000 from Piano League, Luzerne Music Center, Skillman Music, and our other competition sponsors.
- Transparent scores | Our commitment to transparency and fairness in a competitive environment is, as always, one of our top priorities. All scores from the final and grand final rounds will be released to the public.
- Educational focus | Contestants receive instant verbal feedback from our judges following their performances. This ensures each pianist has valuable comments to learn and grow from – in addition to scores and prizes.
- Global accessibility | Our unique online and in-person format allows for global participation and expands accessibility so that virtually any pianist under 18 can apply with equal opportunity. With the competition’s grand final rounds online, contestants can compete from wherever they are in the world without paying travel fees.
The Piano Star International Competition is a global platform for young artists to gain exposure and experience in professional, competitive environments, receive valuable feedback from industry-leading judges, and compete for cash prizes, scholarships, titles, and more. Stay tuned for more updates and opportunities – and let the music begin!
Need more information or have any questions? Email us at pi*******@th************.com.
