DISCOVER PIANOARTS
^{Celebrating 26 Seasons of Classical Piano}

North American Competition & Festival
with Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra
For pianists, ages 17-22, living or studying full time
in North America

Take your artistry to the next level in performances with MSO musicians • Share your passion for classical music with the diverse community • Win prizes totaling over $34,000 and
future concert engagements • Build lifelong relationships with fellow PianoArtists  

Important Dates
Application:
September 15, 2025 until January 26, 2026

Video Submission for the Preliminary Round:
September 15, 2025 until February 9, 2026

Virtual Preliminary Round:
Early March
The jury selects up to eight semifinalists to perform live in Milwaukee

Live Semifinal Round of Solo and Duo Recitals:
May 26 through June 1, 2026 (to be confirmed)

Live and Streamed Concerto Final Round followed by Awards Ceremony:
June 2, 2026 (to be confirmed)

Programs and Rehearsals
Programs are created using selections from  Repertory and Recital Rounds. Semifinalists are required to perform and speak about their music. Prior to performing, PianoArtists (semifinalists) are matched with rehearsal partners who are specialists in acoustics, speaking about music, and staging.

Each PianoArtist has two rehearsals with an MSO violinist or cellist to prepare for the  duo recital. All have sessions with the conductor and MSO chamber ensemble to rehearse concertos prior to the finalists rehearsing with the full orchestra for the final round.

Professional Development
During the Festival, that runs concurrently with the competition, PianoArtists have sessions with the conductor, an MSO chamber ensemble presenting a concerto seminar, and professionals specializing in careers for pianists. (Click here for a sample schedule.)

For information on eligibility, judging policies, requirements, and fees, please visit Rules and Regulations