PLANNING PROGRAMS
I. Virtual Preliminary Round
1. Two solos, of choice, contrasting
    periods, duration: up to 30 minutes
2. Concerto, all movements

Please remember that the preliminary jury
will listen, not watch the video.

Preliminary, semifinal, and final
round programs must be by memory.
(The exception is the duo.) The same
concerto, and all of its movements, is
required for the video recording and
all performances.

**See below for Tips Preparing the Video.

Round II Recitals
(Solo & Duo)
Each pianist must perform one work
(or more) from the classical period.
The list of required solos can be
performed either in the solo or duo
recital, depending on the timing
of the recital. Each recital should
last 45 minutes that includes
speaking about music and staging.

No changes in the recitals after
April 1, 2026.

IIa. Solo Recital
1. The required solos, or solos of choice,
    may be entire works or movements.
2. FRÉDÉRIC CHOPIN, any nocturne.
3. North American work first
    performed or published after 1950.
4. Solo from a historically under-
    represented group. (May also
    serve as North American work.)
5. J. S. BACH, an optional composition.
    Pianists wishing to compete
    for Best Performance of a Work
    by BACH may select a Prelude and
    Fugue from the Well-Tempered
    Clavier, a Toccata, Chromatic 
    Fantasy and Fugue, movement(s)
    from the Italian Concerto, a Suite,
    or Partita.

Planning the solo recital
The Solo Recital can last up to 45-minutes.
When planning include:
1.  A couple of minutes speaking
    about why you chose your
    choice solo or solos.
2. Three or four minutes speaking
    about and playing excerpts from
    the North American work. 
3. Three minutes for staging.

IIb. Duo Recital
1. Solo(s) of choice by contestant.
2. Duo, all movements, with MSO musician.
The Duo Recital can last up to
45-minutes. The pianist introduces
the partner and speaks briefly about
the work. Please include staging
of five minutes in the recital’s timing.

III. Final Concerto Round
Three finalists perform concertos with
the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra/

**Tips for Video Performance of
      Concerto with Second Piano
1.  Performance of the concerto with a second
     piano is recommended, but not required.
2.  Videos of the concerto and solos must be
     recorded within one year of submission date.
3.  The soloist’s hands and face must be seen.
4.  The two pianos should be tuned together.
5.  The second piano lid should be raised, using
     the half stick. If the videographer finds that
     the second piano is overpowering, adjust
     placement of the microphone.
6. Produce quality sound, even if it means
    assistance by a recording expert.
    The preliminary jury will listen, not watch.
7.  Announce your pieces (but not your name).
8.  Perform in concert attire.
9.  One video can include all selections, or you can
      send one for the concerto and one for solos.
10. List the timings of the selections, sign your
      name, and review before sending.