2026 Award adjudicators
The 2026 Award adjudicators bring a wealth of international concert experience, a commitment to developing emerging artists and extensive expertise in piano performance, education and adjudication.
The 2026 Award adjudicators are:
- Associate Professor Rae de Lisle MNZM (New Zealand)
- Amir Farid (Australia / USA)
- Timothy Steeves (Canada / USA)
During the Award week, adjudicators consider:
- the range of technical mastery displayed
- the performance style and characteristics
- understanding of the works’ national, historic and cultural context
- consistency of performance across the chosen repertoire
Award adjudicators select five performers to play in the semi final and three artists to compete in the grand final recital.
Following the grand final solo recitals, adjudicators confirm and announce the Award recipients across three main prizes and a range of special prizes.
Award Artistic Director Wendy Lorenz advises the Board on repertoire and adjudication procedures, but does not take part in selecting finalists or in adjudicating performances during the Award week.
Award adjudicators also provide finalists with personal feedback on their performances, along with valuable advice for future professional development.