Who is Australia’s next emerging classical pianist?
Recognising the pursuit of professional excellence, technical brilliance and extraordinary flair, the Award is open to Australian and Australian-based pianists aged 21 to 35 years. It’s a stepping stone to international piano competitions and a solo music career.
Every two years, adjudicators review and assess applications to select a shortlist of finalists who will strive to win over $70k in prize money as they perform in a week of solo recitals at Riverlinks Eastbank in Shepparton.
Prior to selecting and announcing the Award finalists, the adjudicators review and assess a range of audition recordings submitted by applicants from across Australia. During their week in Shepparton, each Award finalist will present two 45-minute solo recitals .
Throughout the Award process, adjudicators consider the range of technical mastery displayed as well as performance styles and characteristics, the knowledge and understanding of the national, historic and cultural context of the works presented and how performance consistency is maintained across the chosen repertoire.
Award adjudicators will select five performers to play in the semi final and then three artists will compete in the grand final.
Following the grand final solo recitals, adjudicators will confirm and announce the Award recipients across a range of special prizes.
Award adjudicators also provide the finalists with a detailed personal appraisal and constructive criticism of their presentations, as well as valuable advice for future professional development.
Application deadlines for the 2024 Award
22 March 2024 – Applications close
10 May 2024 – Applicants notified
Schedule for 2024 Award
31 May 2024 – Award finalists to submit biographies and headshot images
28 June 2024 – Award finalists to submit Repertoire Submission Form
5 – 6 October 2024 – Award finalists arrive in Shepparton
6 October 2024 – Welcome reception for Award finalists
7 – 10 October 2024 – Solo recitals
11 October 2024 – Semi final
12 October 2024 – Grand final and prize presentation