Piano Competitions Information

Participating in piano competitions can be a powerful motivator for students of all levels. Competitions provide clear goals, encouraging consistent practice and discipline. They also help develop performance skills, teaching students how to manage stage presence and nerves. Receiving feedback from judges offers valuable insights for improvement, while exposure to other pianists fosters inspiration and a deeper appreciation for music. Whether a beginner or an amateur adult, competitions create a structured, rewarding path for growth, helping pianists refine their technique, musicianship, and confidence.


They offer excellent opportunities for both young and adult amateur pianists to gain performance experience and recognition. There are many piano competitions across the nation. Here are some entry-level piano competitions for kids and amateur adults,

For Amateur Adults
(Non-Professional, Entry-Level)

1. Feurich International Piano Competition (Austria & Online)

  • Ages: All (kids, teens, adults).

  • Entry Level: Beginner-friendly categories available.

  • Format: Live in Vienna or online submissions.

2. The Golden Classical Music Awards (Online & Carnegie Hall, USA)

  • Ages: All (including amateur adults).

  • Entry Level: Beginner-friendly.

  • Performance Opportunity: Winners play at Carnegie Hall.

3. Chicago International Music Competition (Amateur & Beginner Categories) (USA & Online)

  • Ages: All (includes amateur adults).

  • Entry Level: Several beginner-friendly divisions.

  • Format: In-person or online.

4. London Classical Music Competition (Online, International)

  • Ages: All (kids & amateur adults).

  • Entry Level: Open to various levels.

  • Format: Online submissions.

5. Music & Stars Awards (Online, International)

  • Ages: All ages (beginner-friendly).

  • Entry Level: Open to amateur adults and young learners.

  • Format: Online video submissions.

For Kids
(Beginner to Intermediate Levels)

1. Golden Key Music Festival (USA & Online)


2. American Protégé International Piano & Strings Competition
(USA & Online)

  • Ages: 5–18
  • Entry Level: Open to young pianists at various levels.
  • Performance Opportunity: Winners perform at Carnegie Hall.
  • Website: https://www.americanprotege.com/


3. Music Teachers National Association (MTNA) Piano Competitions
(USA)

  • Ages: Elementary to high school.
  • Entry Level: Available for beginners in the state-level rounds.
  • Format: Local → State → National levels.
  • Website: https://www.mtna.org/


4. Great Composers Competition (Online, International)

  • Ages: 5+ (different age groups).
  • Entry Level: Open to all levels.
  • Categories: Focuses on composers like Bach, Chopin, and Debussy.
  • Website: https://www.gccseries.online/


5. Rocky Mountain Piano Competition (USA & Online)

Share this article on

Tweet

Drop your email address below to get our newsletter.