The World Piano Teachers Association (WPTA) Canada is thrilled to announce the launch of its inaugural International Pianist-Composer Competition, an online event inviting pianist-composers worldwide to showcase their original works. Open to participants aged 15 and above with no upper age limit or nationality restrictions, this competition celebrates the storied tradition of pianist-composers and promotes emerging talent with a modest entry fee of $15 per submission.
As a proud member of the prestigious Alink-Argerich Foundation, WPTA Canada is committed to promoting musicians on a global stage. Whether you’re submitting your first composition or your 100th, this competition welcomes all pianist-composers to contribute to the vibrant legacy of artists like Glenn Gould, Oscar Peterson, Angela Hewitt, and Marc-André Hamelin.
Introducing the True North Award
This year, WPTA Canada is excited to introduce the True North Award ($200), a special category for compositions inspired by Canadian themes, including:
- Canadian locations (natural or manmade)
- Canadian poetry, art, or music
- Canadian musicians
- Canadian history
- This award may be conferred to any eligible entry, regardless of placement in the main competition.
Submission Requirements
- Original solo piano compositions (3-12 minutes), submitted as a PDF score (typeset using Dorico, Sibelius, Finale, or MuseScore).
- Unedited, single-frame video performance by the composer, using the best available sound-capturing technology.
- Compositions may draw from any musical period or style, with extended techniques welcomed.
Prizes
- First Place: $500
- Second Place: $250
- Third Place: $175
- True North Award: $200
- Additional Awards: Winners may receive a studio recording of their winning piece and a composition lesson/consultation with a jury member.