2025 Internationa Piano Competition

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Age Groups and Time Limitation

• Group A: Age 15-18 max. 15 minutes 
• Group B: Age 11-14 max. 12 minutes
• Group C: Age 8-10 max. 9 minutes
• Group D: Age 7 and under max. 5 minutes

Each participant will perform one or two piano works within time requirement. Original compositions and improvisations are not permitted. Repeats may be played at the performer’s discretion but not required.  Performers should wear concert dress and include appropriate concert etiquette. 

ALL applicants should use the original scores of their repertoire.

Video Submission

• Due date: 23:59PM PST Feb28, 2025
• The music recording must be clear and free of background noise. 
• The side of the applicant’s face must be visible in the frame. Both hands and the pedals must also be visible in the frame. 
• The submitted video may not be used for any purposes except for submission in the competition. 
• The video may not be edited. 
• Each piece should be recorded in a single continuous take.
• The video should be recorded by a single camera. 

All recordings will not be returned and will be the sole property of Franz Liszt International Piano Competition. Franz Liszt International Piano Competition reserves the right to post the winners and their videos to the Internet.

Applicants may submit their videos through YouTube or some other video sharing website. All videos must be uploaded online. An audio only file will not be accepted, and an application change request must be submitted, along with its respective form and fee. 

If applicants choose to share their videos by e-mail, the files must be sent to info@lisztinternational.com. 

Grading Criteria

• Musicality and artistry:

Students who score well will not simply play their selected pieces cleanly but will demonstrate an appropriate understanding of aspects of performance including artistic and stylistic interpretation. Judges will look for students who pay attention to details of musicality, such as phrasing, dynamics, touch, and shaping, and who can elevate their performance beyond merely playing the written notes to delivering a dynamic and engaging interpretation

• Technical mastery:

Students who score well will demonstrate that they ability to meet the technical requirements of their selected pieces. They should be able to comfortably navigate the technical challenges of the literature. Their performance should be free of major note or fingering errors. Students should utilize an appropriate tempo and when required, execute clean pedaling.

• Adherence to the score:

Students who score well will demonstrate their ability to meet the technical requirements of their selected pieces. Students should utilize an appropriate tempo and, when required, execute clean pedaling. ic markings, etc., as well as customs of the period in which their selected piece was written." Their performances should reflect the composer's instructions in the score, including (but not limited to) tempo, style, pedaling, dynamic markings, and the customs of the period in which the selected piece was written.

• Stage presence:

Students should demonstrate a high level of professionalism throughout their auditions. Students who score well will display both confidence and charisma, regardless of whether it is their first time participating in a competition, or they are more experienced. Students should remember that if they receive an award, they will be expected to perform in front of their peers and guests. This includes appropriate performance attire.

• Memory:

Students are expected to perform their selected pieces without referring to the score. 

Decisions of the adjudicator(s) are final.  

Application Fee

Application Fee is $150

Application Fees are not refundable.

Additional fee will be added to cover PayPal/Credit card service charge. By clicking on “Pay My Application” button you will be re-directed to PayPal or credit card payment page. 

Awards

The winners and their videos will be posted on the Franz Liszt International Piano Competition website. All winners will be announced for each age group and receive a mailed certificate. Cash award listed as below. 

• Grand Prize winner will receive a cash prize of $500
• Group A (Age 15-18): First Prize winner will receive a cash prize of $500. 
• Group B (Age 11-14):First Prize winner will receive a cash prize of $400
• Group C (Age 8-10): First Prize winner will receive a cash prize of $300
• Group D (Age 7 and under): First Prize winner will receive a cash prize of $200