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ISM Youth Piano Competition 2026

30 May 2026 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
ISM Auditorium, 43 Av. Princesse Grace, 98000, Monaco Monaco
International School of Monaco

About

The inaugural ISM Youth Piano Competition will take place on Saturday 30th May 2026 in the ISM Auditorium.

The ISM Youth Piano Competition, organised by the ISM Performing Arts Department, is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of pianists by providing a world-class platform for young talents to showcase their artistry. More than just a musical event, the competition is a transformative experience designed to inspire excellence, foster a deep love for music, and create a vibrant community where students aged 4 to 18 can grow, connect, and achieve their full potential.

Rooted in Monaco’s rich cultural heritage, the competition reflects the principality’s values of diversity, creativity, and excellence. It offers young pianists opportunities to refine their skills, gain invaluable performance experience, and develop resilience, discipline, and confidence. Through rigorous evaluation by esteemed judges, participants are encouraged to push their artistic boundaries while celebrating their individuality and creativity.
 
The ISM Youth Piano Competition serves as a gathering place for students, educators, families, and music enthusiasts from diverse backgrounds. By fostering connections and encouraging collaboration, the event creates lasting relationships that support musical growth and personal development. The competition also promotes inclusivity by welcoming students of all nationalities and celebrating their unique artistic voices.

Committed to shaping the future luminaries of the classical music world, the competition invests in mentorship, recognition, and growth opportunities for all participants. Whether pursuing professional careers or playing as passionate amateurs, students will carry the impact of this experience throughout their lives.
 
Ultimately, the ISM Youth Piano Competition aims to enrich Monaco’s cultural landscape and inspire future generations of pianists and music lovers. 

The competition will be open to pianists in the Principality and the limitrophe.

Places are limited. The competition categories are as follows:
 

Section A - Educational Division

Young Pianist: Foundation Level

Up to 6 years

Max. 2 minutes

For the youngest performers beginning their musical journey. Focus on basic technique, rhythm, confidence and enjoyment of performance.

Approx. beginner–Grade 1 level.

Application fee: €30

 

Young Pianist: Elementary Level

Up to 10 years

Max. 4 minutes

For performers developing musical awareness and basic expressive skills, with growing technical control.

Approx. Grade 2–3 level.

Application fee: €40

 

Emerging Pianist Division

Up to 14 years

Max. 6 minutes

For performers beginning to demonstrate musical personality, stylistic awareness and stronger technical coordination.

Approx. Grade 4–5 level.

Application fee: €50

 

Developing Pianist Division

Up to 18 years

Max. 8 minutes

For committed young musicians showing expressive maturity, solid technique and artistic development.

Approx. Grade 6–8 level.

Application fee: €60

 

Section B - Artistic Division

Advanced Artist Division

Up to 15 years

Max. 9 minutes

For highly dedicated performers transitioning toward pre-professional study, with confident technique, stylistic understanding and stage presence.

Approx. post-Grade 8 / pre-diploma level.

Application fee: €70
 

Concert Artist Division

Up to 18 years

Max. 12 minutes

For outstanding young musicians approaching conservatory or professional level, demonstrating artistic maturity, refined interpretation and advanced technical command.

Application fee: €80

Calendar

30 May 2026 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Location

ISM Auditorium, 43 Av. Princesse Grace, 98000, Monaco Monaco

Contact

International School of Monaco