Thank you for your interest in the 2020 Birmingham International Piano Competition.
The Trustees of the Birmingham International Piano Competition regret to announce that, in view of the state of emergency created by the coronavirus, the 2020 competition has been cancelled. The entry fees of those who have already applied will be refunded. Please revisit this website for information about the 2021 competition.
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​About the Competition
The Birmingham International Piano Competition remains committed to the art of the piano recital, and provides young pianists the chance to further their careers and perform in world class venues. More information on the history of the Competition can be found here.

The Prizes
The Competition awards three pianists – one winner and two runners-up – with a monetary prize as follows, as well as a recital engagement at Town Hall, Birmingham for the winner:

• First Prize: £3,000 plus a recital engagement at Town Hall, Birmingham
• Second Prize: £2,000
• Third Prize: £1,000
• Audience Prize: £500

The Jury


The Format
​The competition will be held in three rounds as follows:

• First Round: 
• Semi-Final Round: 
• Final Round:

Before submitting your application please ensure you have thoroughly read the information regarding Eligibility, Application Process, and Terms and Conditions below.

Eligibility
The competition is open to applicants of any nationality, but applicants must be:

• Resident in the UK (at the time of application)
• Aged 18 to 28 (inclusive) on Saturday 8 May 2021

Application Process

• Application is by application form only, which can be downloaded from the bottom of this page. The opening date of receipt of applications will be announced soon for 2021. From the field of applicants a maximum number of 25 entrants will be invited to perform in the First Round. Completed application forms, must reach the Competition Administrator on or before the deadline, and should be sent together with the necessary supporting documentation (see below) to: Competition Administrator via email to mail@bipcomp.co.uk. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.

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• The following supporting documents are required with the application form:
  • Copy of a birth certificate or passport confirming the date of birth of the candidate. (Citizenship Cards will not be accepted; photocopies should be sent as opposed to original documents).
  • CV including photograph and details of training, awards, prizes, recent concert appearances (if any), and links to any performances available online.
  • Two reference letters (typed in English) from musicians of standing, recommending the applicant for participation in the competition, including contact details (phone number and email address) of your referees.
  • Entry fee of £35 (non-refundable); this may be submitted by cheque or by online payment. Cheques in pounds sterling should be made payable to Birmingham International Piano Competition and be enclosed with the application form. Online payments should be paid using the following bank account details – account number: 68890068, sort code: 306261.

Terms & Conditions
For a full list of Terms and Conditions please see the attached Application Form.