The Second Manchester International Concerto Competition For Young Pianists
August 15th -21st 2009
Two categories: 16 and Under, and 22 and Under (as of 1 August 2009)The semi finals will take place at Chetham’s School of Music on 17 and 18 August 2009
The finals, accompanied by Manchester Camerata, will take place at the Royal Northern College of Music on 20 and 21 August 2009, Conducted by Stephen Threlfall
The Jury will consist entirely of eminent international concert pianists under the chairmanship of Murray McLachlan (UK).
Selection process: Participants should submit a DVD recording with accompaniment (either with full orchestra or second piano) of a complete concerto from the above repertoire lists. They should include two references with the recording from musicians of standing, at least one of which must include confirmation that the recording is unedited and the playing of the participant.
A maximum of twelve pianists from each age category will be chosen to take part in the semi-finals, to be held in Whiteley Hall, Chetham’s School of Music. Each semi-finalist will be required to play their complete concerto from memory. A second piano will be used as accompaniment, and although official accompanists will be available, participants are welcome to bring their own accompanists with them if they wish to.
A maximum of four finalists will be selected in each age category for the finals of the competition. The 16 and under final will take place at the Royal Northern College of Music from 7pm on 20 August, and the 22 and under final will take place from 7pm on 21 August. Both finals will be accompanied by Manchester Camerata, conducted by Stephen Threlfall.
Semi-finalists in each category will be invited to take part in masterclasses with members of the jury on the afternoon of the finals (2-5pm on August 20 and 21).
Travel and accommodation: All twenty-four semi finalists will receive free en suite accommodation and subsistence for meals, etc, during their stay in Manchester. Selected overseas participants will be offered £100 towards the cost of their travel. Semi finalists in each category may arrive from midday on 15 August.