West Chester University Hosts National Piano Competition for Emerging Young Artists
36th Annual Event Draws 59 Talented Pianists from Across the Eastern United States; Public Invited to Free Masterclass and Winners’ Recital
The West Chester University Wells School of Music proudly presents the 36th Annual Pre-Collegiate National Piano Competition, continuing a long-standing tradition of fostering excellence in young pianists from across the country. The annual national competition will take place on Saturday, May 16, 2026, with a public Masterclass and Winners’ Recital on Sunday, May 17, in the Ware Family Recital Hall at the Swope Music Building and Performing Arts Center, 817 S. High Street, West Chester. For more information visit: www.wcupa.edu/music/pianocompetition.aspx.
Directed by Dr. Igor Resnianski, the competition provides valuable performance opportunities for students ages 9–18 and encourages a high standard of musical excellence among pre-collegiate pianists. This year’s competition will feature 59 participants representing Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Delaware, Virginia, and South Carolina.
The competition features three age divisions — ages 9–12, 13–15, and 16–18 — with up to five cash prizes awarded in each category. Contestants perform repertoire appropriate to their age and experience, showcasing technical skill, musicality, and interpretive artistry before a panel of distinguished judges.
A total of $5,900 in cash prizes will be awarded across all categories. The top prize in the senior division — a $2,000 first-place award for the 16–18 age category — is sponsored by Steinway & Sons.
A public Masterclass will take place on Sunday, May 17, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and will be led by Dr. Carl Cranmer, Professor of Piano in the Wells School of Music. The class will feature the first honorable mention recipients from each of the three age divisions and offers audience members a unique opportunity to observe high-level musical instruction and performance coaching.
The Winners’ Recital and Awards Presentation at 3 p.m. will feature performances by the first-, second-, and third-place winners in each age group.
Now in its 36th year, the Pre-Collegiate National Piano Competition remains one of the Wells School of Music’s signature educational outreach initiatives, helping young pianists refine their performance skills, gain valuable experience, and prepare for future musical study and careers.
Free Public Events – Sunday, May 17
11:00 a.m. – Masterclass
Ware Family Recital Hall
Swope Music Building and Performing Arts Center
Led by a Wells School of Music piano professor, featuring selected competition participants.
3:00 p.m. – Winners’ Recital and Awards Presentation
Ware Family Recital Hall
Swope Music Building and Performing Arts Center
A showcase of first-, second-, and third-place winners from each age