2027 Spotlight International Piano Competition | Procedure and Timeline
Application Portal Opens: October 15, 2026
Application Deadline: December 10, 2026
Only the first 150 complete applications will be accepted. Early submission is strongly encouraged.
December 12, 2026 – January 3, 2027: Preliminary Round Screening Period
Participant must submit the following application by 11:59 PM CT on December 10, 2026:
1. Electronic registration form
2. Submit the recording in accordance to the Preliminary Round Repertoire Requirements
3. Non-refundable application fee: $130 USD
The Screening Jury will evaluate performances based on artistry, style, and technical proficiency.
Qualifying contestants will be invited to advance to the Semi-Final Round by January 4, 2027.
January 4 – 12, 2027: Semi-Final Round Submission Period
All Semi-Finalists must complete the Semi-Final Submission by 11:59 PM (CT) on January 12, 2027:
1. One additional new solo piano piece of contrasting style in accordance to the Semi-Final Round Repertoire Requirements
2. A high-resolution photo (square format)
3. Live Concert Availability & Travel Assistance Questionnaire
4. Advancing Fee payment of $120 USD (non-refundable)
Competition Judges will conduct an artistic evaluation based on all three submitted works (Preliminary pieces plus the new Semi-Final submission).
February 1, 2027: Online Competition Winners’ Announcement
Date: June 5, 2027
City: Houston, Texas
Venue: TBA
Time: All day (schedule to be announced)
Top winners from the 2027 Online Competition will be invited to perform in a public concert, presenting all or selected works submitted for the 2027 competition according to the following repertoire time guidelines:
Junior Division: up to 10 minutes
Senior Division: up to 15 minutes
Young Artist Division: up to 25 minutes
The jury will evaluate performances live and select the 2027 Spotlight Grand Prize winner ($5,000 USD).
The audience will cast votes during the concert for the Audience Choice Award ($1,000 USD).
There are no additional fees for performers, and professional video and photography will be provided free of charge for this event.
