There are many valuable reasons to take part in competitions and festivals. These events offer a clear goal to work toward and create an environment where we can measure our progress and recognize the results of our dedication. Observing high-level performances by peers can be both motivating and inspiring, often pushing us to aim even higher. Fortunately, a wide variety of these opportunities are available throughout the year.
Why Local Competitions Matter
Local competitions serve as valuable practice opportunities to improve skills, rather than merely collecting medals. Some competitions may lack professional vision or integrity, as they are often launched for personal or business benefits. By focusing on well-structured, credible events, we ensure meaningful growth and recognition for both of them.
When selecting a competition, it’s essential to assess its quality and purpose. A good local competition is defined by:
The opportunity to receive hands-on feedback or a brief lesson from the adjudicator.
The reputation and credentials of the adjudicator.
High standards for award distribution, recognizing only a limited number of top performers.
The competition’s history and credibility.
Policies ensuring that organizers do not allow their immediate students to compete.
The value and opportunities associated with the awards (e.g., cash prizes or significant recognition).
The dedication and extra effort that the competition requires from teachers to participate and support their students.
Not Every “International Competition” Is Created Equal
At the national and international levels, these criteria still apply—with the exception that participants do not receive hands-on feedback or a brief lesson from the adjudicator. We have organized competitions into tiers based on their history, artistic standards, and reputation. Truly reputable competitions are often supported by globally recognized affiliations, such as membership in the World Federation of International Music Competitions or inclusion in the Alink–Argerich Foundation.
It’s important to understand that any organization can create a competition and label it “international,” regardless of its actual credibility or impact. The title alone doesn’t guarantee quality, fairness, or professional value. That’s why careful research into a competition’s background, affiliations, jury, and structure is essential before participating.
We have also excluded online-based competitions and those that distribute an unusually large number of awards, as these often prioritize participation over artistic merit. A professional name or polished website may be appealing, but lasting value comes from a competition’s standards, integrity, and track record.
Hands-on feedback or lesson opportunity with the adjudicator.
Yes
The reputation and credentials of the adjudicator.
High
MAX EXAMPLE: In the 2024 Performing Arts Festival of the Eastside, the Piano Solo for Grades 7-8, Class PS.7-8.C had the maximum number of winners, with a total of 7 winners, comprising: 1 First Place 1 Second Place 5 Honorable Mentions
Maintains high standards through limited, carefully controlled award distribution.
Yes
Degree of organizer intervention and board-affiliated participation influencing authenticity.
Minimal
Requires additional teacher commitment and support.
Hands-on feedback or lesson opportunity with the adjudicator.
The reputation and credentials of the adjudicator.
MAX EXAMPLE: In the 2024 Washington State MTNA Performance Competitions, the Senior Piano division had the maximum number of winners, with a total of 7 winners, comprising: 1 Winner 1 Alternate 5 Honorable Mentions
Maintains high standards through limited, carefully controlled award distribution.
Yes
Degree of organizer intervention and board-affiliated participation influencing authenticity.
Minimal
Requires additional teacher commitment and support.
Hands-on feedback or lesson opportunity with the adjudicator.
No
The reputation and credentials of the adjudicator.
Moderate
Maintains high standards through limited, carefully controlled award distribution.
No
MAX EXAMPLE: In the 2024 Russian Chamber Music Foundation competition, the Piano Division for age 8 had a total of 19 winners, comprising: 3 Gold Medalists 4 Silver Medalists 2 Bronze Medalists 10 Honorable Mentions
Degree of organizer intervention and board-affiliated participation influencing authenticity.
Excessive
Requires additional teacher commitment and support.
Hands-on feedback or lesson opportunity with the adjudicator.
No
The reputation and credentials of the adjudicator.
Moderate
Maintains high standards through limited, carefully controlled award distribution.
No
MAX EXAMPLE: In the 2025 Chopin Northwest Festival, the 10-Year-Old Division had a total of 16 winners, comprising: Gold Medals: 3 recipients Silver Medals: 5 recipients Bronze Medals: 6 recipients Grand Prix Gold Winners: 2 recipients
Degree of organizer intervention and board-affiliated participation influencing authenticity.
Excessive
Requires additional teacher commitment and support.
Hands-on feedback or lesson opportunity with the adjudicator.
No
The reputation and credentials of the adjudicator.
Moderate
Maintains high standards through limited, carefully controlled award distribution.
No
MAX EXAMPLE: In the 2024 Bach Festival International, the AGE 9 AND UNDER LITTLE PRELUDES class had the maximum number of winners, with a total of 30 winners, comprising: 6 Gold Medalists 9 Silver Medalists 9 Bronze Medalists 6 Honorable Mentions
Degree of organizer intervention and board-affiliated participation influencing authenticity.
Moderate
Requires additional teacher commitment and support.
