This summer, Loyola University Music and Communications Complex played host to some of the most talented pianists and composers in the world at the 20th Annual New Orleans International Piano Competition and Keyboard Festival.
This annual roundup from the Musical Arts Society of New Orleans showcased a dozen rising stars in the piano world from an applicant pool of 105 pianists, representing more than 20 countries worldwide. The various competitions and activities spanned nearly a week, from July 19-27, with many familiar faces including previous medalists in the competition Chetan Tierra and Dmitri Levkovich.
For many of the competitors, winning a medal at the event means more than just prizes and money; several medalists have earned the opportunity to perform masterpieces not only stateside but right here with the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra.
This year’s competitors showcased their work on the chopsticks by playing some of the classics by Chopin, Debussy, Ravel and Beethoven among many others. In addition to the competition and recitals, the celebration also featured master classes, lectures from renowned concert pianists and a jazz dinner.
Participants competed for a chance to play with the LPO, the Acadiana Symphony Orchestra, the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra and some will even get to perform at London’s Wigmore Hall. The event was also highlighted by its Steinway-only pianos used in the rotation.
Vakhtang Kodanashvili, Anne Bradburn, Auseklis Ozols, and Sharon Horton
Tom Melacon, Dimitri Levkovich, Edgar Chase III, and Steve Kinchen
