Cliburn Young Pianists Competition 2027: Global Ages 13–17, Fully Funded Fellows
About Cliburn 2027
The Fourth Cliburn International Competition for Young Pianists will take place June 10–19, 2027 in Dallas, Texas, United States, together with a Piano Fellowship based at Southern Methodist University. The experience combines the competition with masterclasses, workshops, professional conversations and performance activities, while the six concerto finalists perform with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra conducted by Maurice Cohn. International applications are open now.
Eligibility and selection stages
Eligibility is nationality-neutral but tied to precise birthdays: pianists must have been born after June 19, 2009 and on or before June 7, 2014. Put plainly, the permitted birth dates run from June 20, 2009 through June 7, 2014 inclusive. Previous first-prize winners of this specific Cliburn Young Pianists competition may not reapply. The organizer will invite 38 young musicians as Piano Fellows. Of those, 24 enter the judged competition, 12 reach the semifinals and six the concerto final.
Screening videos and repertoire
Application screening videos must total 15–20 minutes, containing one virtuosic etude, one movement of a Classical sonata and one slow lyrical work. Film the performance within six months before submission and keep the pianist's face and hands visible throughout. Each piece must be played in a single continuous unedited performance; stopping between separate selections is permitted. Subsequent rounds have different prescribed work types, so review the full repertoire tables and planned repertoire carefully rather than treating the application recording as the entire competition programme.
Application fee, deadlines and fellowship support
Applications close November 17, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. CST (GMT-6). The required application fee is US$125 and nonrefundable, and late submissions are not accepted. For 38 selected Piano Fellows, the Cliburn pays one round-trip economy flight to Dallas, housing, meals and local transportation for the required June 7–20 residence. This fellowship support is not automatically available to all applicants. Overseas Fellows must secure the necessary U.S. visas themselves, although the organizer may assist with supporting documentation following acceptance.
Official 2027 competition rules and application
This article provides a summary. To avoid misunderstandings, please be sure to check the official page for full details.
Information verified: 2026-10-11
Paid listings
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