Hamamatsu International Piano Competition 2027: Worldwide Entry, ¥4m First Prize

A major Japanese international piano competition

The 13th Hamamatsu International Piano Competition in Shizuoka, Japan, has published its rules for the November 2027 edition, welcoming pianists of any nationality born on or after January 1, 1997. The contest takes place in Hamamatsu from November 7 to 29, with live rounds from November 13 and finals on November 27–28. On October 30, 2026 applications are not yet open: the online entry window begins January 8, 2027. This is a professional-level piano performance contest, not a competition in composing piano pieces. Plan audition repertoire and international travel sufficiently far in advance.

Online application and four essential files

Use the competition's official website to create a My Page account and submit four required electronic items: an MP4 video performing the prescribed preliminary-selection repertoire; a recent front-facing colour portrait of the upper body, at least 300 dpi; a PDF passport or other official ID showing name, nationality and birth date; and PDF recommendations from two musicians, at least one of whom is a piano specialist. All applications are online only. Files can be corrected or updated during January 8–February 28, 2027; an incomplete file set is not considered for preselection. The application receipt email should arrive within a week, otherwise contact the secretariat.

2027 dates, ¥20,000 fee, awards and travel

Applications close February 28, 2027 at 24:00 Japan Standard Time; the fee is ¥20,000 payable in yen by credit card and is never refundable. First prize is ¥4 million, second ¥2.5 million and third ¥1.5 million, with other awards. The winner is additionally promised at least ten recitals or orchestral appearances in Japan and abroad by March 2029, paid ¥200,000 per event with the associated travel and accommodation covered. For selected contestants, the organiser specifies limited travel subsidies based on nationality and residence, plus lodging during the relevant competition rounds. Check detailed conditions instead of assuming all flights are funded.

Independent editorial translation of an external piano competition. Applications are not open until January 8, 2027. Check the official eligibility, repertoire video rules, fee, travel support and performance rights before applying.

Official application procedures: https://www.hipic.jp/en/prospectus/procedures/

Official prizes: https://www.hipic.jp/en/prospectus/prizes/

Official travel and lodging: https://www.hipic.jp/en/prospectus/participation/