Mauro Paolo Monopoli Piano Competition 2027: Free Global Entry, €16,500 Awards
The 30th International Piano Competition Premio Mauro Paolo Monopoli is inviting applications from pianists around the world for its live rounds from 3 to 9 May 2027 at Teatro Comunale Curci in Barletta, Italy. Crucially, the organiser explicitly waives ALL application and competition fees for this edition. Applications must be submitted by 28 February 2027, with an initial performance video. Eligible contestants are pianists of any nationality born after 1 January 1995 and no later than 1 January 2011, as stated in the competition's age rule.
How to apply and qualify
Apply through the organiser's own forms by 28 February 2027.
No registration or participation fee for the 2027 competition.
Preselection video: 15–20 minutes of free-choice piano works.
The recording must have been made on or after 1 January 2025.
Share an accessible YouTube or Vimeo link without a viewer password.
At most 30 performers will enter the live competition; the organiser aims to announce selected pianists by 15 March.
Pianists with a first, second or third prize from a WFIMC-recognised piano competition may qualify for an exemption from video screening under the current rules.
Live competition and orchestral final
The competition takes place at the historic Teatro Curci from 3–9 May 2027. The three finalists are scheduled to perform concertos with Orchestra Sinfonica Territoriale Suoni del Sud on 9 May, conducted by Benedetto Montebello. The first video is a qualification stage only; it is not a promise of a final round or a guaranteed appearance with an orchestra. Applicants should obtain the exact 2027 repertoire regulations, memorisation and performance-duration requirements from the official website before recording.
Prizes: distinguish actual money from future concerts
First prize: €3,000 in cash, together with a stated concert project and online CD release.
Second prize: €2,000; third prize: €1,000.
Audience special prize: €500.
The organiser advertises a total awards-and-opportunities package valued at €16,500.
Its five-concert performance project is described as worth €10,000. This is not an automatic additional €10,000 cash prize payable for winning; concert arrangements have their own contractual terms.
Budget and travel obligations
Applications are free, but international travel, accommodation and meals are not stated to be funded for all entrants. Hotel dei Cavalieri offers discounted conditions for competition participants, not a universal free lodging package. Applicants are advised to verify local rehearsal facilities, their assigned live dates, visa and travel arrangements and documentation of musical works in advance. Candidates should use the organiser's own application system rather than pay outside brokers.
Organiser credibility and prize history
The competition is organised by Cultura e Musica Giuseppe Curci ETS in collaboration with the local government and Italian cultural organisations. It commemorates the late pianist Mauro Paolo Monopoli and is a member of the World Federation of International Music Competitions. The association maintains an archive of past winners and judges and gives concrete venue, orchestra and schedule information. These first-party documents offer a way to verify a legitimate opportunity.
Official sources
English application and event overview: https://www.culturaemusica.it/public/wordpress/?lang=en&page_id=47
English 2027 rules and audition requirements: https://www.culturaemusica.it/public/wordpress/?lang=en&page_id=115
Source check 24 October 2026. Application deadline 28 February 2027; free; Barletta event 3–9 May.