Honens International Piano Competition

The Honens International Piano Competition is a classical piano competition held in Calgary, Canada that awards one of the world’s most prestigious prizes in piano.[1]

Esther Honens, a Canadian philanthropist, entrepreneur, and amateur pianist, gave a $5 million endowment to host an international piano competition in her hometown in 1991. She died from Parkinson’s five days after the inaugural competition.[2]

The Honens Competition takes place every three years.[3] The winner receives a substantial cash prize and an extensive three-year career development program.[4] The program includes artist management, debuts in some of the world’s greatest concert halls and with acclaimed orchestras,[5] production of professional recordings, and mentorship opportunities.[6]

The Competition doesn’t just look for an outstanding virtuoso. It looks for the ‘Complete Artist,’ [7] which allows competitors to perform self-programmed solo recitals as well as chamber and vocal collaborative, and concerto performances.[8] On top of that, pianists have interests outside the piano that guide their own artistic vision.[9]

At the Competition, competitors are encouraged to showcase themselves and their own artistry rather than sticking to competition strategy.[10] Upon being named Prize Laureate of the 2018 Honens International Piano Competition Nicolas Namoradze said Honens is “so much more than just winning a prize at a big competition. It jump-starts one’s career and is an opportunity unlike any other.” [11]

The Competition has been a member of the World Federation of International Music Competitions since 1998.[12]