The Carmel Klavier International Piano Competition 2026 celebrates its 12th year, continuing to stand as a beacon for young pianists aged 5 to 19. Known for its prestigious reputation, this competition provides an exceptional opportunity for young talents to perform at a world-class facility, with their artistry evaluated by a panel of renowned international judges. Beyond the performance experience, participants benefit from lessons with distinguished pedagogues, enhancing their musical growth and education. The competition also offers significant scholarships and awards, making it an important milestone for aspiring classical pianists. As it attracts participants from around the globe, the 2026 edition promises to further solidify the event’s place as a critical stepping stone in the careers of tomorrow’s leading musicians.

REGISTRATION DATES AND PROCESS:

Online registration opens on Monday, February 10, 2026
Preliminary application deadline: Monday, March 30, 2026
Late Preliminary application deadline: Monday, April 13, 2026 
(with an additional $50 fee)

FEES:

Preliminary Round:
$80 for Solo, Modern & Beyond, and Concerto categories. 
$50 per contestant for Duet and Ensemble categories.
Late fee for preliminary round (all categories): $50
Live Semi-final and Final round (Semi-Final is only for SOLO): 
$140 for Solo, Modern & Beyond, and Concerto categories.  
$80 per contestant for Duet and Ensemble categories

CONTESTANT ELIGIBILITY:

Competitors must be at least 4 years old and no older than 19 years old on June 1, 2026, and must be pre-college students.
The competition is open to young pianists of any nationality or ethnic origin.

CATEGORIES: 

Contestants may apply in one or more of the following categories (use of the same repertoire in more than one category is not allowed). 
Solo category consists of three rounds, and all other categories consist of two rounds.

Solo 
Duet (one piano 4 hands)
Ensemble (4 hands-2 pianos, 6 hands-1 piano or 2 pianos, 8 hands-2 pianos)
 Concerto
Modern & Beyond (formerly known as Contemporary Composers) 

LEVELS:

The competitor’s age as of June 1, 2025, determines their level in the Carmel Klavier Competition.
We reserve the right to split or merge levels depending on the number of contestants.  

Elementary A:    (ages up to 7)
Elementary B:     (ages up to 9)
Intermediate A: (ages up to 11)
Intermediate B:  (ages up to 13)
Advanced A:   (ages up to 15)
Advanced B:   (ages up to 19)

Contestants are responsible for adhering to all rules. Failure to do so will result in disqualification from the competition. However, feedback from judges on their performance will still be provided.

click here for pdf of rules & regulations

Carmel Klavier Asia
Chengdu, China
Founded in 2019
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Carmel Klavier Latinoamérica
Bogotá, Colombia
Founded in 2020
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