More than a competition. An investment in American pianists.

Cadence

Held every two years, the American Piano Awards nurture the best young American jazz and classical pianists. 

Prize

Winners receive career support valued at more than $200,000 over two years, making it the largest award in the world available to American pianists. 

 

45+ years supporting artists

The American Piano Awards alternate between classical and jazz and provide exceptional opportunities for outstanding American pianists ages 18–30 to advance their careers.

The five finalists for each Awards season are selected through a blind adjudication process, They receive a cash award are given the freedom to shape their own repertoire. Past laureates from both disciplines have gone on to successful international careers and critical acclaim.

Past Winners

Jazz and Classical

Competition Cadence

The American Piano Awards follow a distinctive, multi-stage process designed to support artists over time and offer a comprehensive view of each finalist’s musicianship.

The live, adjudicated competition unfolds over eight months (October–April), allowing finalists to present multiple dimensions of their artistry.

  • Nomination and Selection

    More than 300 music professionals nationwide nominate pianists. Nominated artists submit recordings—no application fee required. From anonymized submissions, a blind panel of experts selects five finalists based on technical ability and artistic voice.

    Finalists are introduced at kickoff events in New York City and Indianapolis.

  • Premiere Series

    From October through February, each finalist spends a week in Indianapolis for juried performances and community engagement. Jazz finalists perform in trio at The Jazz Kitchen; classical finalists perform solo and chamber works.

  • Finals Week

    In early spring, all five finalists return for a final week of performances. There are no elimination rounds.

    Jazz finalists perform solo and trio sets, appear with a big band, and collaborate with a guest vocalist. Classical finalists perform a new commission, chamber music with a world-renowned string quartet, and a concerto with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra.

    The winner is announced on Finals Night at Hilbert Circle Theatre.

  • The Award

    All finalists receive cash awards. The winner receives a $200,000 package, including career support, media tour, residency at the University of Indianapolis, recording opportunities, and national engagements.

Highlights from Finals Week

2025 Finals Photo Gallery
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Jazz 2027

Jazz season is in full swing!  Join us to hear performances from our five brilliant finalists.

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Classical 2029

The next American Piano Awards cycle for classical pianists will culminate in Finals Week in 2029, with the call for nominations opening in summer 2027.

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