World's best pianists compete in Cincinnati

Cincinnati welcomes 22 of the world’s greatest pianists to compete in the World Piano Competition (WPC) this week. The annual competition has featured top performers from across the globe for the past 58 years.

The WPC promotes and celebrates classical piano as an artistic form by providing exposure for artists and building new audiences, ranging from children to senior citizens. The WPC expanded this year to collaborate with the world-renowned Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra (CSO) and the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music (CCM).

After many months of rehearsing and practicing, WPC competitors traveled from seven different countries—including China, Poland, South Korea, Russia, Macedonia, Canada and the United States—to compete for more than $45,000 in prize money as well as a debut recital in New York. 

“Of course there is a competitive aspect, and people want to win,” says Awadagin Pratt, WPC’s artistic director. “But, for the audience, it’s a great thing to watch emerging young talent make a really strong connection to the audience.”

The competition will take place at Corbett Auditorium in CCM Village on UC’s campus. The preliminary rounds, which take place June 23 and 24, will determine the six semifinalists. During the semifinalist rounds, June 25 and 26, those six semifinalists will perform a 60-minute solo of their choosing. The semifinalists will then be cut down to three.

Those three will rehearse with the CSO in preparation for the final round, in which they will perform a full concerto under conductor William Eddins to compete for first, second and third prize. The 2014 WPC winner will be announced during an awards ceremony following the final performances.

“The judges are looking for the best pianist,” Pratt says. “We're hoping it's someone with a great connection to the composers they play and who is passionate about communicating that to the audience."

Do Good:

•    Purchase tickets by visiting the CSO website or calling the CSO box office at 513-381-3300.
•    Donate to the WPC.
•    For volunteer opportunities, contact Mary Jo Barnett.