Third Adult Amateur Competition

November 1, 2008
Houston Community College

Schedule

The Third Adult Amateur Competition is scheduled for November 1, 2008. The application is available on this page. Deadline for submitting applications with accompanying proof of age and fees is Friday, October 3, 2008.

Overview

The competition is divided into two categories: Competitive and Non-Competitive. Awards will be presented in the Competitive category. Participants in both categories will receive written critiques from the judges.

Participants in both categories will have the opportunity to sign up for Master Classes on stage or privately with a judge of their choice.

These events are open to all adult amateur pianists, over the age of 27, who make their living from sources other than playing or teaching piano, do not hold any degree in piano performance or piano pedagogy, and study piano as a hobby.

All participants are expected to wear appropriate performance attire to ensure a proper atmosphere. Chopin Society of Houston reserves the right to record all performances during the event for use at its own discretion. By signing the application form the participant renounces all rights and fees.

Non-Competitive Category

Contestants in the non-competitive category may select any works by Chopin. Performance time is limited to 12 minutes. The works need not be performed from memory and may use original sheet music. Please note only original versions will be accepted; no transcriptions, no arrangements!

Competitive Category

Contestants in the competitive category are required to perform one of the following nocturnes:

  • B-flat minor, Op. 9, No. 1
  • F Major, Op. 15, No. 1
  • D-flat Major, Op. 27, No. 2
  • B Major, Op. 32, No. 1
  • F minor, Op. 55, No. 1

    Performance time is limited to 12 minutes (including the required Nocturne).

    All works must be performed by memory. No changes or substitutions will be accepted. Please note only original versions will be accepted; no transcriptions, no arrangements!

    If several smaller works are performed, they should be contrasting in either style or tempo. If a contestant wishes to perform one larger composition (such as a Ballade or Scherzo), which exceeds the time limit, he/she is allowed to play it along with the required nocturne.

    Awards will consist of Gold, Silver and Bronze medals, an award for the best nocturne, and the Jan Ekier Award for the best performance of the most difficult piece.

    Medalists will have the opportunity to play in the Winners Recital.