Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions applicants ask most
Can’t Find What You’re Looking For?
The questions below cover the things applicants most often ask us — about eligibility, recordings, repertoire, costs and what happens after you apply. If you can’t find what you’re looking for here, our Artistic Administrator, Eliza Folkert ([email protected]), is happy to help:
Email ElizaEligibility and Getting Started
Who is eligible to apply?
The Competition is open to pianists of all nationalities born on or between 19 September 1991 and 30 March 2007 (inclusive). Full eligibility requirements can be found in the Competition Regulations.
Can I submit my application before my recording is ready?
No. Applications can only be submitted once all required materials have been uploaded, including recordings, repertoire information and supporting documents.
What if I discover a mistake after submitting my application?
If you discover an error in your application after submission, please contact the Artistic Administrator as soon as possible. The Competition will endeavour to assist where possible, but cannot guarantee that amendments can be made after submission or after the relevant repertoire deadlines.
Can I withdraw my application after submission?
Yes. Please contact the Artistic Administrator: [email protected]
Your Recording
What file formats can I upload?
The Competition accepts the following file formats:
Audio recordings
.wav
.aiff
.mp3
Video recordings (verification videos only)
.mp4
Supporting documents
.pdf
Images
.jpg
.jpeg
.png
What happens if my recording exceeds the maximum duration?
Pre-Selection recordings must be between 20 and 25 minutes in duration.
The Jury will not assess any recording material beyond the published maximum duration. Applicants are therefore strongly advised to ensure that the total duration of their submitted recording falls within the permitted time limit.
The Competition reserves the right to reject applications that do not comply with the published recording requirements.
How are recordings assessed?
The Pre-Selection process is conducted anonymously. The panel assesses recordings and submitted repertoire information without access to applicants’ personal details.
Repertoire
Can I change my repertoire after submitting my application?
Yes. Repertoire may be amended within the periods specified in the Artistic Guidance. Following the published deadlines, changes may only be made with the Competition’s written approval.
May I perform from the score?
All repertoire should normally be performed from memory. Competitors may, at their discretion, perform 20th- and 21st-century works with the score.
Can I repeat works in different rounds?
One work previously performed in either the Pre-Selection Recording or International First Round may be repeated in the Second Round and Semi-Final. Further details can be found in the Artistic Guidance.
How should I choose my three concerto options?
Competitors should select three concertos that reflect their artistic interests and strengths. Following the Semi-Final, one concerto will be selected for each finalist, guided by which work will best serve the overall concert programme. Certain works may be declined where practical considerations make performance impractical within the Competition schedule.
References and assessment
What happens to my references?
Applicants are asked to provide details of two referees. References will not form part of the anonymous Pre-Selection process but may be consulted by the Competition where necessary.
Will I receive feedback if I am unsuccessful?
Due to the volume of applications received, individual feedback cannot be provided following Pre-Selection or the International First Round. Competitors participating in the Leeds Rounds may be offered feedback opportunities through Competitor+.
Costs, Travel and Practicalities
What costs am I responsible for?
Competitors are responsible for their own travel, accommodation and subsistence costs associated with the International First Round. For the Leeds Rounds, the Competition provides accommodation, meals and local transport and contributes towards reasonable travel costs to Leeds.
Is financial assistance available?
The Competition may offer bursaries or financial assistance to support participation where financial circumstances would otherwise prevent involvement. For details, please contact our Artistic Administrator, Eliza Folkert, at [email protected]
Do I need a visa?
Competitors are responsible for obtaining any visas or travel documentation required for participation. The Competition will provide supporting documentation where appropriate.
What language is used during the Competition?
The working language of the Competition is English. Competition staff will endeavour to support competitors wherever possible.
What practice facilities are available?
Competitors participating in the Leeds Rounds will have access to practice facilities at the University of Leeds and Leeds Conservatoire, including Steinway instruments.
If You’re Selected — And If You’re Not
What is Competitor+?
Competitor+ is the Leeds International Piano Competition’s artist development programme. It provides competitors and prize-winners with access to mentoring, coaching, professional development opportunities, industry introductions and career support. More about Competitor+ is set out in the Artistic Guidance.
May I attend the Competition if I am not selected?
Yes. The Leeds Rounds and Piano Trail Festival include a wide range of public performances, events and activities, and we warmly encourage applicants to remain connected with the Competition.
