Hamamatsu International Piano Competition

The event is a triennial music competition held in Hamamatsu, Japan. The city was chosen as the host because it is globally recognized for its massive piano manufacturing industry, serving as the home base for companies like Yamaha and Kawai.

The competition was founded in 1991 to celebrate the rich musical and manufacturing heritage of the city. It has since grown into a major triennial event that attracts elite international pianists.

Open to international pianists, the competition features multiple elimination rounds that require a deep knowledge of solo piano literature. The final round traditionally requires the remaining contestants to perform a large-scale piano concerto with a professional symphony orchestra.

Winners receive substantial cash prizes, but uniquely, they are often awarded a custom-engraved grand piano built in the Hamamatsu region. The competition also provides valuable concert tours across Japan to help launch the laureates' careers.