The Chopin Foundation Prepares for the National Chopin Piano Competition, Promising $100,000—The Largest Cash Award in the United States— to its Winner 

The Chopin Foundation of the United States has officially set its top prize for its 10th National Chopin Piano Competition for $100,000—officially the largest cash award in the United States for a U.S. classical music competition.

The National Chopin Competition, which will occur in February of 2020 in Miami, happens once every five years. The 2020 competition won’t just mark another stunning competition in the United States, but the 10th anniversary of the competition (which began in 1975). 

But the winners and finalists from this competition won’t just receive the $100,000. They are also expedited directly to compete in the International Chopin Competition in Warsaw—a top, global piano event that’s long held a place in the dreams of pianists around the world. 

The increase in the first-prize amount showcases the need to provide appropriate compensation for the top artists in their fields, the same way top professionals in other industries are compensated for their devotion, their time, and their drive toward perfecting their passion and their craft. 

Blanka A. Rosenstiel, founder and president of the National Chopin Foundation, made it her mission to spearhead the increase in the first prize earnings based on sentiments of pride, talent, and admiration. 

“From an early age, these talented pianists are dedicated and disciplined. Their talent and hard work deserve this kind of reward and even more,” Mrs. Rosenstiel said. 

“The joy that their playing brings to this chaotic world is simply priceless. I hope that once the public experiences the beauty of Chopin’s music being performed so wonderfully, they too will cherish and support these fine pianists.”

The Foundation’s Executive Director, Barbara Muze, commented on the additional recognition the first-prize pianist will receive—a direct ticket to the International Chopin Competition in Warsaw.

 “The U.S. Competition has such a rich history with so many young American pianists getting much-needed international exposure after their success at our competition,” Muze said. 

“The gold medalist from the 2015 Competition, Eric Lu, is a perfect example. Eric was only 17 years old when he won the National Chopin Competition and he credits the Chopin Foundation for giving him the confidence and concert experience he needed to excel in the international arena. He went on to place 4th at the 2015 International Chopin Competition in Warsaw and just last summer won first prize at the prestigious Leeds Competition. We are so proud of him!”

As far as second prize and third price go, they both receive a hefty sum of money ($30,000 and $20,000, respectively), but only the second-place performer will compete in the International Chopin Competition. However, the third prize winner will receive an expenses-paid trip to Warsaw to compete in the International Chopin Competition Preliminary Round. 

The 10th National Chopin Competition is set to take place in Miami, February 22, through March 1, 2020.