Pianists from throughout world compete for $30,000 prize

Pianists from throughout world compete for $30,000 prize money
Record Number of Musicians: Kerikeri International Piano Competition
3-6 July 2014

TICKETS ON SALE NOW
@ The Centre, Kerikeri

A RECORD number of entries has been received for the 2014 Kerikeri International Piano Competition, with musicians set to flock to the Far North from throughout the world for four days from July 3.

Entries have come from Australia, USA, China, Indonesia, Republic of Korea, Italy, Russia, Japan, Canada, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Latvia, Malaysia, Singapore and New Zealand to compete in this outstanding event and to vie for some $30,000 in prize money.

The musicians now face an intense period of preparation, both mental and physical to reach the required standard. This is not for the faint hearted! All music must be performed from memory, a feat in itself. The selection of repertoire must include a major classical sonata, a 35 minute recital and, for the four finalists, a further 50-60 minute recital.

“The standard of the 54 entries to this year’s competition is exceptional and the level of technical and musical ability is, at times, quite breathtaking,” says Event Organiser, John Jackets.

“As a result, the assessors now have an extremely hard task selecting the 16 who will go forward to the competition itself.

“The atmosphere at the Competition is going to be ‘electric’ keeping both the audience and contestants on the edge of their seats”

Mr Jackets says it is very encouraging to see the event grow to become a favourite among competitors and music fans alike. Its reputation created by previous competitions and the warm welcome given to visitors by the town have added to its popularity.

The competition – the oldest and most prestigious of its kind in New Zealand – will, for the first time be judged by three adjudicators this year. They are:
• Natasha Vlassenko: Head of keyboard at Queensland Conservatorium, Griffith University, Brisbane
• Christopher Elton: Emeritus Professor, Royal Academy of Music, London
• Terence Dennis: William Evans Professor, University of Otago, Dunedin

Tickets are now on sale to the general public at the Turner Centre Box Office.
More details can be obtained at www.kipc.org.nz

ENDS

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