Piano Arts Competition
Piano Arts Competition – 2026
Saturday, April 4, 2026
The UTC Piano Arts Competition is an annual event that provides performance and competition opportunities for middle school and high school pianists in Tennessee and surrounding states.
The 2026 competition will be held in person in Cadek Recital Hall at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. Students will perform for a panel of UTC faculty and receive valuable feedback, awards, and recognition.
Eligibility
Students must fall into one of the following categories:
- Middle School Division: Grades 6–8
- High School Division: Grades 9–12
Note: First prize winners from the previous year may not compete again in the same category.
Repertoire Requirements
Participants must:
- Perform at least two pieces from different style periods:
- Baroque
- Classical
- Romantic
- Impressionist
- Modern/Contemporary
- Perform from memory (except for avant-garde works written after 1950)
The following are not permitted:
- Prepared piano works
- Popular music selections
Maximum Performance Time:
- Middle School: 15 minutes
- High School: 20 minutes
Awards
Awards will be presented in each division. The judging panel reserves the right to withhold awards if requirements are not met.
Middle School Division (Grades 6–8)
- 1st Place: $75
- 2nd Place: $50
- 3rd Place: $25
High School Division (Grades 9–12)
- 1st Place: $100
- 2nd Place: $75
- 3rd Place: $50
Admission Audition
Graduating seniors may use this competition as an entrance audition for the UTC Department of Music.
Scholarships
Graduating seniors who plan to attend UTC may be considered for scholarship opportunities, including the Arthur Rivituso Memorial Scholarship (up to $2,000 per year).
Entry Fee
- Middle School Division: $23
- High School Division: $28
Payments will be completed online through the application system (no checks required).
Judges
The competition will be judged by the UTC Department of Music faculty.
If a judge has taught or has a personal connection with a participant, they will recuse themselves from evaluating that student.
Application and Entry Process
Applications are due by:
Sunday, March 29, 2026, at 11:59 PM
#1 - Download and fill out
Please fill out this downloadable application form in addition to your ticket purchase, and e-mail your completed form to [email protected]
Questions
Contact Dr. Danny Milan.