A group of people standing near Sydney opera house with Harbour bridge in the background.

The Sydney 2023 Preliminaries

6 - 10 July 2023

At Verbrugghen Hall | Classical Music

Over five glorious days of music making, the 32 competitors compete fiercely to win one of only 12 places to advance through to the Semi Finals Rounds.

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Frequently asked questions

When 32 become 12

During the Preliminary Rounds of one of the world’s greatest competitions for the piano, the Sydney International Piano Competition, will give audiences the opportunity to hear all 32 international and Australian competitors at their most exposed - two solo recitals of 20 and 30 minutes make up the Preliminary Rounds. Enjoy a wide and varied program over five days as each competitor puts their best foot forward in their creative repertoire choices including an own choice Australian composition. From 32, only 12 will advance to the Semi Finals Round.

After the final concert on Monday 10 July, and included in the ticket price, attend the announcement of the Semi Finalists and enjoy a special drink reception to both commiserate and celebrate.

Presented by The Sydney

A conductor giving instructions to the orchestra.
5 – 22 July 2023

Discover more events at The Sydney 2023

32 young pianists from around the world will travel to Sydney to battle it out to be crowned the Grand First Prize Winner and to reap the accolades and bathe in the global spotlight of the music world. Don’t miss a moment of this exhilarating competition with the world’s most talented young pianists.

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