The Honens International Piano Competition returns to Calgary this fall and here’s what to expect
One of the world’s most prestigious piano competitions is held only once every three years in Calgary, and it’s back for its 2025 iteration.
The Honens International Piano Competition will take place from Wednesday, October 15, to Friday, October 24, at various venues citywide, bringing together ten remarkable young pianists from eight countries to compete for a $100,000 prize and a three-year artistic development and career accelerator program.
We don’t need to tell you that $100,000 is a pretty hefty prize, but the overall package is one of the most comprehensive awards of its kind worldwide. That’s why the winner must go beyond the expectations of a virtuoso by being a communicator, collaborator, and cultural ambassador who can connect deeply with all kinds of audiences.
Luckily for Calgary, this means 10 wonderful days filled to the brim with some of the best classical music in the world as artists, audiences, and media from across the globe gather to experience the showdown.
The best in the ‘biz
The first five days will see each of the 10 semi-finalists present a solo chamber recital, as well as a collaboration with acclaimed Canadian cellist Rachel Mercer in which they will perform a newly commissioned work by Iranian-Canadian composer Iman Habibi.
During the finals on Oct. 23 and 24, three finalists will perform piano quintets with the Isidore String Quartet and concertos with the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra, and one will be awarded the title of 2025 Honens Gold Laureate.
More to love
In addition to the competition, there are plenty of opportunities for further immersion into the world of classical music.
On Oct. 18 and Oct. 19, internationally renowned pianists Anne-Marie McDermott and Janina Fialkowska will lead free public masterclasses, and the Honens Honours gala, which celebrates arts philanthropy in Calgary, will take place on Oct. 21.
You can also check out special performances throughout the week, including shows by the 2018 and 2022 Honens Prize Laureates, a family concert celebrating legendary Canadian jazz pianist Oscar Peterson, a late-night show with Sir Stephen Hough, and a masterclass program for Canadian pianists aged 14 to 24 on performance psychology, mindfulness, and being an artist.
A competition to remember
Honens not only puts Calgary on the music map but also inspires artistic education and excellence through shows and seminars for all ages.
Whether you’re a classical aficionado or are just interested in supporting the arts in Calgary, attending this festival is definitely a bucket list item.
Visit the Honens website to learn more and secure your tickets.
Honens International Piano Competition
When: Wednesday, Oct. 15, to Friday, Oct. 24
Where: Multiple venues across Calgary
Tickets: $10 to $112 — Available here
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