From June 13–19, 2026, the 5th International Grand Piano Competition for Young Pianists (Artistic Director: Denis Matsuev) will be held in Moscow. First held in 2016, the project is held every two years. This unconventional format, where all participants have the opportunity to perform with an orchestra at the Tchaikovsky Hall, has proven its worth: many competitors, having gained invaluable stage experience, go on to successful international careers. The Grand Piano Competition continues the traditions of the Russian piano school, helping to expand and strengthen creative connections and improve the quality of education in the piano departments of children's music schools and secondary special music schools.
Applications are open until April 6, and pianists aged 16 and under are invited to participate. The main prize is an acoustic grand piano; laureates and diploma winners, as well as their teachers, will receive cash prizes. The Grand Piano Competition's opening ceremony will take place on June 13 at the Tchaikovsky Hall. The first round auditions will take place in the Concert Hall of the Central Music School – Academy of Performing Arts, and the second round and final gala concert will take place in the Tchaikovsky Hall.