14th Annual National Piano Festival 2026
🎹 May 22–23, 2026 | Rathgar Methodist Church, Dublin 6
The Piano Academy of Ireland is delighted to announce the 14th Annual National Piano Festival — our flagship competition celebrating young and adult pianists from across Ireland. The festival takes place on May 22–23, 2026 at Rathgar Methodist Church, Dublin 6, with the Festival Playoffs & 21st Anniversary Celebration Concert on June 6, 2026.
Open to all ages and abilities — from Under 6 through to Adult — the festival offers categories for solo, duet, etude, sonatina, repertoire, and concerto performers. All participants receive adjudicator feedback, certificates, and medals.
Key Dates
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Registration Opens | Now Open — Register here |
| Festival Dates | May 22–23, 2026 |
| Festival Playoffs & 21st Anniversary Concert | June 6, 2026 |
| Venue | Rathgar Methodist Church, Dublin 6 |
| Entry Deadline | 24th April 2026 |
| Late Entry Deadline | 29th April 2026 (€10 late fee per participant) |
Festival Categories
- Solo Under 6 years
- Solo Under 8 years
- Solo Under 10 years
- Solo Under 12 years
- Sonatina Under 12 years
- Solo Repertoire Under 12 years
- Solo Under 14 years
- Solo Under 16 years
- Solo Under 18 years
- Solo Etude Open (any age)
- Piano Concerto Open (any age)
- Solo Adult Bronze — Pre-Grade 5
- Solo Adult Silver — Post-Grade 5
- Duet Under 12 years
- Duet Under 16 years
Register for the 14th Annual Festival
Registration opens shortly — click below to secure your place!
Prizes & Awards
The festival awards over €1,000 in prize money, plus trophies, salvers, medals, and certificates. All participants receive adjudicator feedback.
- Sheila Gouldson Cup — Most Promising Young Pianist (U12)
- Clive Gouldson Award — Outstanding Adult Performer
- Virtuoso Cup — Highest Mark Across All Categories
- Emerald Award — Special Adjudicator’s Choice
- Bob Smyth Cup — Most Improved Returning Participant
Useful Information
Browse our full festival information pages:
📋 Rules & Regulations 🏆 Categories & Prizes 🌟 Past Prize Winners 👩⚖️ Past Adjudicators 🎹 Festival Home