Emerging pianists perform with MSO; enjoy interviews, performances, and awards ceremony.
The PianoArts Grand Finale is a celebration of young talent in the classical music world. Held at the Bradley Symphony Center, this event marks the culmination of the 2026 North American Competition. Three finalists will perform concertos with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, conducted by William Eddins, offering a glimpse into the future of classical music.
Arrive early to meet the competitors and enjoy performances by all eight pianists. The evening promises a rich program, including interviews and a chance to hear semifinalists' favorite works. After the main event, stay for the awards ceremony and toast the winners with a glass of champagne.
This is a unique opportunity to experience the artistry and passion of young musicians on the brink of their careers. Whether you're a classical music aficionado or new to the genre, the PianoArts Grand Finale offers an inspiring night of music and celebration.
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Arrive by 4:15 p.m. to catch the pre-concert activities. It's a unique chance to meet all eight pianists and enjoy additional performances before the main event.
Recognizing a New Generation of Classical Pianists The 2026 North American Competition reaches its exciting culmination on June 2! Three pianists will advance as finalists, taking the stage with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra and conductor William Eddins, to perform a concerto that will mark the beginnings of classical careers. To reach this level, PianoArts competitors will have performed an hour virtual recital and over two hours of live Milwaukee programs including solos from the Baroque to new music, duos with MSO musicians, and a concerto lecture-recital. Come early on June 2 to meet this extraordinary new generation of classical artists and hear all eight of them perform. 4:30 p.m. WPR’s Drivetime Classicals Host, Jason Heilman, introduces and interviews the finalists 5:00 p.m. Piano Promenades, five semifinalists perform their favorite works 6:30 p.m. Jason Heilman returns to the stage to speak about the concertos performed in the finale Following the 7:30 p.m. performances, you are invited to stay for a ceremony and a glass of champagne. The Awards Ceremony 9:30 p.m. (approximately) Our distinguished 2026 jury will award individual talents with a total of $35,000 in cash prizes. Among the awards, the first place winner will receive $20,000, a prize that will offset the cost of launching a career.
