Art Of Piano 2026

About the Open Call

Define your artistic vision, enhance performance confidence, and advance your career through: One-on one mentorship, collaboration and masterclasses with internationally renowned faculty: Michelle Cann, Timo Andres, Eric Le Sage, David Kaplan, Tema Blackstone and Joanna MacGregor. Faculty led workshops on the creative process, concert curation and career development. You will learn advanced techniques, personal expression, program creation and more, giving you tools to advance your career. Collaborative performance opportunities with faculty and fellow participants. Recordings of public performances for your archival use. 24-hour access to a studio in our Music Facilities. Outdoor group activities with faculty and peers, fostering connection and inspiration. Engage with other artistic disciplines at concerts and program events. Performance opportunities within the broader Banff community. Composer-pianists will be offered additional workshops with esteemed faculty, Timo Andres.

What is Offered

Accommodation (single bedroom on campus), meal plan ($68 credit per day), specialized studio space with 24-hour access, opportunities to showcase work-in-progress, group seminars and workshops with faculty, access to Paul D. Fleck Library and Archives, participant resources, free access to the Sally Borden Fitness and Recreation Centre (swimming pool, climbing gym, fitness suite), and box office discounts for ticketed performances. All arts participants receive a scholarship covering 100% of tuition costs. Additional scholarships are available for accommodation and meal plans, with Canadian Indigenous scholarships covering 100% of all fees.

Requirements

This program is open to early career classical pianists, and musicians who have recently graduated or are currently enrolled in post-secondary or post-graduate studies. A minimum of two spots are reserved for aspiring composer–pianists. Applicants must be 18+ at the time of the program start date. Domestic and international applications are welcome. Please note that Banff Centre programs do not meet the eligibility requirements for a Canadian Student Visa. Accepted participants must obtain a Visitor Visa to enter Canada and are responsible for identifying and complying with immigration requirements.

How to Apply

Learn more about the steps to Complete Your Application. Step 1: Complete the Online Form. Step 2: Pay your application fee. Please login with the username and password emailed to you on completion of step 1. Step 3: Upload Your Materials (Resume, Cover Letter, Proposed Repertoire, Resource Request Form, Portfolio, Financial Assistance). Performers should upload four (4) recent video recordings (up to 15 minutes total), including a two-minute introduction, an etude, one movement of a classical sonata, and one work of choice. Aspiring Composer/Pianists should submit scores of two compositions (and recordings if possible) and a brief artistic vision statement. Complete the Financial Aid question in SlideRoom to be eligible for financial assistance.