In consideration of the continued spread of COVID-19 around the United States, uncertainty of international travel, and current guidance from health officials, the Cliburn has decided to postpone the 2020 Cliburn International Amateur Piano Competition. We did not make this decision lightly, but the safety of our competitors, patrons, volunteers, and personnel are of paramount importance. We are currently working with our partners to reschedule the Amateur Competition to the spring of 2022; details will be announced at a later date.
Below are answers to frequently asked questions for competitors and festival participants.
When will the rescheduled Amateur take place?
The Cliburn will make best efforts to reschedule the Amateur in spring/summer 2022. Exact dates will be announced in the future; there is not currently a projected date for this announcement to be made.
Will I automatically be accepted to the rescheduled Amateur? Will I have to reapply?
Competitors are guaranteed a place in the rescheduled Amateur and will confirm their participation at a later date. They will not need to reapply.
Non-competing festival participants are guaranteed a place in the rescheduled Amateur as a non-competing festival participant and will confirm their participation at a later date. They will not need to reapply to participate as a non-competing festival participant, but are welcome to reapply if they wish to be considered for any open competitor spot. (See note on application fees below.)
When will I have to confirm my participation in the rescheduled Amateur?
The Cliburn will not accept or ask for confirmations of participation at this time. Once details of the rescheduled Amateur have been released, the Cliburn will reach out to all participants with further information.
Will new applications be accepted?
Yes, new applications will be accepted to fill any slots vacated by participants who do not wish to or cannot participate in the rescheduled Amateur. Both non-accepted 2020 applicants (with new applications) and new applicants will be considered.
Will an application fee be charged?
Accepted competitors and non-competing festival participants are guaranteed their current spot in the rescheduled Amateur and are not required to submit a new application. For all others, including non-competing festival participants who wish to be considered for any open competitor spots, the same $125 application fee will be charged.
Will the format, jury, or conductor change?
All rounds and repertoire requirements are anticipated to stay the same.
The Cliburn will make best efforts to keep the same jury and conductor, contingent on availability for the rescheduled dates and other considerations. Any changes will likely be announced alongside the rescheduled dates.
Will I have to keep the same repertoire I already submitted?
No, participants will be asked for their repertoire prior to the rescheduled Amateur. All rules relating to repertoire will remain in effect.
Will the Cliburn refund my original application fee?
No, application fees are non-refundable.