Competition Dates: November 15^th, 2025

Application Deadline: October 27^th, 2025

*The deadline dates above are Pacific Standard Time (PST). All applications are due before 11:59PM on the listed due dates.

 

Location: Irvine Conservatory of Music (4840 Irvine Blvd, Irvine, CA 92620)

 

Eligibility:

Open to pianists aged 5 to 18.

 

Application Fee:

$120/person

*All application fee are not refundable.

 

Prizes & Recognition:

• First, Second, and Third Prizes, along with Special Awards, will be presented to the selected winners.
• All prize winners will receive competition trophies, certificates, and medals.
• The jury’s decisions are final and not subject to appeal.
• The Irvine International Music Competition Committee reserves all rights related to the competition.

 

Categories:

Age Categories (as of September 1^st, 2025):

• Category A: Ages 5–7 (Born between September 2, 2017 and September 1, 2020)
• Category B: Ages 8–10 (Born between September 2, 2014 and September 1, 2017)
• Category C: Ages 11–14 (Born between September 2, 2010 and September 1, 2014)
• Category D: Ages 15–18 (Born between September 2, 2006 and September 1, 2010)

 

Repertoire Requirement:

Category A – Applicants’ choice of repertoire with limit of 4 min.

Category B – Applicants’ choice of repertoire with limit of 4 min.

Category C - Applicants’ choice of repertoire with limit of 5 min.

Category D - Applicants’ choice of repertoire with limit of 6 min.

 

Judging Criteria:

0-10 Technique (accuracy, clarity, tone quality, articulation, intonation)

0-10 Interpretation (musicality, style, balance, tempo, rhythm, pedaling, imagination) 

0-10 Musical achievement (level of repertoire, stage presence, memorization, artistry)

Total: 30 points