XIX Golden Key Piano Composition Competition – 2026

The intention of the XIX Golden Key Piano Composition Competition is to encourage creativity and self-expression in new and upcoming composers and to provide an opportunity for winning compositions to reach an international audience at the World Composers’ Recital held as part of the Golden Key Music Festival of Vienna. The competition comprises National and International Divisions. The National Division is exclusively available to composers residing in the United States, whereas the International Division is open to composers worldwide. U.S. residents have the option to apply for the National, International, or both divisions.
The Competition is open to composers in five age categories:
• Elementary (age 5 – 10)
• Junior (age 11 – 14)
• Senior (age 15 – 18)
• Young Artist (age 19 – 26)
• Professional (age 27 and older)
A composition may be in any style and should be originally written for a piano or a piano in ensemble with up to four other instruments or/and voice(s)ю