Royal Philharmonic Orchestra accompanies HIPCC 2019 prizewinner, Fumiya Koido, in 2020 (photo: Peter Mould).

HIPCC postponed to early 2022

The Hastings International Piano Concerto Competition has been postponed to early 2022, due to ongoing COVID 19 restrictions, writes Chris Cormack.

HIPCC is an internationally renowned biennial competition for young concert pianists attracting entrants from across the globe, 40 of whom come to compete in Hastings during the live finals,  giving them an opportunity to perform with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra on a two-night final if they succeed that far and to win a first prize of £15,000.

The rescheduled competition should now take place from 24 February to 5 March 2022, with successful entrants being selected from video auditions by a panel appointed by the President of the Jury Prof Vanessa Latarche. Prof Latarche, Head of Keyboard at The Royal College of Music, joined HIPCC last year to curate the next competition and oversee the audition process, as well as to preside over the international jury she has invited to join her in Hastings.

HIPCC has enjoyed a record number of entries this year, from an even bigger list of countries, reflecting the competition’s growing national and international importance. It was decided that it must only take place once competitors’ and audiences’ safety could be guaranteed after music venues re-open.

Managing Director of Hastings International Piano, Ian Roberts, said:

“The past 12 months have been an extremely testing time for all music, cultural and arts organisations and we have been constantly reviewing and adjusting our live dates and overcoming the many challenges that COVID-19 has presented. The safety of the young artists, volunteers, audiences and our team is of the utmost importance.

“I want to thank our many patrons, friends, volunteers, host families and sponsors whose kindness, support and patience will never be taken for granted. Without them this important cultural event would not be able to take place nor continue to spark an interest in live music for our younger generation.

“I am also pleased that our ongoing partnership with The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra continues in 2022 and we look forward to announcing further news about our exciting schedule of online and socially distanced events taking place once lockdown ends.”

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