American Pianists Association

The mission of the American Pianists Association is to discover, promote and advance the careers of young, American, world-class jazz and classical pianists. We celebrate the beauty of music through America’s premiere jazz and classical awards. The American Pianists Awards are a biennial competition that rotates between a jazz and classical focus. The Awards span 18 months and culminate in a final performance where a winner is announced. The grand prize is valued at over $200,000 and includes a cash prize, career assistance, a record contract, and artist representation. This prize is one of the largest awards for a classical artist and the biggest for jazz. Our finalists and winners have gone on to build careers as renowned soloists and educators as well as receive critical acclaim and awards like Grammys, Emmys, and Avery Fischer Career Grants. Our pianists also inspire the next generation of musicians and music lovers through our Concerto Curriculum program. The Concerto Curriculum is a three-day high school residency in Indianapolis area high schools that culminates in a joint public performance with students.