Harold Protsman Classical Period Piano Competition:Rules

Finalists in any year may not repeat a composition in subsequent years.

Contestants must prepare two (only) solo compositions which clearly contrast in tempo and character (one fast and one slow). Each sonata or sonatina movement counts as one composition.

Only original, solo piano music of the following composers may be used: Clementi, Kuhlau, Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven, and the sons of J.S. Bach. For Levels 1 through 4, students may not perform Beethoven sonatas beyond Op. 31, except for Opp. 49 and 79.

Compositions must be prepared in their entirety, but without repeats (unless required by compositional form). If it is clear that time will run out, judges may ask a student to move to a later juncture in a composition (e.g., to the coda). Performances will be stopped by monitors when time limits have been reached.

No concertos will be allowed.

Level 5 entrants must be enrolled for undergraduate credit-study in piano and not hold a degree in piano.

Both compositions must be performed from memory.

One score of each composition (not photocopied) must be brought for the judges.

Other than a cushion if needed, no apparatus, furniture, or attachment may be brought into the audition studio.

Only the scheduled student may attend the audition.

Award winners from earlier years are eligible to compete.