Entries Open for the RNCM Seoul International Piano Competition 2026

BIEK News
Jun 26
2 min read

Applications are now open for the inaugural RNCM Seoul International Piano Competition 2026, taking place as part of BIEK Global Arts Week from 27 July to 1 August 2026.

Jointly organised by BIEK LLP, About Classic Group and the Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM), the competition has been established to provide talented young pianists throughout Korea with an opportunity to perform before an international jury comprising distinguished Korean professors together with faculty members from one of Britain's leading conservatoires.

The competition welcomes entries across four divisions, from elementary students through to university-level performers, reflecting BIEK's commitment to supporting musical excellence at every stage of education.

Preliminary rounds will take place on 27 and 28 July, with the final round being held on 31 July.

Unlike many conventional competitions, the RNCM Seoul International Piano Competition has been designed not simply to recognise achievement but also to support future educational progression.

Participants will receive professional adjudication from an international jury chaired by Professor Simon Callaghan and Professor Graham Scott of the Royal Northern College of Music.

Outstanding performers may receive official Jury Recommendations recognising exceptional artistic promise, while selected candidates will also have the opportunity to undertake RNCM admissions auditions during the final day of BIEK Global Arts Week.

Cash prizes, trophies and certificates will be awarded across each division, with the overall Grand Prize recognising the competition's outstanding performer.

The competition forms part of BIEK's wider commitment to developing educational bridges between Britain and Korea through excellence in music education.

Young musicians interested in studying in the United Kingdom will gain invaluable experience performing before British conservatoire professors while receiving feedback that would ordinarily only be available through overseas study.

Full competition regulations, repertoire requirements and application information are available through the official registration portal.