EIU Department of Music

Midwest Collaborative Piano Festival

February 24, 2018

Eastern Illinois University

-Where the accompanist is the star-
 

The Eastern Illinois University Department of Music is excited to announce the fourth annual festival for young collaborative pianists (grades 6-12). Come improve your skills and make new friends at this unique event dedicated to the developing accompanist!

In addition to non-ranked merit awards (e.g., for responsiveness to coaching, for stage presence, artistry, etc.), participants are eligible for scholarships to the 2018 Eastern Music Camp.

$1500 in prizes were awarded last year!

How to Participate

1. Find a partner! It could be a singer or instrumentalist (including another pianist). You have to be in 6-12 grade, but your partner may be of any age.
2. Choose your music! Each duo should prepare 8-10 minutes of music from the standard classical repertoire. All levels are welcome. Email Dr. Bowman if you have questions or want ideas.
3. Fill out the online application.  Be sure we reserve your performance slot by applying before the February 4, 2018 deadline! 

All applicants will be notified by February 6th as to the status of their application.

Festival Events

On the day of the competition, you and your partner will perform in a masterclass setting with Dr. Jonathan Bowman, where you get feedback and suggestions for improvement. After some coaching you will have a chance to give a brief second performance.

We will address important concepts such as:

• The technical polish of your own part
• Maturity of interpretation (including style and expression)
• Awareness of and sensitivity to your partner's part (including balance, expressively synchronized phrasing, musical dialogue, and a shared conception of the work)
• Improvement shown in the second performance

After the performances, we will announce awards and share a tasty lunch (provided for each participant, their partner, and one parent/support person).

We look forward to meeting you there!

Direct questions or concerns to Dr. Bowman.