We offer two different main tiers of classes. 1. Non-Competition, 2. Competition Classes (please read below for more detail). Select your grade in school/age below for 2025 class information.

Each class has a total time limit, which includes both your performance and the adjudication. We recommend using about half of your time for performing and leaving the other half for feedback from the adjudicator.

The Piano Division welcomes pianists 1st Grade through Adult, providing an exceptional opportunity to showcase talent, develop skills, and receive expert guidance. This division is perfect for students, whether they are just beginning or are already accomplished players. Participants will perform in front of seasoned adjudicators who offer valuable feedback. Teachers can inspire their students, while parents will find a supportive atmosphere that encourages artistic growth, with opportunities to explore classical, contemporary, and other genres.

NON-COMPETITION CLASSES

1. Introductory Masterclasses are for those who would like to perform and receive feedback, but not receive a numerical score. The relaxed and encouraging atmosphere of the masterclass is perfect for musicians of any age (studying privately or not), who are beginners or intermediates, or who just want to try out their pieces and get helpful suggestions from an outstanding adjudicator. Memory is optional, and pieces need not be completely polished. Any repertoire (in any style) that does not exceed 6 minutes may be chosen in order to allow for ample adjudication time on the piece. Piano accompaniment is optional. Introductory Masterclasses offer participants the opportunity to perform a piece of their choice and receive written and oral feedback from the adjudicator. The music may be from any era or genre of music.
2. Adjudication-Only Classes are for those who wish to receive feedback and a numerical score. Memory is optional. Piano accompaniment is expected when appropriate. Adjudicator will offer written and oral feedback along with a numerical score. No medals are awarded. Participants may be chosen to play on the KPBX public radio at the discretion of the adjudicator.

COMPETITION CLASSES

3. *Competition Classes (marked by an asterisk) are for those who wish to compete for medals. Memory is required unless otherwise stated. Piano accompaniment is expected when/where appropriate. Adjudicator will offer written and oral feedback, along with a numerical score. Gold/silver medals are awarded at the discretion of the adjudicator. Medal winners may be invited to perform live on the KPBX radio. Participants may be chosen to play on the KPBX public radio at the discretion of the adjudicator.
4. **Adjudicators’ Choice Class (marked by a double asterisk) indicate a competition class where participants receive written and oral feedback, along with a numerical score. Gold/silver medals are awarded at the discretion of the adjudicator. The gold medal winner with the highest score in any 9th-12th grade Adjudicators choice,  will be invited to perform a piece no longer than 5 minutes (this may mean there will be cuts in the piece) at the Festival Highlights concert at the Myrtle Woldson Performing Arts Center.The gold medal winner with the highest score in any College Adjudicators choice,  will be invited to perform a piece no longer than 5 minutes (this may mean there will be cuts in the piece) at the Festival College Collage concert at the Myrtle Woldson Performing Arts Center. Participants may be chosen to play on the KPBX public radio at the discretion of the adjudicator.
5. The Young Artist Competition is the highest level of competition and is reserved for those ages 16-29. The gold medal winner performs with the Spokane Symphony in the Young Artist Concert at the Fox Theater, and receives a cash prize. Ballet Young Artist performer performs in the Festival Highlights Concert at the Myrtle Woldson Performing Arts Center, and receives a cash prize. Memory is required unless otherwise stated. Piano accompaniment is required when appropriate. Participants may be chosen to play on the KPBX public radio at the discretion of the adjudicator.

2024 MusicFest Northwest Needs-Based Scholarship Form