Olivier Eugène Prosper Charles Messiaen was a visionary composer of the 20th century, whose music is characterized by exceptional harmony, rhythmic complexity, and profound spiritual dimensions. This category honors the ability to master Messiaen’s innovative style, which often translates mystical, religious, and nature-related themes into an intricate yet sensual sound language. Messiaen’s works not only require technical skill but also a deep sensitivity to the atmospheric and metaphysical qualities of his music.

Interpreting his works requires precise control over the unusual rhythms and harmonies, as well as an understanding of the meditative and sometimes ecstatic nature of his music. The pianist must connect the impressive density of his compositions with a refined tonal expression that highlights both the detailed complexity and the unfathomable beauty of his works.

  • Rules, Qualification Round
    Overview

    The competition and the Award of Merit are conducted in three successive rounds:

    I. Performance Screening

    In the first phase, applicants have the opportunity to submit a selected video performance.

    All submitted performances will be reviewed and evaluated by the internal artistic committee.

    Only selected pianists will subsequently receive a personal invitation to officially participate in the qualification round of the AMADION – Amadeus International Piano Awards.

    Application is free of charge.


    Eligibility Requirements and Information

    The AMADION – Amadeus International Piano Awards is open to piano students from all countries and nations. The eligibility requirements for participation are that applicants must be between 18 and 32 years old at the time of application, and they must be enrolled as students at a music university, conservatory, academy, or other higher education institution. Regardless of whether they are pursuing a Bachelor's, Master's, Doctoral, or Diploma degree.

    Application Process
    Applications are accepted exclusively through the official website of the organization at www.amadion.org in the "APPLY" section.

    Applicants are required to complete the application form in full.

    Submission of Video Performance
    Applicants must submit a video recording of their performance via a link on YouTube, Vimeo or a similar platform in the "APPLY" section. Only one video link may be submitted, which must feature a single piece by a chosen composer. The performance must be recorded in a continuous take.

    • The recording must have been made no later than 18 months before the submission date.
    • The total length of the video may not exceed 20 minutes. If the video exceeds the maximum performance time, the jury will only evaluate the first 20 minutes.
    • The choice of repertoire is free. The video must be of high quality, especially in terms of sound.
    • The video must not be edited or altered. Recordings from previous concerts or other competitions are acceptable.
    • The performance must be played entirely by the applicant. Multiple cameras may be used, but no sound effects should be added to the video.

    Application for Multiple Categories
    Each application is considered a separate submission. Applicants may apply for multiple categories by submitting an appropriate piece for each category.

    Application Deadline
    Information about the application deadline will be published on the official website of the organization at www.amadion.org. Please note that the times are given in European Time Zone (CET). Applications submitted too early or too late will not be accepted or processed.

    II. Qualification Round

    Selected pianists after the Performance Screening will be invited to participate in the Qualification Round.

    In the qualification round, a comprehensive artistic evaluation of the submitted performances takes place. The jury assesses the musical quality based on essential interpretative and technical criteria. Only applicants who achieve a minimum score of 90 points qualify for the next round.

    Evaluation Criteria

    Interpretation & Expression - 40 Points
    – Musical phrasing & shaping (max. 10 P.)
    – Dynamics and articulation (max. 15 P.)
    – Emotional depth & personal interpretation (max. 15 P.)

    Technical Precision & Level of Difficulty - 30 Points
    – Cleanliness & control (max. 10 P.)
    – Virtuosity & dexterity (max. 10 P.)
    – Rhythmic stability & pedal technique (max. 10 P.)

    Stylistic Accuracy & Artistic Authenticity - 20 Points
    – Historical & stylistic appropriateness (max. 10 P.)
    – Fidelity to the work & understanding of the era (max. 10 P.)

    Stage Presence & Overall Impression - 10 Points
    – Confidence & charisma (max. 5 P.)
    – Communication with the audience & presentation (max. 5 P.)

    Paricipation Fee for Qualification Round.

    After receiving the invitation to participate in the qualification round via email, a participation fee of 100 Euros is to be paid within 5 business days.

    Each application is considered a separate submission. Applicants may apply for multiple categories by submitting an appropriate piece for each category. A separate application fee of Euro 100 applies to each submission.

    Presentation of Qualified Applicants
    Qualified applicants will be presented on the official website of the organization at www.amadion.org with a photo, a short biography, and their video performance.

  • Selection of Nominees
    Qualified artists will receive further instructions for the nominee selection process, including the verification of their identity. In this round, each performance will be evaluated in detail by all jury members based on AMADION’s official evaluation criteria.

    The individual scores from all jury members are then combined. Based on these total scores, the four highest-scoring participants in each category will be officially nominated for the AMADION, Amadeus International Piano Awards.


    Qualification Criteria & Nomination Process

    From all qualified Artists, four nominees will be selected per category.
    Priority of Interpretation – If two or more candidates have the exact same total score, the score from the Interpretation category (max. 40 points) will be considered.

    Technical Precision as the next criterion – If there is still a tie, the score from the Technical Precision category (max. 30 points) will be used.

    Authenticity & Artistic Integrity – If the tie continues, the score from the Authenticity & Artistic Integrity category (max. 20 points) will be used.

    Stage Presence & Overall Impression as a further criterion – If the tie persists, the score from the Stage Presence & Overall Impression category (max. 10 points) will be considered.

    Final Decision by the Jury – If a tie still remains after the application of the above criteria, the Jury will make the final decision through a special vote of the remaining candidates.
  • The Officiale Ceremnonie
    The official award ceremony of AMADION – Amadeus International Piano Awards 2025 will take place on November 27, 2025, at the Ehrbar Hall in Palais Ehrbar, Vienna. All winners will perform live on stage as part of the evening’s artistic program. The event will be hosted by professional presenters and broadcast live. Coverage will span national and international cultural and television networks, radio stations, and digital platforms dedicated to classical music and the arts.

    All nominees will receive an official invitation to the ceremony. In a distinguished setting and in the presence of media representatives, music critics, artist agencies, patrons of classical music, music industry professionals, as well as guests from the Austrian Ministry of Culture and diplomatic delegations, the AMADION will be presented in recognition of outstanding artistic achievements.

    Prizes will be awarded to the nominated artists, winners, and qualified participants, provided directly by piano manufacturers, music and cultural organizations, as well as private and public music foundations and societies. Each prize will be individually determined by the respective sponsors to duly acknowledge the exceptional achievements and dedication of the artists.
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