Artist for the Next Generation – An Award that Shapes the Future

Musical excellence is not achieved through talent and hard work alone—it thrives through mentorship, inspiration, and support. Many of the greatest pianists of our time had mentors, patrons, or institutions that helped shape their artistic journeys. Yet, while the spotlight often belongs to the performers, those who work tirelessly behind the scenes to nurture young talent too often go unnoticed.

With the "Artist for the Next Generation" award, we honor pianists who go beyond their own artistic careers to invest in the future—whether through foundations, educational initiatives, masterclasses, mentorship programs, or direct financial support. These artists are deeply committed to ensuring that young pianists have access to high-quality education, professional networks, and artistic inspiration.

Preserving and Passing on Knowledge

Classical music thrives on tradition and transmission. Great pianists who share their knowledge and experience with young talents make an invaluable contribution to the artistic development of the next generation.

Creating Access and Opportunities for Young Musicians

Not every talented musician has the same opportunities. Financial barriers, limited access to renowned teachers, or a lack of performance opportunities can be significant obstacles. Artists who open doors for young pianists through scholarships, masterclasses, or competitions help create a more equitable and inclusive industry.

Mentorship as the Key to Artistic Maturity

Beyond technical mastery and musical interpretation, artistic maturity is essential for a pianist’s success. The guidance of an experienced artist can help young musicians discover their unique voice, navigate self-doubt, and establish themselves in the international music world.

A Tribute to Dedication and Generosity

With the "Artist for the Next Generation" award, Amadion, Amadeus International Piano Awards sends a clear message: The future of piano music depends on established artists embracing their responsibility to support young talent. We seek to honor those who not only shine themselves but also inspire others to shine.

  • Application
    No application is possible for this category.

    As this award honors particularly outstanding artists who have shown exceptional commitment to supporting the next generation of pianists, the selection process does not involve an open application round. Instead, the organization takes an active role in identifying the artists who have made remarkable contributions to the development of young talent. These artists may be those who have supported young pianists through foundations, mentorship programs, or other initiatives. The organization directly contacts these artists and considers them for the award.

    However, if there are artists who would like to nominate themselves for this award, they can express their support for the next generation of pianists by directly reaching out to the organization via E-Mail at nextgeneration@amadion.org
  • Evaluation Categories
    The evaluation categories and criteria for honoring the artists include various achievements and exceptional events.

    For the "Artist for the Next Generation" award, the following factors are primarily considered:

    • Commitment to young talent: The extent and quality of the support an artist provides to young pianists, whether through mentorship, masterclasses, scholarships, or by initiating and participating in development programs.
    • Promotion of education and training: How the artist contributes to the development of the next generation by providing resources or platforms for young musicians. This may include both financial support and access to high-quality educational initiatives.
    • Sustainable impact on the music scene: The long-term and lasting influence of the artist’s efforts in helping young pianists. This includes both personal mentorship and the creation of structures that extend beyond the artist themselves.
    • Personal integrity and role model function: The artist as a role model for the younger generation, both artistically and in terms of ethical and social values.

    The selection is based on the tangible contributions and initiatives the artist has made in supporting young musicians and classical music promotion.
  • Selection Process
    The selection process for the award follows a structured procedure to ensure transparency and fairness.

    An open selection process is conducted for all potential candidates. A commission will choose the most talented and committed artists who have distinguished themselves in the support of the next generation of pianists.

    • Phase 1 – Nominations and Review:
    The organization and the commission actively research artists who have shown long-term commitment and dedication to young musicians. Recommendations from partners and prominent figures in the music industry will also be considered.

    • Phase 2 – Selection of Nominees:
    From this initial review, 4 finalists will be selected. This selection is based on the previously mentioned evaluation criteria and serves as an indicator not only of the artist's current contributions but also of their potential to continue supporting the next generation of pianists.

    • Phase 3 – Commission Decision and Winner Selection:
    After careful evaluation and discussion of all nominated artists, the commission will select the winner of the award. The decision will be based on the exceptional significance and impact of the artist’s contributions to the development of young pianists.

    The winner will be honored at the annual Amadion Amadeus International Piano Awards ceremony. This award is not only a recognition of the artist’s past efforts but also a call to continue supporting and nurturing the next generation of musicians.