TBD, Fall 2026
The UW-Platteville Piano Festival is a biennial two-day celebration of piano performance and learning, offering a unique opportunity for young pianists, UW-Platteville piano students, local teachers, and community members to come together through music. Held in our beautiful Brodbeck Concert Hall, featuring a Steinway Concert D, the festival provides participants with a 45-minute individual lesson, the chance to perform in a recital, and the opportunity to take part in an interactive Q&A session with guest pianists and artists. All lessons are open for public observation, allowing students and teachers alike to gain insight into teaching approaches and performance interpretation.
This warm and supportive event is designed to inspire musicians of all ages who have studied piano for at least five years, fostering artistic growth in a professional yet friendly environment. Whether performing, observing, or simply listening, attendees will enjoy a rich musical experience filled with encouragement, curiosity, and connection. Participation in lessons and the recital is especially encouraged for pianists who are prepared to perform a solo work, ideally from the Class A repertoire list for WSMA Solo & Ensemble festivals or a piece of similar level.
Festival Highlights
- Public Piano Lessons: Participants receive individual lessons (up to 45 minutes) in a warm and encouraging setting in our beautiful Brodbeck Concert Hall with the Steinway Concert D. These lessons are open to the public for observation, offering a chance to learn from each student and their repertoire.
- Participant Recital: Students perform in Brodbeck Concert Hall. This is a wonderful opportunity to gain experience and confidence in a supportive and respectful atmosphere, while learning concert etiquette and stage presence like a professional pianist.
- Artist Q&A Session: An informal conversation between artists, students, and parents about music, performance, practice, the life of a musician, and overall well-being. Students are encouraged to ask questions and engage with the artists’ insights and experiences during this interactive session.
- Guest Artist Recital: Attendees are invited to enjoy a special evening concert by guest artists. The program features music that is both inspiring and educational.
Participation
The UW-Platteville Piano Festival is open to elementary, middle, high school, and homeschool students; UW-Platteville students; piano teachers; and adult learners. Participants should be prepared to perform a solo piano piece (Class A WSMA level or similar) and should have at least five years of piano study.
Registration and Fees
For student participants under 18 years old, the registration fee is $20 and includes the attendance of one parent/guardian, as well as a 45-minute lesson, participant recital performance, admission to guest artist recital, and lesson observations and Q&A session. Registration links coming soon.
Previous guest artists
These distinguished artists have brought diverse perspectives and rich musical experiences to our festival, inspiring students, parents, and the local community through performances, masterclasses, interactive Q&A sessions, and collaborative events.
- Professor Gregory Chaverdian – Concordia University, Montréal, Canada (along with his student, Angela Yixuan Miao the Grand Prize winner of the 2023 OMNI International Music Competition)
- Dr. Sergio Ruiz – University of Nebraska–Lincoln
- Dr. Javier Pinell, violinist – Sam Houston State University, Texas (in collaboration with Dr. Ruiz)