The two piano industry powerhouses have joined forces to launch an online piano competition, taking place from 30 July - 9 August
Virtu(al)oso is a virtual piano competitions that provides relief for musicians around the world. They will achieve this through their unique prize-giving system: Unlike other competitions that tend to award funds to the top finalists only, Virtu(al)oso will award a minimum of $1,000 USD to each pianist who takes part. Audiences will be able to add to this amount by donating to their contestant of choice during the competition.
In addition, career management and support prizes will also be given to the top three finalists.
Steinway & Sons, the competition's partner, will record the performances at five of their Steinway galleries located around the world; Cleveland, New York, London, Hamburg and Beijing. The 30 contestants selected will record their performances at their nearest Steinway location, while adhering to all local healthy and safety guidelines.
Yaron Kohlberg, President of Piano Cleveland, comments, "These are trying times for our musicians and we are passionate about doing everything possible to offer support on a global scale.
We are adapting to the new normal, creating a virtual platform for our pianists to benefit financially and for the betterment of their future careers."
Piano Cleveland host the annual well-respected Cleveland International Piano Competition, which has unfortunately been cancelled this year.
The competition performances will be broadcast on Piano Cleveland's website and social media channels, as well as Steinway & Sons' YouTube channel.
Main image: © Piano Cleveland