Ischia International Piano Competition

An international piano competition in the heart of Ischia

The Ischia International Piano Competition is one of the most highly regarded piano contests in Southern Italy, hosted every summer within the walls of Villa Arbusto, the historic 18th-century estate that now houses the Pithecusae Archaeological Museum in Lacco Ameno, in the Province of Naples. On the 'Green Island' in the Gulf of Naples, Campania, the competition brings world-class keyboard music to one of the most enchanting corners of the Mediterranean for a few days.

Organizers

The event is promoted by the Associazione Musicale Note sul Mare in collaboration with the Municipality of Lacco Ameno, under the artistic direction of maestros Federica Monti and Fabio Bianco. Over the years, the competition has grown into a key reference point for young piano talents, attracting participants from every continent.

How it works

The competition is open to pianists of all nationalities under the age of 35, serving as a showcase for the new generation. Following a video pre-selection, successful candidates travel to Ischia for live performances at Villa Arbusto, judged by a panel of concert pianists, professors, and international music figures. The repertoire ranges from grand Romantic virtuosity to 20th-century masterpieces, featuring studies by composers such as Chopin, Liszt, Scriabin, Rachmaninov, Prokofiev, Debussy, and Ligeti.

The final concert

The highlight of the event is the awards ceremony and final winners' concert, held on Sunday evening at Villa Arbusto. It is a unique opportunity for the audience to hear the top-selected performers live in an elegant and intimate setting. In addition to cash prizes, the top finishers are offered concert opportunities that continue the island's musical season.

An experience blending music and landscape

The strength of the Ischia International Piano Competition lies in its ability to combine the rigor of an international contest with the charm of Ischia: the thermal spas, the sea, the gardens of Villa Arbusto, and the warm hospitality of Campania provide the perfect backdrop for days entirely dedicated to the piano. It is an event that fosters young musicians while promoting the cultural and tourist value of Lacco Ameno and the entire Campania region.