Massarosa International Piano Competition

An international competition in the heart of Versilia

The Massarosa International Piano Competition is one of the most anticipated musical events in the Versilia calendar. Organized by the Massarosa Musical Association in collaboration with the Municipality of Massarosa, in the province of Lucca, the competition takes place every year at the Teatro Vittoria Manzoni, attracting young under-30 pianists from all over the world. Created to promote emerging piano talents, the competition has launched numerous young performers over the years, establishing itself as a benchmark for classical music in Tuscany.

A prestigious international jury

The value of the event is reflected in the composition of the jury, which brings together some of the most authoritative names on the piano scene. In the 2026 edition, the committee was chaired by artistic director Riccardo Risaliti and included Vovka Ashkenazy, Georgy Gromov, Giampaolo Nuti, and Olivier Gardon. A panel of renowned concert performers and teachers that guarantees contestants a serious and high-profile evaluation.

How the event is structured

The competition follows a well-established format. It all begins with a free inaugural concert performed by a young guest pianist. This is followed by preliminary rounds, where contestants perform before the jury, leading up to the grand public final, where finalists compete for prizes in front of the audience. Among the most cherished awards is the Renata Morganti Prize, awarded by the audience in the hall through a vote, making the public an active part of the competition.

The prizes

The competition offers a significant prize pool, supported by various local entities and foundations. Prizes are awarded to the top finishers, with a special recognition for the best Italian contestant and the aforementioned Renata Morganti Prize voted on by the spectators. A consolation prize is also provided for those who narrowly miss the final, which includes a professional video recording: a precious opportunity for young performers at the start of their careers.

Massarosa, Versilia, and music

Nestled between Lake Massaciuccoli and the hills of Versilia, Massarosa is a town in the province of Lucca, Tuscany, which transforms into a small crossroads of international talent during the days of the competition. The festival is a unique opportunity to hear the pianists of the future live in an intimate and welcoming setting, just a few kilometers from the beaches of Versilia and the art cities of Lucca and Pisa. Free admission to the main evenings makes the event accessible to all classical music lovers.