The 2025 Honens International Piano Competition is dedicated to finding pianists who embody the philosophy of the Complete Artist—artists who combine technical mastery with artistic innovation and inspire through deep cultural and social awareness. At the 2025 Competition, three Laureates—Gold, Silver, and Bronze—will be awarded cash prizes and the sought-after Artist Development Program.
Competing pianists are offered a chance to share their own unique artistry with the world through self-programmed recitals in every round, interviews, and collaboration with other artists. This year, each Semifinalist will perform at least one work from an under-represented composer (self selected and for whom they have provided rationale), as well as an eight-minute newly commissioned work by Iman Habibi.
The Competitions Semifinal and Final rounds take place in Calgary beginning on 16 October 2025 and culminating in the naming of a Gold, Silver, and Bronze Laureate on 24 October.
Honens Gold Laureate
$100,000*
Honens Silver Laureate
$40,000*
Honens Bronze Laureate
$20,000*
Other Awards
$2,500* each
- Semifinalists (seven)
- Audience (one)
- Best Performance of the Commissioned Work
Incubator Award
The Incubator Award may provide one competitor, who has the passion and the courage to be a change agent, up to three years of support for one special project.
*All cash prizes are in Canadian dollars.
Artist Development Program
Along with substaintial cash prizes, Honens Laureates receive access to the Artist Development Program, one of the most comprehensive artistic development and career accelerators available in the industry.
Based on a needs assessment and tailored to each Laureate, the three-year program provides the holistic tools, opportunities, and mentorship needed to thrive long-term on the global stage. This can include but is not limited to debut recitals in career-building markets; introductions to artist managers; coaching and mentorship; vocal coaching and public speaking development; media training; opportunities to experiment with programming and collaborations for specific audiences; residencies and special projects; and the production, release, and distribution of professional recordings.
Juries
Honens Competition juries include concert pianists and other individuals, such as musicians and presenters, from the musical world who play a meaningful role in a concert artist’s career.
Performers
Solo performance, chamber music, and collaboration with orchestra are all essential for concert pianists. All these elements are integral to the Honens search for the Complete Artist.
Composer
Honens believes that a Complete Artist explores both the pivotal works of the piano literature and the music of our time. To demonstrate their ability to approach and study contemporary repertoire, competitors must perform a newly-commissioned work by a Canadian composer.
Mentor
An internationally respected, actively touring pianist serves as the Honens Mentor-in-Residence and meets with each Semifinalist and Finalist in the days following the Competition.
Support the Competition
There are many meaningful ways to contribute to Honens during a Competition year. Whether donating, volunteering, or gifting Aeroplan Miles, every effort is important and appreciated.
Learn More
Supporting Partners
Artist Development Program
Debut Series
Official Piano
Official Piano
Principal Partners
Design
Video Production
Hotel
Hotel
Honourary Solicitor
Program Partners
Laureate Circle, Calgary
Official Wine Sponsor
Partners
Official Piano Technician
Foundations & Public Funders
