The “Anton G. Rubinstein” International Piano Competition, which, upon its debut in 2003 and then two years later in 2005, made an immediate and lasting impression on music professionals and audiences alike, justly confirmed its top-class position in the international competition world when it returned for the third time in 2007.
The competition commemorates Anton G. Rubenstein, who was once heralded by the legendary music critic Hans von Bülow as the “Michelangelo among pianists”. Rubenstein was one of the typical multi-talented prodigies of his time, and as a pianist, composer and founder of the St. Petersburg Conservatory, served as a driving force in the world of music. In 1890, he set up a competition in St. Petersburg bearing his own name. This was the first of its kind and became a model for regular music competitions open to musicians from any country. Famous winners include the outstanding pianists Wilhelm Backhaus, Joseph Levin, and Alexander Gedecke.
The organizers of the “Anton G. Rubinstein” International Piano Competition are committed to pursuing Rubinstein’s original concept of internationality, continuity and not least high quality. In 2009, the Dresden competition will again aim to maintain the standards of this “charmed virtuoso” (Thomas Mann).
And that is the reason why this event is specifically geared toward elite young pianists from around the world, who, through their studies at a music academy or similar institution, have the required credentials. A unique feature of the Dresden concept is that it not only enables up-and-coming musicians to match their talent against fellow competitors; it also provides them with an opportunity to make the acquaintance of a large network of international experts.
Indeed, the panel judging the competition comprises renowned concert pianists, professors and conductors, as well as important representatives from concert organizers, agencies, and the media, giving participants the unique opportunity to perform to exactly those people who can help them make the leap into the professional pianist world. The key to an international career is there for the taking in Dresden!
The competition is organized and staged by the Forum Tiberius - International Forum for Culture and Business in collaboration with the non-profit organization Competizione dell’ Opera e.V.. Partners giving this network its exemplary flair include the consultancy “Board Consultants International”, the renowned pianoforte manufactory Blüthner, the Semperopera Dresden, the “Carl Maria von Weber” Academy of Music and MDR Figaro.
Attractive prizes and special awards round off this internationally unparalleled competition. They are presented at its climax, namely at the festive final concert, when the most talented pianists are invited to perform to the public with orchestral accompaniment in the inimitable atmosphere of Dresden’s Semper Opera House.
