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© Ana Clara Matta

Junior Competition brings together children and young pianists up to the age of 18 at Casa da Música

Following the Main Category, the Santa Cecília Piano Festival once again turns the spotlight on the youngest generation of pianists with the Junior Competition, taking place from 14 to 18 July at Casa da Música. Open to young performers aged 5 to 18, divided into six age categories, this stage of the Festival accompanies the first steps of future musicians, fostering learning, sharing and enjoyment in a welcoming environment of artistic excellence.

Over five days, participants take to the stage at Casa da Música before an international jury, performing a diverse repertoire that showcases not only their technical development, but also their musical personality. More than a competition, the Junior Category is a space for learning, cultural exchange and friendship, reaffirming Santa Cecília’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of pianists.

The programme culminates on Saturday, 18 July, with two events open to the public. From 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Casa Comum – University of Porto hosts the traditional Piano Marathon, a five-hour non-stop concert featuring some of the edition’s most promising young pianists, offering audiences a unique opportunity to experience the future of classical music from its very first steps.

The Junior Competition concludes later that day, at 6:00 p.m., at Casa da Música, with the Laureates’ Concert, bringing together the winners of the different age categories in a celebration of talent and work.

Check out the junior calendar here.