Special Beethoven Category
IPPA is pleased to announce the Special Beethoven Category in 2026 IPPA International Piano Competition.
This special category celebrates the creative genius of Beethoven and honors music that speaks to both the heart and mind of humanity.
Eligible participants in the Special Beethoven Category receive the following benefits:
A $1,000 cash prize, awarded across three age divisions.
All participants receive certificate and comments from judges.
Winners in the final round will receive trophy.
Age Divisions
Junior Beethoven Group: Ages 10–13
Senior Beethoven Group: Ages 14–17
Professional Beethoven Group: Ages 18–32
Repertoire Requirements
Free choice of original works Ludwig van Beethoven
Transcriptions are not permitted
Performers may include individual movements from one or more sonatas, as well as selected pieces from a larger set, such as Bagatelles or Variations.
Awards & Prizes
Professional Beethoven Group
(ages 18–32)
🏆 First Prize: $600
Senior Beethoven Group (ages 14–17)
🏆 First Prize: $200
Junior Beethoven Group
(ages 10–13)
🏆 First Prize: $200
Repertoire Age Groups
Junior Beethoven Group
(Ages 10–13)
First Round:
One or two works Beethoven
Maximum repertoire length: 10 minutes
Performance time limit: 7 minutes
Final Round:
One or two works, including one from the First Round repertoire.
Maximum repertoire length: 10 minutes
Senior Beethoven Group
(Ages 14–17)
First Round:
One or two works Beethoven
Maximum repertoire length: 15 minutes
Performance time limit: 10 minutes
Final Round:
One or two works, including one from the First Round repertoire.
Maximum repertoire length: 15 minutes
Professional Beethoven Group (Ages 18–32)
First Round:
One or two works Beethoven
Maximum repertoire length: 20 minutes
Performance time limit: 12 minutes
Final Round:
One or two works, including one from the First Round repertoire.
Total duration: No more than 20 minutes
Frequently asked question:
How to Sign Up?
You can apply the Special Beethoven Category through the IPPA Competition National Round. Find your own division, use the national round application form to submit your information.
Application Fee:
First Round: USD $120
Final Round: USD $180
How many divisions are open for the Special Beethoven Category?
For this first-year pilot, the Beethoven Special Category will be offered in person within North America(US and Canada) only, with plans to expand to all global divisions in future editions.
Can I enter both the Beethoven Special Category and the regular divisions?
Yes, you can apply for both categories through the same application. If you are using the same piece for each category, you will be playing again in separate category.
Can 2025 finalists enter?
Yes, you must apply through your division’s national round competition.