Everything you need to know about the piano competition!

World-class piano music, 30 pianists from 18 countries, free entrance to preliminary rounds, a recital in Håkonshallen and the thrilling final – join us!

What is this piano competition all about?
The International Edvard Grieg Piano Competition is a biennial competition arranged by the Edvard Grieg Museum Troldhaugen in Bergen, Norway. The level of the competitors has been extraordinary high every year, so has the number of participants. Winning this competition can help the pianist make his or hers international break-through.

How can I follow the competition as a member of the audience?
The competition begins Saturday September 1, at Troldhaugen. The first daily, preliminary rounds of the competition take place here, with free entrance for all audience. Spend the whole day at Troldhaugen or «drop by» - the competition begins in the morning and will last all day. Every day includes a Listeners' forum, with talks and discussions on the competition.

What will I have to know about piano music before joining as audience?
Nothing! You are welcome to follow the competition with open ears and to experience world-class piano music, regardless of foreknowledge.

Who is playing the recital in Håkonshallen September 7?
Friday 7 September Sergei Babayan comes to Bergen! The highly sought-after Armenian pianist is regarded as one of the leading pianists of our time. He is also the previous professor of the multi-award winning pianist Daniil Trifonov. Hailed for his emotional intensity, bold energy and remarkable levels of color, Sergei Babayan brings a deep understanding and insight to a stylistically diverse repertoire, which includes a performance history of 60 concerts.

How is the competition concluded?
The thrilling final takes place in Grieghallen Sunday September 9 with the Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra and conductor Edward Gardner. Here the remaining three pianists will deliver dazzling performances, competing for high-stakes prizes and being judged by the jury. You also get the chance to vote for your favourite for the Audience prize – maybe «your» pianist will be the winner of the International Edvard Grieg Piano Competition?

Welcome!

More information about the audience program

Tickets for the recital in Håkonshallen

Tickets for the competition final in Grieghallen