composer, which was compulsory in the Semifinal round, as well as a free-choice Debussy Prelude in the First round. For the 2027 edition, we plan to introduce a chamber music round. In recent editions, the Final Round has been performed with orchestra, with the First Prize winner additionally receiving the opportunity to perform a concerto at the Palau de la Música in Barcelona in the following seasons.In addition, we continue to pursue innovative programming, welcoming pianists who not only excel in performance but also demonstrate a thoughtful and explorative approach to music. These initiatives aim to broaden the artistic horizons of the competition, our commitment to contemporary repertoire while connecting participants with the music that Ricard Viñes championed.
Please introduce in a few words your competition, its history and legacy.
The Ricard Viñes International Piano Competition celebrates the 150th anniversary of the great Spanish pianist Ricard Viñes, a key figure in early 20th-century music. Viñes was renowned for his interpretations of Debussy, Ravel, Falla, and other contemporary composers, and played a crucial role in premiering and promoting works that shaped modern piano repertoire. The 27th edition of the competition will take place in 2027, following a biennial format and alternating with the Ricard Viñes Festival in the intervening years. Under my artistic direction since 2025, the Competition has entered a new phase of internationalization and artistic innovation, fostering the growth and development of emerging pianists. Past laureates, including Elia Ceccino and Anthony Ratinov, have gone on to successful international careers, reflecting our commitment to discovering and promoting exceptional young pianists worldwide. What do you offer your laureates in terms of career support? Our laureates receive significant career- development opportunities, including international concert engagements and collaborations with partner institutions such as the Festival de Música de Morelia (Mexico). They are also offered performances in major venues, including the Palau de la Música Catalana, as well as return engagements that strengthen their artistic connection with the legacy of Ricard Viñes. In addition, winners benefit from professional mentoring, recording and concert opportunities linked to the Ricard Viñes International Piano Festival, providing them with a meaningful artistic platform and a solid foundation for an emerging international career. Are there any novelties/new aspects of your competition that you have introduced or will introduce?
Tell us a little about your city!
Lleida, in the heart of Catalonia, is a city with a rich cultural heritage, combining historic monuments like La Seu Vella with modern artistic venues such as the Auditori Enric Granados and La Llotja. During our piano competition, the city transforms into a vibrant centre for music, celebrating the legacy of Ricard Viñes and Enric Granados, who were also born in Lleida, while attracting both local audiences and international visitors. In addition, Lleida offers excellent facilities for practising throughout the competition days.
What expectations do you have of the members of the WFIMC?
We look forward to establishing strong connections with fellow competitions, fostering international collaborations, and learning from the experience of long-standing WFIMC members. These exchanges are essential for creating new opportunities for young pianists and for promoting shared values of artistic excellence. Becoming part of the WFIMC comes at a pivotal moment for the Ricard Viñes International Piano Competition, as it enters a new phase of growth and international visibility. We see this membership as a wonderful opportunity to contribute to supporting emerging talent.
In our 26th edition in 2025, we introduced a new commissioned work by a Spanish
New Member Competitions
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