Bravura Piano Competition
More than a placing. A pathway for performance.
A Stage for Every Pianist
Bravura Piano Competition provides emerging pianists across New South Wales with a meaningful pathway from recorded regional heats to prestigious live performance opportunities. Designed to celebrate artistry, growth and musical achievement, Bravura welcomes pianists from Preparatory level through to AMEB Grade 8.
The Bravura Pathway
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01 - Regional Heats
Submit a recorded performance online. Entries are open from 15 June to 27 September 2026. Every performance is professionally adjudicated.
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02 - Semi-Finals
Selected pianists progress to a live performance at Wentworth Falls School of Arts on Sunday, 25 October 2026.
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03 - Grand Final
Finalists return to the stage on Sunday, 22 November 2026, performing a new piece before our Grand Final adjudicator.
Regional Adjudicator
Barry Walmsley
KCSJ, MMus, BEd, DSCM, AMusA, ATCL, LTCL, LGSMD, MACE, MACEL, FAIM, Hon TCL
Grand Final Adjudicator
Andrew Dunlop
BMus (hons), GradRNCM, MMus, DMA, MBA, HonARNCMHead of Music Staff & Principal Pianist at The Australian Ballet
2026 Competition Dates
REGIONAL ENTRIES CLOSE - 27 SEPTEMBER 2026
REGIONAL RESULTS - 9 OCTOBER 2026
SEMI-FINALS - 25 OCTOBER 2026
GRAND FINAL - 22 NOVEMBER 2026
Competition Divisions
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Preparatory
For pianists performing at an introductory level below Preliminary Grade. A welcoming first step into competition performance.
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Preliminary
For pianists currently performing repertoire at Preliminary Grade level.
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AMEB Grades 1-8
Separate divisions are offered for Grades 1 through 8. Competitors should enter the division that best reflects the level of their chosen repertoire.
Regional Entry Information
Entry fee: $35 per competitor
One piece per entry
Video submission only
Music may be performed from memory or with sheet music
Every entrant receives professional adjudicator feedback and an official Bravura Regional certificate, with selected pianists invited to progress to the live Semi-Finals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can enter Bravura?
Bravura is open to pianists competing in Preparatory, Preliminary and AMEB Grade 1–8 divisions. Competitors should select the division that best reflects the level of their chosen piece.
What does my Regional entry include?
Every Regional entrant receives a professional adjudication report and an official Bravura Regional certificate. Selected pianists will also be invited to progress to the live Semi-Finals on 25 October 2026.
Do I need to perform from memory?
No. Competitors may perform from memory or use sheet music.
Can I submit any piece?
Competitors may select one piece appropriate to their entered division. Performance time limits and full repertoire requirements are outlined in the competition regulations.
How are Regional Heats submitted?
Regional Heats are entered online using a video link. Full filming and submission instructions are provided with the entry requirements.