30/09/2009 [About Yamaha]
The Dudley International Piano Competition is set to scale new heights this year thanks to Yamaha and the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra who have taken the already prestigious competition with a 40 year musical heritage to a significant new level, with increased prizes, the glorious sound of a Yamaha CFIIIS Concert Grand and a spectacular performance by the CBSO that offers a mouth-watering musical treat for discerning classical music lovers.
The biennial event attracts world-class concert pianists from Russia, China, Europe and Great Britain who compete for the coveted Dudley International Piano Competition (DIPC) title. The festival will take place over two weekends in October and this year’s event supported by Yamaha, Dudley Council and Dudley College will present audiences with an outstanding opportunity to hear some of the world’s leading up-and-coming musicians showcase their talent. Past winners include Benjamin Frith, Andrew Wilde, Graham Scott and Paul Lewis who all went on to establish successful musical careers.
Twenty-one pianists will play in the preliminary and semi-final rounds on October 10 and 11 at Dudley College and the three finalists will then get to play a concerto accompanied by the world renowned CBSO in front of an esteemed panel of judges chaired by Gordon Fergus-Thompson at the final, to be held at Dudley Concert Hall on Sunday October 18.
Councillor David Stanley, cabinet member for environment and culture, said,
“Dudley International Piano Competition is a truly hidden gem. There are only four piano competitions held in this country at this level and Dudley is one of them. In the world of concert pianists the Dudley event is a big deal and we are thrilled to host it at Dudley Concert Hall.”
Yamaha Senior Director Mike Ketley stated, “At Yamaha pianos we are delighted to continue and extend our support this year for Dudley International Piano Competition. Yamaha pianos are increasingly the popular choice of the world’s concert pianists and platforms. We look forward to some outstanding performances and working in partnership with the CBSO in what is a highly significant year for the competition.”
John Humphreys, Chairman of Dudley International Piano Festival told us, “The 2009 Competition is notable in two respects; first, the significant involvement of Yamaha Music UK who are generously providing both their superb CFIIIS Concert grand throughout the competition and £5000 prize money. Second, the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, playing for the Finals will become the Orchestra in Residence. This marks a quantum leap for the competition and immediately places the Dudley International Competition at the fore-front of UK competitions.”
For more information contact Phil Parker on 01384 815219 and to book tickets go to www.dipc.org.uk or call 01384 833960.
