2026 Robert B. Beardsley Piano Prize Competition -Competitor Sign Up

Ruthmere Museum is proud to announce the 2026 Annual Robert B. Beardsley Piano Prize Competition. This competition seeks to discover the next piano virtuoso in the music world.

Preliminary Round: Deadline September 4, 2026

Entrants for the Beardsley Competition are required to prepare a video audition, 8 to 15 minutes long, showcasing two contrasting musical styles or time periods. Video submissions via YouTube links are preferred. Applicants please follow instructions listed in the official rules when submitting your entry. Up to 6 Finalists will be selected.

Finals Round: Live Competition on September 25th, 2026
Finalists will perform 15-20 minutes of music for the judging panel and the general public in the Ruthmere Game Room. Competition performances begin at noon, with individual performance times yet to be determined. Tickets are available to the general public for just $5 per seat. Each Finalist will receive $100. Second place receives $300, and Third place $200.

Grand Prize Winner’s Performance: October 15th, 2026
Competition Winner is required to perform a full one-hour opening concert of the Ruthmere Fall Concert series at 7pm. Grand Prize winner will receive a cash award of $1,000 presented at the concert, and have his or her name displayed alongside the Beardsley Cup on permanent exhibit at Ruthmere.

Click Here for Official Rules

The 2026 Beardsley Piano Prize Competition is sponsored by
Doug Beardsley. Thank you!