Art Of Piano 2026 - Classical Piano Residency

Application Deadline December 03, 2025

Program Dates Jun 01, 2026 - Jun 13, 2026

Overview

Learn alongside exceptional guest faculty from around the world, exploring the deep connection between artistic vision and craft. Designed for early-career pianists and aspiring composer–pianists, this program invites you to bring genuine expression and unique perspectives into your music for authentic performances. Work with internationally celebrated artists as you delve into masterworks spanning from historical traditions to contemporary innovations. 
 
This two-week program offers focused time and an inclusive space for engaging discussions and learning with great mentors, reflection, and creation. Find your artistic voice and shape your career trajectory through individual coaching, masterclasses, and performance opportunities.

Description

Define your artistic vision, enhance performance confidence, and advance your career through:  

  • One-on one mentorship, collaboration and masterclasses with internationally renowned faculty: Michelle Cann, Timo Andres, Eric Le Sage, David Kaplan, Tema Blackstone and Joanna MacGregor.
  • Faculty led workshops on the creative process, concert curation and career development.
  • You will learn advanced techniques, personal expression, program creation and more, giving you tools to advance your career.
  • Collaborative performance opportunities with faculty and fellow participants
  • Recordings of public performances for your archival use  
  • 24-hour access to a studio in our Music Facilities
  • Outdoor group activities with faculty and peers, fostering connection and inspiration
  • Engage with other artistic disciplines at concerts and program events
  • Performance opportunities within the broader Banff community

Composer-pianists will be offered additional workshops with esteemed faculty, Timo Andres. 

Requirements

This program is open to:

  • Early career classical pianists
  • Musicians who have recently graduated or are currently enrolled in post-secondary or post-graduate studies
  • A minimum of two spots reserved for aspiring composer–pianists
Deadline
Residency Length
5 days - 6 months
Languages
English
Average Number of Artists in Residence at a Time
15
Collaborative Residency
Must apply and be accepted individually
May apply as a team
Discipline
Acting
Choreography
Dance
Music
Opera
Performance Art
Playwriting
Screenwriting
Symphony
Theater
Companions
N/A
Country of Residence
Open to artists based anywhere in the world
Family Friendly
N/A
Stage of Career
Any stage of career
Additional Expectations/Opportunities
Participate in public programming
Participate in open studio with fellow residents
Give artist talk or presentation
Accessible Housing
ADA Compliant
Partially Accessible (50% or more)
Meals Provided
Some meals (at least 2 meals provided)
Studios/Special Equipment
Performance/Presentation Facilities
Theater
Dance Studio With Sprung Floor
Dance Studio Without Sprung Floor
Piano
Studios/Facilities Accessibility
Partially Accessible (50% or more)
Type of Housing
Private bedroom in a shared housing facility on campus
Additional Eligibility Information

Eligibility

Applicants must be 18+ at the time of the program start date. 

Domestic and international applications are welcome.

Visa Eligibility Information: 

  • Please note that Banff Centre programs do not meet the eligibility requirements for a Canadian Student Visa.
  • If you are accepted into our program, you must obtain a Visitor Visa to enter Canada. Accepted participants are responsible for identifying and complying with the immigration requirements to enter Canada as a visitor from their country of origin. If you require a Visitor Visa please check the current expected processing times well in advance of applying.

Inclusivity Statement

We welcome applicants of all ages (18+), backgrounds, gender identities and expressions to apply. Artists from historically underrepresented and equity deserving groups are especially welcome.

Number of Artists Accepted in Most Current Year
20
Artist Stipend
Travel Stipend/Material Stipends
Residency Fees
5730
Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Fee Details

Total fee before scholarships (tuition, accommodation, and meal plan)

$5 730.90

Tuition amount covered by 100% scholarship, made possible through endowments and donations

$3 276.00

Maximum cost of accommodation and meal plan (including GST) before any additional scholarship is applied (see scholarships section below)

$2 454.90

Application Fee

 

$65 for individuals, $35 for applicants who identify as Indigenous.

This non-refundable fee covers the full cost of processing your application, including the SlideRoom fee.

 

 

Grant/Scholarship/other Funding Support
Grant/Scholarship/Other Funding Support Details

We are pleased to offer scholarships to support participants in our program. Below are details regarding the scholarship amounts and information on how to apply.

  • Scholarship covering 100% of tuition cost is awarded to all arts participants, made possible through endowments and donations.
  • To apply for additional scholarship towards accommodation and a meal plan, please complete the Financial Aid section when uploading your supporting materials. With additional scholarship applied, participants should still expect to pay a minimum of 50% towards their accommodation and a meal plan (refer to amount listed above).
  • Canadian Indigenous scholarship: covers 100% of tuition fees, a meal plan, and accommodation costs.
Application Fee
65
Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Application Type
Open application