 
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
Residency Eligibility
Residency Experience Summary
Application 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.
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.
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.
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Scholarship covering 100% of tuition cost is awarded to all arts participants, made possible through endowments and donations.
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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).
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Canadian Indigenous scholarship: covers 100% of tuition fees, a meal plan, and accommodation costs.