International piano competition unites musical tal (Panama City)

Big cultural events happen in Panama. Concerts, competitions and contests in the arts are commonplace. As the country develops its strategy to market as a popular tourist destination, creating a cultural hub (in addition to the financial and transport hubs here) seems fitting. One of these events is an international piano competition.

From October 19 to 26, fourteen pianists from China, Russia, Colombia, Japan, Belorussia, Bulgaria and Albania will compete in the IV International Piano Competition, which will be held in Teatro Nacional in Panama City. Organizers of this competition, the International Concert Foundation, describe the event as “one of the highest level on the world music scene.” Prizes to be distributed total $125,000, first prize being $20,000, second $10,000 and third $5,000.

Music lovers can attend this event beginning at 3:00 p.m. from October 19 to 21 for the elimination rounds. Tickets for elimination events cost $2. Semifinals cost $5, and are from October 22 to 24, at the same hour. The finals will be divided into two parts, at 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. on October 25, tickets can be purchased for $10.

The following day the closing ceremony will be held at 7:30 p.m. with a grand concert by the winner of the competition accompanied by the National Symphonic Orchestra under the direction of Jorge Ledezma Bradley.