The Scottish International Piano Competition is a complete festival of piano-playing of the highest standard featuring young international pianists in competitive rounds climaxing in final chamber and concerto performances with professional musicians and conductor. In addition, masterclasses and recitals by established artists are featured. The next competition will take place in September 2020 – see the homepage for more details.

To become a Patron or Friend of the competition, download and complete the Patrons & Friends Form by clicking here.

Hosts

Some background information about being a Host

As Hospitality Secretary, it is my job to find accommodation for the competitors. The SIPC has always been able to provide places in private houses and this has been appreciated by our young pianists. I am always on the lookout for new hosts and having been a host myself, know how much fun it is.

One of our regular hosts has written the piece below for us and I know she hugely enjoys the experience. And as an unexpected result she had a wonderful holiday in Japan at the invitation of one of her guests, something she might never have done otherwise.

If you would like to know more about being a host contact lizanne.mckerrell@zen.co.uk

 

Jean Reid has been a supporter of the SIPC for some years now and has provided the following information regarding her experience of hosting SIPC competitors:

“Hosting a competitor in the SIPC is a challenge – but a very rewarding one. You have only a few days to welcome a talented stranger into your home, weigh up the need for sustenance and support against a preference for privacy, and provide an appreciative audience in the early stages. You become part of a temporary village, exchanging opinions with other hosts and relishing backstage gossip about the favourites and the judges.

If your protege is not one of the lucky ones who go on to the second stage, you’ll want to be on hand to provide an encouraging send-off but by then you’re likely to be hooked on the personalities of the survivors and will want to see it through to the Final. You’ll get an insight into the dedication needed to become a professional performer, as well as a different culture if your guest comes from afar: you may even be lucky enough to form a lasting friendship and be invited on a return visit to exotic parts. And along the way you’re going to hear some great music-making!“