Terms and Conditions
David Hicken’s 2025 Online Piano Competition
By entering this competition, you agree to the following terms and conditions:
1. Eligibility
- The competition is open to pianists of all ages and nationalities.
- No previous competition experience or formal musical training is required.
- Each participant may submit only one entry.
2. Repertoire
- Entrants must choose one piece from the official repertoire lists:
List A (Lower Intermediate), List B (Intermediate), or List C (Advanced). - The chosen piece must be performed in its entirety.
- Substitutions or unauthorized arrangements are not permitted.
3. Entry Fee
- The entry fee is $49 USD per participant and must be paid in full prior to submitting an entry.
- Entry fees are non-refundable, regardless of withdrawal or disqualification.
4. Video Submission
- Performances must be recorded in one continuous, unedited take.
- Both the performer and their hands must be clearly visible throughout the video.
- Videos must be uploaded to YouTube as public or unlisted and titled appropriately (e.g., David Hicken 2025 Competition – Full Name – Piece Title).
- Performances do not need to be memorised; sheet music may be used.
- The use of video or audio enhancement/editing tools is strictly prohibited and will result in disqualification.
5. Submission Process
- All entries must be submitted via the official online entry form, including:
- Full name
- Email address
- Title of piece performed
- YouTube video link
- Proof of payment
- Deadline for submissions is 11:59 PM (local time) on November 1, 2025.
6. Judging and Results
- Performances will be evaluated by David Hicken.
- Judging will be based on musicality, technical accuracy, expression, and overall presentation.
- Judge's decision is final and non-negotiable.
- Winners will be announced on November 7, 2025 via email and the official website.
7. Prizes and Recognition
- Winners may receive awards, certificates, online features, or other forms of recognition (to be announced).
- There is no guarantee of monetary or material prizes unless explicitly stated elsewhere.
8. Permissions and Rights
- By entering, participants grant David Hicken the right to:
- Share, repost, or feature submitted performance videos (with credit) on official platforms.
- Use participant names and photos for promotional purposes related to the competition.
9. Disqualification
- Failure to follow any of these rules may result in disqualification without refund.
- Submissions with inappropriate content, misleading information, or unauthorized modifications will be rejected.
10. Contact and Support
- For questions or technical issues, please send a message.