Program Overview

Introduction to the David D. Dubois Piano Festival and Competition

The David D. Dubois Piano Festival and Competition is an annual event held at Bowling Green State University, aimed at supporting student pianists at various levels. The competition provides scholarship opportunities for high school students to attend BGSU, encourages undergraduate piano students to develop innovative programming ideas for outreach projects, and supports current piano students to participate in music festivals around the world.

Eligibility

The competition is open to classically-trained pianists in grades 8-12, aged 18 or under at the time of the competition.

Prizes

The prizes awarded include:

• 1st Prize: $3,000
• 2nd Prize: $2,000
• 3rd Prize: $1,000 Additional scholarships may be awarded to seniors who successfully complete the application process for undergraduate study in BGSU's piano program. Judges' decisions on all prizes and scholarships are final.

Application

The application process involves filling out a form and submitting it by January 7, 2026, along with a $25 application fee. Applicants must also email the following by January 7, 2026:

• Proof of date of birth
• Photo (high-resolution jpg)
• Bio (100-150 words in paragraph form)
• A link to a pre-screening video recording of one piece from the competition repertoire
• Release Form

Repertoire Requirements

The repertoire should include selections from at least three of the following style periods: Baroque, Classical, Romantic, Contemporary. One movement from a Classical sonata must be included. All works must be memorized, with the exception of those written after 1945. Students should aim for a program 20-30 minutes in length.

Notification

Semi-finalists will be notified via email on January 9th.

Schedule

The 2026 schedule includes:

• Friday, January 30: Guest Artist Master Class with Greg Anderson, Q & A session
• Saturday, January 31: Competition Semifinal Round, Finalists announced, Guest Artist Piano Recital
• Sunday, February 1: Competition Final Round, Awards Presentation

COVID-19 Protocols

BGSU will follow guidance from the Wood County Health Department, and individuals may choose to wear face coverings at any time.

History

The David D. Dubois Piano Competition was established in 2008 by the David D. Dubois Trust to enhance the piano program in the College of Musical Arts at Bowling Green State University. Dr. David D. Dubois was an internationally-recognized consultant, author, and speaker with a love of music and a special passion for piano and organ performance. The competition celebrates his life and passion for music, and the College of Musical Arts gratefully acknowledges the David D. Dubois Foundation for making this exciting program possible.