Comments on: To Compete, or Not to Compete: That is the Question

By: JOHN G

JOHN G — Thu, 31 Mar 2011 19:50:14 +0000

The Washington International Piano Artists Competition in Washington, DC is for pianists who are not professionals (over 31 years of age) and should be entering the competition for the purpose of developing their personal piano artistry, which is as we recommend. Granted, competitions for young up-coming professionals are different, and will attract a different breed. But it seems to me, as one of the founders of the WIPAC Competition and a pianist myself, that the ultimate intention of a musician should ultimately be the same, no matter what kind of competition is considered. It is somewhat unfortunate that at a young age, musicians are in the midst of developing professional aspirations —- and that it is a little bit like buying a lotto ticket — to enter a competition, hoping or expecting to succeed professionally! One of the winners of the WIPAC competition did enter the Van Cliburn competition at an earlier age. He eventually decided to become a professional doctor, and won our competition at a later age. He has always been a perfectionist, enters to win, comes back if to finish the job if he does not. He is highly competitive and knows exactly what he wants to accomplish. But ultimately, what wins a competition is great talent and artistry, well conveyed on a high level. As musicians we strive for that, and that is why competitions are good for us and for our personal artistic development. There really is no other good reason to enter a competition. Cling to a bad reason if you wish, but, when your luck runs out, suffer the disappointment and serious consequences all alone in the deepest parts of your heart. If your reason is for artistic development, just continue working on it for a lifetime, and, if you are a musician, always plan on professional alternatives that you can manage to live on and support a faimly with, while at the same time, developing your personal artistic goals. It is not an unreasonable compromise and comes with many rewards in the longer term.

By: Edna Landau

Edna Landau — Thu, 31 Mar 2011 16:44:19 +0000

Thank you, Jeffrey, for your very helpful comments.

By: Jeffrey Biegel

Jeffrey Biegel — Thu, 10 Mar 2011 15:30:01 +0000

These are very valuable words based on many years of finding and supporting young winners of competitions through Ms. Landau’s managerial concerns. As an artist having made the rounds, I might add that there are other components of value for you to enter–whether you win a prize or not. You are put in a position to commit yourself to reach a goal within yourself–which raises your personal standards as a musician and performer. Many competitions require a compulsory work to be learned specifically for the event–and you might just make a new friend in the composer for that matter if you like the music and the composer. The experience may also open doors to you to other performers to know and respect as new colleagues, and, even if you do not win, the conductor (should you reach the final round with orchestra) might love your playing and call upon you someday regardless of the outcome. Many times, the conductor for the final round may have his/her own thoughts and preferences aside from the jury. There may also be presenters of recital series in the audiences online and in the concert venue–you never know who is out there. Much to gain, less to lose. Good luck!