For 30 years, the Honens Competition has been a staple of the Calgary arts scene and is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious international piano competitions in the world. Every year, elite musicians from across the globe gather in the city, vying for international acclaim. In this article on calgary-trend, we explore the history of the competition and its vital role in the cultural fabric of Calgary and Canada.
Esther Honens and the Visionary Roots of the Competition
Inspired by her experience at the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition in Texas, Esther Honens set out to establish a world-class event in her own hometown. In 1991, at the age of 89, she donated $5 million to launch the Esther Honens International Piano Competition Foundation.
The inaugural competition took place from November 13 to 28, 1992. Although Esther’s health was rapidly declining due to Parkinson’s disease, she was able to attend the final concert. She watched her dream become a reality from a private booth at the back of the Jack Singer Concert Hall, passing away just five days after the event concluded.
The Evolution of the Competition
Over the decades, Honens has solidified its global reputation. What truly sets this event apart is its holistic approach to discovering and nurturing young talent. The competition doesn’t just reward technical precision; it places a high value on creativity, communication, and a performer’s ability to truly connect with diverse audiences.
Honens is more than just a contest; it is a suite of programs designed to make exceptional music accessible and relatable to everyone. Through these initiatives, Esther Honens’ legacy continues to thrive, evolving to meet the demands of the modern musical landscape.
The World’s Richest Piano Competition
Honens is recognized as the wealthiest piano competition in the world. As of 2025, the total cash prizes amount to nearly $190,000 CAD, with the total value of all awards reaching approximately $700,000 CAD. Beyond the prize money, the top laureate gains entry into the prestigious Artist Development Program.
This three-year program is needs-based and specifically tailored to each winner. It offers a comprehensive toolkit of opportunities and mentorship. Throughout the program, musicians perform internationally, connect with top artist managers, refine their public speaking skills, and are encouraged to experiment with their artistic identity.
The Competition Process
The journey begins with the selection of 50 quarter-finalists from an international pool of applicants, with rounds held in New York and Germany. The ten most promising pianists then travel to Calgary for the semifinals. Ultimately, three winners are chosen to receive cash awards and access to the career development program, which includes professional management, international orchestral engagements, professional recording sessions, and mentorship.
During the competition, participants collaborate with one another and perform solo recitals featuring their own curated programming. The jury is composed of professional pianists and influential figures from international artist management. Throughout the process, competitors are encouraged to bring their full artistic personalities to the stage.
Since 1998, Honens has been a proud member of the World Federation of International Music Competitions. The competition’s primary sponsor is the legendary American piano manufacturer, Steinway & Sons.
For many years, the Honens Competition has remained one of the most significant events in the world of classical music. Thanks to this platform, the vision of the legendary Esther Honens lives on, opening doors to major global careers for the next generation of talented artists.
