PROGRAM
Piano masterclasses and rotten shark? Sign me up!
Developing artistry, resilience, and connection in Iceland’s capital.
Growing out of our sister festival, Westfjords Piano Festival, we are proud to announce the launch of our inaugural Reykjavík International Piano Festival, taking place August 3-13, 2026, in Reykjavík, Iceland. Expanding the festival’s tradition of world-class concerts, this new program emphasizes both musical excellence and personal growth. Over the course of the week, our four distinguished international professors will lead daily lessons, workshops, and discussions for young pianists and emerging talents. Participants will gain invaluable experience performing in public concerts at Harpa, sharing their artistry with local and international audiences in one of the world’s most prestigious concert venues.
The program goes beyond technical mastery: students will engage in group and personal development activities such as yoga, guided nature walks, and friendly football matches. They will also have the chance to experience the local cuisine. From fresh caught fish to old rotten shark, it is sure to be a unique and enriching experience. These activities foster creativity, resilience, self-confidence, and a sense of community, reflecting the festival’s commitment to nurturing the whole musician.
By combining expert mentorship, public performance opportunities, and holistic development, Reykjavík Pianofest offers a unique experience where artistry and humanity meet.
Private Lessons and Masterclasses
Each participant is offered a minimum of 4 private lessons with the artist faculty. Masterclass opportunities are also available.
Practice Facilities
Each participant is guaranteed 4 hours of practice room availability daily, to ensure ample time to prepare and grow in between lessons and performances.
Outings and Social Activities
Each participant is invited to a variety of outings, such as hiking, walks, sports activities, movie nights, social meals, and bowling.
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Concert Opportunities
Participants are selected to perform on a variety of student concerts, including at Harpa Concert Hall, the quintessential and paramount performance venue in Iceland.
Workshops
A wide variety of inspired workshops, ranging from specialized academic topics such as a detailed foray into the ornamention in classical-era music, to discussions on overall musician's well-being and strategies for conquering performance anxiety. Current workshops (with more to be added):
- Yoga and meditation
- Ornamention in Mozart and Beethoven
- Overcoming performance anxiety
- Boxing, MMA, and Piano
Self-development
Yoga and meditation classes
Calisthenics workouts
TUITION FEES & PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Accepted students are responsible for their own travel, room & board, and other personal costs. The festival is able to help provide discounted rates for housing options walking distance to practice facilities and all activities.
Early-bird application deadline: December 31, 2025
First round of selection decision: January 15, 2026
Early-bird Tuition Fees:
Application deadline: April 30, 2026
Selection decision: May 15, 2026
Tuition Fees:
A few scholarship and work-study opportunities are available, and will be given based on application.
Icelandic residents have access to lower tuition rates due to government grants aimed for Icelandic students.
Registration fees must be paid in full within 2 weeks (14 days) of acceptance.