The sixteenth annual Fite Family Young Artists Piano competition is April 1, 2012. Pianists between the ages of 14 and 18 as of April 1 are eligible to compete. All applications must be turned in by March 1. Each entrant submits a high-quality audio recording of two piano pieces in contrasting styles, and semi-finalists perform a 15-20 minute program at Ellis Recital Hall on April 1. Three finalists then play a 25-30 minute program for one of the three prizes: $1,000 for first place, $500 for second place and $250 for third.

The Fite Family competition is adjudicated by Enrico Elisi, from Eastman School of Music, and University professors Peter Collins and Wei-Han Su.

The application deadline is March 1. All applications must include a clearly-labeled audition recording with name of applicant and repertoire, proof of age, a photograph for the program booklet, and a non-refundable check for $25 to the Missouri State University Foundation.

For more information, you may contact Dr. Hye-Jung Hong at HyeJungHong@missouristate.edu or (417) 836-6547. You may also visit the competition website.