WESTPORT — MoCA\CT has announced that it is accepting applications for its annual music competition, which attracts premier musicians from around the world.

The deadline to apply for the 2026 Heida Hermanns International Music Competition is June 30th. The finalists will be announced on Aug. 15th, and the final competition will take place at MoCA\CT on Nov. 14th.

The competition is open to pianists between the ages of 18 and 30. The winner receives a $20,000 prize and a solo recital at the museum, while second and third place receive prizes of $10,000 and $5,000, respectively. All finalists also receive complementary meals, lodging, and individual piano practice during their stay in Connecticut.

MoCA\CT says the competition is designed to look beyond mere technical mastery in evaluating finalists. Judges also consider their ability to “program creatively, connect authentically with audiences, and demonstrate the versatile, entrepreneurial skill set essential for a sustainable international career in today’s modern classical music ecosystem.”

For more information on the competition, click here.