PÉCS, HUNGARY
To mark this special occasion, Filharmónia Hungary has decided to host the 2026 Franz Liszt International Piano Competition in Pécs, a city internationally recognized as a former European Capital of Culture. The decision reflects both tradition and renewal: honoring Liszt’s enduring legacy while highlighting Pécs’ dynamic cultural identity.
All live rounds of the competition will take place at the renowned Kodály Centre, widely regarded as one of Hungary’s finest acoustic concert halls. Since its opening, the venue has welcomed leading international artists, including violinist Augustin Hadelich, the Verbier Festival Chamber Orchestra, tenor José Cura, and pianist Olga Kern — who also joins the distinguished jury of this year’s competition.
Kodály Centre
By bringing the Franz Liszt International Piano Competition to Pécs, Filharmónia Hungary not only celebrates a significant institutional anniversary but also reinforces its long-standing commitment to nurturing young talent and strengthening Hungary’s presence on the international classical music stage.
The application deadline for the competition is the 15th of April!
More information about the application can be found here
Kodály Centre Concert Hall
COMPETITION SCHEDULE:
FIRST ROUND September 16, 2026
SECOND ROUND September 17, 2026
FINAL ROUNDS September 18-20, 2026
JURY:
Olga Kern (Chair), János Balázs, Barry Douglas, Jan Jiracek von Arnim, György Vashegyi, Lei Meng, Gergely Bogányi
HISTORY OF THE COMPETITION:
It is most likely that we shall never know how Franz Liszt played the piano. According to his contemporaries no one could follow in his footsteps. What is certain is that his personality, unique technique and compositional skills continue to be influential. It is not surprising that the Academy of Music launched the first Franz Liszt International Piano Competition in 1933, led by Ernő Dohnányi, with similar talents to those of Liszt’s. The winner of the first competition was Annie Fischer, one of Dohnányi’s students. The tradition, together with the genius of Liszt is binding, therefore the Franz Liszt International Piano Competition is one of the most prestigious Hungarian and international events. With some of the most famous piano players of the world on the jury, the competition will provide an unforgettable experience for musicians and audience alike. The winner in 2026 may very well follow in the footsteps of Annie Fischer and Franz Liszt.
The Franz Liszt International Piano Competition will take place in Pécs, at the Kodály Centre, from 15 to 20 September 2026.
Filharmonia Hungary is a founding member of the World Federation of International Music Competitions (WFIMC) and the Alink–Argerich Foundation.
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