February 2027 · Texas
Trinity Young Pianist
Showcase 2027
An evening for eight to twelve high school pianists from across Texas. Every performer chooses their own repertoire.
What it is
One evening, done properly
Young musicians who have worked hard at an instrument deserve a real stage, a real audience and a properly produced evening. Not a school hall on a Tuesday.
The Showcase is one evening. Eight to twelve pianists, each playing music they chose themselves, with an intermission and a printed program. Every performer is filmed and photographed, and every performer receives their footage.
Who it is for
- Pianists in grades 9 through 12, studying anywhere in Texas.
- Students of private teachers, school programs, university preparatory departments, or working on their own.
- Repertoire from the standard piano literature: baroque, classical, romantic or jazz.
Taking part
Two ways onto the program
Both routes are read the same way by the same two people. Neither is a shortcut, and a nomination is not an acceptance.
Route one
Teacher nomination
Piano teachers, school music directors and university preparatory faculty can nominate one or two students. It takes a few minutes and we do the rest, contacting the family directly.
Nominate a studentRoute two
Open application
Any eligible student can apply directly with a short performance video. A parent or legal guardian completes and signs the application with the student.
Apply to performSelection
What we listen for
Two members of the Trinity board review every application independently before comparing notes.
- Technical control. Evenness, accuracy, pedaling, tone.
- Musical interpretation. Phrasing, dynamic shape, and a point of view about the piece.
- A piece that suits you. We would far rather hear something you play with confidence than something harder that is not ready.
- Stage readiness. Security from memory, and the composure to keep going after a slip.
- A varied evening. Considered last and across the whole program, never against you.
Dates
Key dates
Applications open
Applications close
Everyone hears back
Dress rehearsal in the hall
The Showcase
Parents and guardians
Every performer is a minor
We correspond with parents, guardians and teachers, never with students directly, and no board member is ever alone with a young person. A guardian signs a consent and release pack, including permission to film, before a place is confirmed. We send it with the offer.
Questions
Frequently asked
Does it cost anything to apply or perform?
No. There is no application fee and no performance fee.
How many pieces, and for how long?
One or two pieces, up to about eight minutes altogether. An approximate length on the application is fine.
Do I have to play from memory?
No. Playing from the score is completely acceptable and will not count against you.
Can I apply without a private teacher?
Yes. The open application route exists precisely for that. You will need a parent or guardian to complete the application with you.
Will there be a master class?
Not at this event. Master classes are planned for later programs, and we would rather do the first evening properly than do three things at once.