Pianist-in-Residence

Overview

Every two years, the Festival for Creative Pianists (FCP) selects two Pianists-in-Residence (one for each festival year). Designed to foster a dynamic, mutually beneficial relationship with FCP and its publishing imprint, Abundant Silence (AS), this residency emphasizes professional partnerships with pianists dedicated to new music advocacy and education.

Residency Responsibilities

• Solo Recital: Perform a 60-minute solo recital at the summer festival in Vermont. Additional paid performance opportunities may be arranged separately.

• Educational Workshop: Present a 45–60-minute in-person workshop on creativity at the piano for festival participants.

• New Work Commission & Premiere: Collaborate with an AS composer to commission a new piece (funded by FCP) and premiere it. 

Festival Expectations

• Recital Programming: Repertoire selection for the solo recital is up to the Pianist-in-Residence, provided that at least half of the program features works from the AS catalog, with requirement to perform Abundant Silence Composition Contest winners from 2025-2026 that have not yet been performed at the festival.

• Workshop: Interactive and creative workshop appropriate for intermediate through advanced students and piano teachers.

Compensation, Support & Benefits

• Stipend: $1,000 base award (subject to increase pending grant funding).

• Music Access: $250 voucher for solo piano digital editions in the Abundant Silence catalog (no expiration date) for recital programming and performance.

• Travel & Lodging: Travel reimbursement provided for in-person festival travel expenses (airfare, train, or mileage); lodging provided by local volunteer hosts during the festival.

• Publicity & Promotion: Prominent features and ongoing promotion across FCP and AS websites, social media platforms, and YouTube channels.

Selection & Eligibility

FCP celebrates diversity and welcomes applicants of all backgrounds who are 21 or older and currently reside in the U.S. While open to all adult pianists, preference may be given to candidates with professional experience due to the scope of the role. Pianists currently in degree programs are welcome to apply provided they can fully commit to the responsibilities of the residency.

Selection Criteria

The three criteria below will be considered equally evaluated during the selection process.

• Performance Artistry: Advanced performance ability with an established track record of live stage performance.

• Repertoire Diversity: A strong affinity for contemporary music featuring diverse styles.

• Pedagogical Ideas: Demonstrated passion for music education and creative approaches to engaging pianists of all ages and skill levels.

Selection Process

1. Initial Screening: Comprehensive review of submitted application materials, performance videos, and relevant experience.

2. Finalist Interview: Selected finalists will be invited to a virtual interview prior to the final decision.

FCP Teaching Artist Roster Opportunities

In addition to the Pianist-in-Residence positions, FCP may invite select finalist-tier applicants to join the festival faculty as FCP Teaching Artists. Applicants have the option to opt in or out of consideration for this role during the application process.

Because our finalist pool frequently yields more exceptional artist-educators than our residency slots can accommodate, this pathway enables FCP to build lasting professional relationships with top-tier talent. Finalists who accept an invitation will work alongside world-class Teaching Artists—collaborating in group coaching sessions, presenting educational workshops, and participating in festival performances.

• Selection & Availability: Invitations are extended during the selection process based on annual festival needs and budget availability. Selection is not guaranteed for all finalists or every festival cycle.

• Compensation & Support: Invited Teaching Artists receive a stipend, travel reimbursement, and lodging.

• Expectations: Teaching Artists uphold the same active community engagement expectations as the Pianist-in-Residence throughout the festival.

Application Process

Submit your application by January 3rd, 2027 at 11:59pm for the upcoming two-year cycle. FCP will select two pianists to serve in either 2027 or 2028. Applicants may indicate a year preference during the application process. There is no application fee.

Applications are evaluated by a panel of FCP teaching artists and board members. Candidates not selected in this round are welcome to reapply in future cycles.

To explore past Pianist-in-Residence achievements and activities, check out our blog posts and Instagram accounts below:

Blog Posts

• 2025 Pianist in Residence: Daniel Inamorato Interview

• 2025 Pianist in Residence: Daniel Inamorato — Celebrating His Residency

• 2026 Pianist in Residence: Alexa Stier Interview

Instagram

• Festival for Creative Pianists

• Abundant Silence

Residency Timeline (Example for 2027 Resident)

• November 1, 2026: Application opens.

• January 3rd, 2027 (11:59 PM ET): Application deadline.

• January – Early Spring 2027: Selection process takes place (includes initial screening and virtual finalist interviews).

• By March 1, 2027: Official announcement of the new Pianists-in-Residence.

  • Abundant Silence catalog access begins immediately upon selection to prepare festival programming.

• Early August 2027: In-person festival program in Montpelier, VT (exact dates announced by end of 2026).

  • Pianist-in-Residence presents a 60-minute solo recital and a 45–60-minute workshop.

• Late Summer – Fall 2027: Commissioning process.

  • Pianist-in-Residence selects an AS composer to collaborate with on a brand-new work.

• Winter 2027/Spring 2028: Culmination event (virtual or in-person) to premiere the newly commissioned work.

(A parallel schedule will apply in 2028 for the selected 2028 Resident.)

We look forward to receiving applications from inspiring pianists across the country! If you have any questions about this opportunity or need assistance completing your application, please reach out to us at festivalforcreativepianists@gmail.com.