D FESTIVAL
YOUNG
PIANIST
PROGRAM
2026

D FestivaL
Young PIanist Program

An international piano festival for serious musicians

An intensive 12-day piano festival nurturing young talents through world-class instruction, chamber orchestra collaborations, piano competition, special topic classes, and career-launching opportunities, hosted in the Quanzhou Grand Theatre

Private Lessons

Learn closely from D Festival's esteemed faculty, refining your piano skills and techniques.

concerto Performance

Showcase your talent by performing piano concertos with the D Ensemble or Quartet Daedalus.

D Masters competition

Compete in the 2026 International D Masters Piano Competition for prizes and performance opportunities.

Masterclasses performances

Participate in masterclasses with top pianists and educators to enhance your technique and performance skills.

Discover

More to be expected

D Festival offers diverse activities to accelerate young pianists' growth.

Many Concerts

A wealth of performances by faculty and guest artists

Meet our faculty

Renowned piano faculty committed to your growth.

Curated Programs

Choose between a 7-day or 12-day program, suitable for all skill levels.

Festival activities

Engage in workshops, seminars, studio classes, cultural explorations

Visit THE
D-Gallery

Let's step into the world of D and reminisce about the unforgettable moments from the 2025 D Festival.

Getting started

Three simple steps to join
D Festival

Begin your journey with us in just a few minutes. Select your program, complete your application, and prepare for an unforgettable artistic experience.

Choose your program

Browse our four distinct pathways designed for different experience levels and artistic goals.

Submit your application

Complete the online form with your background, recordings, and artistic statement.

Receive confirmation

Our team reviews your submission and sends acceptance details within two weeks.

Voices from
D Festival
2025

What participants and faculty say:

The organizer demonstrated clear vision and strong passion, and the students were keen and attentive throughout.
Gabriel Kwok
Faculty
"It was a truly fulfilling time—I met inspiring teachers and new friends, enjoyed performing and ensemble opportunities, and had lots of fun throughout there."
Yaxi Li
Two-week Program Participant
I’m honored to participate the D Festival, with professional pianists and teachers’ guidance enriched me a lot, looking forward for the coming festival!
Ray Wong
One-week Program Participant
Instagram

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Key dates

Keep in mind the following important dates and events:

December 25

Applications open

The early-application period for D Festival runs through February 10. Selected applicants will receive a HKD $500 early-bird discount in addition to any merit-based scholarships.

December 30

Applications open (IDPC)

Applications for both Professional & Amateur Categories of the 2026 International D Masters Piano Competition are accepted.

*Please note that the early-bird discount does not apply to IDPC-only applications.

March 18

Amateur category
Applications close (IDPC)

Applications for the Amateur Category of the 2026 International D Masters Piano Competition are closed.

April 4

IDPC Starts (Amateur Category)

Online and live regional First Rounds of the Amateur Category of the 2026 International D Masters Piano Competition starts.

June 20

Professional category
Applications close (IDPC)

Applications for the Professional Category of the 2026 International D Masters Piano Competition are closed.

July 17

12-Day Program starts

D Festival Young Pianist Program (12-Day Program) officially starts

July 17

IDPC Live Rounds Start

Live round quarterfinals, semifinals and finals of both Professional and Amateur Categories of the 2026 International D Masters Piano Competition (IDPC) starts.

July 25

1-Week Program starts

Live round quarterfinals, semifinals and finals of International D Masters Piano Competition (IDPC) starts.

July 28-30

Concerto Gala concerts

During the Concerto Gala concerts, D Festival participants will showcase their artistry by performing piano concertos with either the D Ensemble or Quartet Daedalus.

July 31

D Festival Grand Closing ceremony

D Festival will conclude with a grand ceremony where participants will receive certificates and prizes. The event will feature faculty performances and engaging group activities.

* Please note that these dates are tentative and may change. The D Festival and IDPC committee reserves the right to make adjustments as needed. Participants will receive prompt notification if any changes occur.

FAQs

Common questions about D Festival programs, competition, and participation.

What is the age requirement for each program?

Observer enrollment is open to participants aged 8 and above. The recommended age ranges are 8–17 for the One-Week Program and 17 and above for the 12-Day Program. However, applicants outside these ranges are still welcome to apply; those over 17 can enroll in the One-Week Program, and those under 17 can enroll in the 12-Day Program.

Do I need to submit a video recording with my application?

Yes. All applicants must submit a video recording of at least 15 minutes of repertoire. This helps our selection committee understand your current level.

What is included in the program tuitions?

Program tuition covers masterclasses, private lessons, venue access, coaching sessions with Quartet Daedalus and D Ensemble, IDPC fees, seminars, workshops, studio classes, certificates, performance recordings, a cultural day trip in Quanzhou, and all D Festival group activities. Accommodation and meals are not included, but we provide local provider recommendations with exclusive discounts for participants.

Can I upgrade to 12-Day Program after being admitted to the 1-week Program?

Yes. If you wish to upgrade to the 12-Day Program, contact our team to and we will inform you the next steps in terms of paying the tuition difference. Please note that the enrollment is subject to availability as the spots for 12-Day Program are very limited.

Is financial assistance available?

We offer limited scholarships based on artistic merit and financial need. Include a scholarship request with your application and our team will review your circumstances.

Have questions
About D Festival?

Reach out to our AI assistant, Agent D, via the chat widget located at the bottom right corner of the page, or connect by phone using one of the buttons below.