Orléans International Piano Competition

The Orléans International Piano Competition: Excellence in Contemporary Music

Founded in 1994 by pianist and pedagogue Françoise Thinat, the Orléans International Piano Competition (OCI) has established itself as a global benchmark in the field of contemporary piano music. It is the only piano competition in the world dedicated exclusively to the repertoire of the 20th and 21st centuries, covering the period from 1900 to the present day.

A Unique and Innovative Format

The adult competition is held every two years, in even-numbered years, alternating with the junior competition "Brin d'herbe" created in 2004 for young pianists. Candidates, selected from dozens of nationalities, perform a demanding program structured around three axes: historical repertoire of the 20th century, contemporary works, and a specially commissioned compulsory work by an internationally renowned composer. Composers who have received commissions include Pascal Dusapin, Philippe Manoury, Thierry Escaich, Hèctor Parra, Philippe Hersant, and Bastien David.

An International Competition

Since the 16th edition in 2024, the competition has adopted an innovative format with pre-selections on three continents — in Chicago (Roosevelt University), Shanghai (Shanghai Conservatory), and Europe — before the final rounds in Orléans. The final takes place at the Théâtre d'Orléans with the Ensemble intercontemporain, and the laureates' concert is held at the prestigious Théâtre des Bouffes du Nord in Paris.

Laureates with Remarkable Careers

The competition's list of laureates attests to its international reach. Recent laureates include: Svetlana Andreeva (Ukraine, 1st prize 2024), Leo Gevisser (United Kingdom/South Africa, 2nd prize 2024), Lorenzo Soulès (France, 1st prize 2022), Mikhail Bouzine (Russia, 1st prize 2020), and Maroussia Gentet (France, 1st prize 2018). The competition awards the prestigious Blanche Selva Prize to the first laureate, along with numerous special prizes including the Claude Helffer Prize and the Audience Award.

A Commitment to Transmission and Creation

Beyond the competition, the association Orléans Concours International organizes throughout the year the Matinées du piano (Piano Mornings), concerts by laureates touring the Centre-Val de Loire region, record releases, and the Grand PianO Festival of Orléans. The artistic direction is managed by Isabella Vassilotta.

Venues and Setting

The competition rounds take place in the Salle de l'Institut (388 seats), a romantic hall with remarkable acoustics located within the Conservatoire à rayonnement départemental d'Orléans, 4 place Sainte-Croix. The final is held at the Théâtre d'Orléans, a national stage with three halls (Vitez, Barrault, Touchard), boulevard Pierre Ségelle.