The Chopin Academy of Music is delighted to welcome students and families to the 2026–27 academic year, a season filled with exciting milestones, outstanding performance opportunities, and a major new chapter in our Academy’s history.
Following more than two decades of serving the Pacific Northwest, we are especially proud to announce that the Chopin Academy of Music is now open in North Scottsdale, Arizona. Our beautiful new campus extends the Academy’s long-standing tradition of inspirational teaching, artistic excellence, and exceptional performance opportunities to a second community while continuing to strengthen our flagship location in Issaquah, Washington.
The new academic year also marks the return of several hallmark events that distinguish the Chopin Academy experience. Students will once again perform throughout the season in our recital series, beginning with the Forest Ridge Recital on September 20, and will have opportunities to participate in masterclasses, examinations, festivals, and competitions designed to foster long-term artistic growth.
One of the season’s most anticipated events is the Sonare International Piano Competition, taking place September 26–27, 2026, in Seattle’s renowned Benaroya Hall. Formerly known as the Seattle International Piano Competition, Sonare welcomes exceptional young artists, collegiate pianists, and professional performers from around the world. For many students and families, attending these performances is an inspiring and unforgettable musical experience, made even more engaging by the Audience Favorite Award, where attendees help select one of the competition’s top performers.
Looking ahead, we are also thrilled to announce the return of the Academy’s Carnegie Hall Debut Program. On May 14, 2027, selected Chopin Academy students will once again perform on one of the world’s most celebrated concert stages. The Carnegie Debut Program recognizes years of dedication, artistic achievement, and commitment to musical excellence, representing one of the highest honors available to Academy students.
As registration continues for the new academic year, families still have an opportunity to receive Early Registration savings by completing the registration process before the published deadlines. We encourage families who have not yet registered to contact the Academy and secure their place for another extraordinary year of music-making.
Whether joining us in Washington or Arizona, we look forward to welcoming both new and returning students to another inspiring season of artistic discovery, meaningful performance experiences, and a lifelong love of classical music.
