Header image by Sarah Browning
Since its inception in 1979, the American Piano Awards (APA) has grown into one of the most prestigious piano competitions in the country. It not only fosters the careers of young pianists, but also enriches the Indianapolis community through world-class performances. Originally founded in New York as the Beethoven Foundation, the organization relocated to Indianapolis in 1982, establishing its long-standing reputation as a central force in piano artistry.
Under the leadership of Chris Williams, president and CEO, APA has continued to evolve, expanding its reach and impact. The competition, which alternates between classical and jazz categories, has played a vital role in supporting American pianists on the international stage. Through generous financial awards, professional management and an extensive concert schedule, winners receive career-transforming opportunities far beyond the competition.
The 2025 APA competition is already underway, with five extraordinary classical pianists vying for the coveted title.
The five finalists have been carefully selected through a blind audition process, ensuring a level playing field. The process begins with a confidential nomination system through which a select group of experts recommends candidates. Nominees submit their materials, and a distinguished jury listens to audio recordings without knowing the performers’ identities. The top-five musicians advance to the final stage of the competition, where they perform a series of public concerts and adjudicated performances.
This year’s finalists bring a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences:
Elliot Wuu: A New York-based pianist and recent Juilliard graduate, Wuu is a Young Steinway Artist with an impressive resume. His refined technique and expressive playing have already made him a standout performer.
Avery Gagliano: The youngest contestant, Gagliano hails from Philadelphia and is a graduate of the Curtis Institute of Music. She is currently studying in Kronberg, Germany, furthering her artistic development.
Michael Davidman: Based in Madrid, Spain, Davidman’s participation is particularly notable, as he previously competed in APA’s 2021 cycle.
Angie Zhang: A West Coast pianist, Zhang is no stranger to Indianapolis, having previously performed with the Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra. She is also known for her extensive sneaker collection.
Sasha Kasman Laude: A Utah-based pianist and faculty member at Utah State University, she comes from a distinguished musical lineage; her father, Yakov Kasman, was a major competition medalist.
One unique aspect of American Piano Awards is its commitment to community engagement. While many competitions focus solely on performance, APA ensures that its finalists have a deep connection with Indianapolis through outreach programs and immersive experiences. Each finalist spends about a week in Indianapolis, engaging in concerts at Eskenazi Hospital through the Marianne Tobias Music Program, school performances at the Indianapolis Public School system, and collaborations with local musicians and organizations.
This immersive approach allows pianists to hone their performance skills in varied settings and fosters meaningful interactions with the community. The competition’s culmination occurs from March 31 to April 5, with the final performances at the Hilbert Circle Theatre with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra.
Each finalist performs a concert featuring a solo repertoire and a concerto performance with the Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra. The final performances, held at the Hilbert Circle Theatre with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, are a culmination of their hard work and talent. A five-person, world-class jury evaluates the finalists throughout the competition, making the final decision based on a cumulative scoring system. The winner is announced April 5, marking the beginning of a transformative career journey for the winner.
The APA grand prize is not just about prestige; it’s a comprehensive, career-launching package valued at over $200,000, making it one of the most significant awards in piano music. Each of the five finalists receives $25,000, with the grand-prize winner receiving additional funding, a recording contract with the Steinway & Sons label, a national recital and concerto tour, a two-year residency at the University of Indianapolis, a featured performance with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, and public relations and career management support for two years.
This extensive support catapults the winner into the professional music scene, offering opportunities to perform, record and establish a lasting career. American Piano Awards isn’t just about the competition; it’s an organization that operates year-round, presenting concerts and supporting past laureates.
APA presents a concert series between competition cycles featuring past winners and finalists at venues across Indianapolis, such as the Jazz Kitchen, Indiana Landmarks, and the Cabaret. This initiative ensures that the APA community remains engaged and continues to foster musical excellence.
As a nonprofit organization, APA relies on the support of music lovers, donors and volunteers to further its mission. Community members are encouraged to attend the finals, support community concerts, donate, sponsor and volunteer.
Williams says APA offers audiences a transformative experience – a chance to escape into the power of music, even if just for a moment. “It’s amazing that America’s biggest piano competition is right here in Indianapolis,” Williams says. “These performances aren’t just about competition, but about creating moments of beauty and inspiration in a complex world.”
Whether you’re a dedicated classical music fan or simply curious about the world of piano performance, APA is an event worth experiencing. With a talented group of finalists, a strong commitment to community engagement and life-changing opportunities for the winner, the APA continues to set the gold standard for music competitions worldwide.
For more information about tickets, events or ways to support, visit americanpianoawards.org.
