Hastings International Piano

Abstract pattern with beige diagonal and right-angled lines on a black background.

Bringing the world to Hastings.

Abstract geometric pattern with vertical lines, circles, and arrows.
Black image with a large, bold white arrow pointing diagonally from top left to bottom right.

About us

Hastings International Piano is an independent charity that is committed to nurturing musical talent and ensuring that musical opportunities are available to everyone.

Children in blue sweaters performing a choreographed motion with outstretched arms, possibly during a school play or concert, against a dark background.
Close-up of Steinway & Sons piano keys and logo.
Abstract design with beige diagonal lines forming a corner on a black background.

Applications now open for the 2026 competition

In 2024, 19-year-old Curtis Phill Hsu took home the top prize — will you follow in his footsteps?

Person with glasses and curly hair wearing a black shirt, standing in front of a rustic wooden gate with autumn leaves.
Geometric abstract art with circles, stripes, and dots
A person wearing a dark jacket and jeans sitting on a stool against a black background.
Simple green arrow pointing downward and to the right on a black background.

Sir Stephen Hough

World-renowned pianist, composer, and writer, Sir Stephen Hough brings extraordinary artistry and insight to Hastings International Piano as Our Patron.

Our Patron

Our Patron

Latest news and events

Featured
Gala Concert
Event
Gala Concert
Event

2024 prizewinners, Curtis Phill Hsu and Harmony Zhu return to Hastings this September for a concert with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra featuring two undisputed pillars of the Romantic piano repertoire.  

Event
Sounds of Creativity
Learning & Participation
Sounds of Creativity
Learning & Participation

Sounds of Creativity, a free workshop series combining live classical piano with guided creative art sessions, launched this year at the White Rock Theatre. The workshops were designed to harness the therapeutic benefits of music and art and aim to support members of the Hastings community experiencing mental health challenges, social isolation, and a lack of access to cultural activities

Learning & Participation
Picnic Weekend
Event
Picnic Weekend
Event

Four of our previous prizewinners return to Hastings for a very special weekend of events at Fairlight Hall: Curtis Phill Hsu and Harmony Zhu, winner of first and second prize in 2024; Mariamna Sherling, who won third prize in 2022;  and one more pianist is yet to be announced.

Event
Stephen Hough Composes New Test Piece for 2026 Competition
News
Stephen Hough Composes New Test Piece for 2026 Competition
News

We are thrilled that our patron, the world-renowned pianist, Sir Stephen Hough, has agreed to write a test piece for the 2026 competition

News
Design with black downward arrow at right angle on black background

Support the future of classical talent

Help us unlock the keys to a brighter future. Support our charity and help shape the next generation of extraordinary talent.

Man playing piano with emotional expression, reflected in piano lid.
Person playing a Steinway & Sons grand piano on stage.
Black and white pattern featuring horizontal bars and circles arranged in a grid-like structure.

Subscribe to our newsletter

✓ Be the first to hear before events go on sale
✓ Get the latest news from HIP