Vivace Prep

July 29 – August 9, 2026 in Wilmington, NC

In accordance with our mission to help develop the next generation of musicians, VivacePrep is designed to help introduce young pianists to the world of international music festivals.

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Welcome to Vivace!

PROGRAM KEY DATES:

Applications Deadline: June 15, 2026
Arrival: Wednesday, July 29, 2026 (Check-in from 4:00pm to 6:00pm)
Departure: Sunday, August 9, 2026 (No festival activities held that day)

Questions? Please contact us at info@vivacemusicfoundation.org

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  • Participants of VivacePrep receive three lessons from the Vivace junior faculty and one lesson with Vivace Artist Faculty; the program will also include studio classes and mentor-guided activities in a non-competitive but motivating environment.
  • Vivace Junior Faculty members are at the beginning of major professional careers, and are among the world’s most talented musicians.
  • VivacePrep Participants have access to all festival concerts, courses, discussions, interviews & more.

VIVACE 2026 Junior FACULTY

To Be Announced!

Application Fees

Application fee: $80 USD
Tuition: $750 USD
Housing (optional): $900 USD
Application fees are non-refundable.

Eligibility

Participants under 18 years of age as of July 30, 2025 are eligible and encouraged to apply.
Advanced students who are residents of Wilmington, NC and State of North Carolina receive priority of admission into the program.
If space allows, the program will also admit exceptionally gifted students under the age of 13.
All participants under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Parents attending the festival with a child must purchase an auditor card.

Lodging

In-person participants may choose to stay at a Vivace hotel, or may find housing on their own.

The official hotel of Vivace Wilmington is the Ballast Hotel. The festival reserves the right to place participants in a neighboring hotel in downtown Wilmington.
All festival hotel rooms are double rooms. You can request a specific roommate or the festival can randomly place you with another participant.
Want a single room? Contact the festival for more information! a child must purchase an auditor card.

Audition Recording Requirements

All applicants must submit a video recording of a maximum of 10 minutes, demonstrating your current playing level. 
Applicants may submit multiple pieces or one piece. 
In consideration of social distancing requirements, piano accompaniment is not required.