25th Anniversary: Invitational & Tribute
WIPAC's 25th anniversary was celebrated as a special invitational event for past winners. Watch the 25th anniversary tribute documentary.
Watch the tribute
Competition About
About
WIPAC
Who Can Compete
Open to non-professional pianists 31 and older from around the world. WIPAC brings serious amateur piano to Washington, DC each year: a space where accomplished amateurs can be heard, judged fairly, and celebrated at the highest level.
The Jury
Each competition is judged by a panel of international concert professionals: pianists and educators of recognized international standing. The jury evaluates artistry, technical command, and musical depth.
Press & Recognition
Reviewed by the Washington Post, including Pulitzer Prize-winning critic Tim Page. Also covered by FestivalDC.com and the Georgetowner. Competitors have come from four continents.
Current Season
Competition Details
23rd Annual WIPAC Competition
Dates August 5–9, 2026
Location Washington, DC
Status Dates Confirmed
Announcements
Winners Classic at the Chinese Embassy
The 25th anniversary Winners Classic Circle event at the Chinese Embassy was nothing short of spectacular! Reviews by Henri and Lisa Polgar at Festival-DC.com.
Read the reviewThe Story Behind WIPAC
A profile of WIPAC and its founder Chateau Gardecki, as written by DiplomaticWatch.com.
Read the story Our Mission
More than two decades of competition. Competitors from four continents. Judged each year by active concert professionals.
WIPAC was founded in 2001 in Washington, DC, and has held its competition — the first of its kind in the United States — since 2002. The premise has not changed: accomplished non-professional pianists deserve a serious stage, a rigorous jury, and an audience that understands the work.
Read our mission
Connect Stay