Neal S Blaisdell Concert Hall
Ke'alohi International Piano Competition 2025
Overview
The Ke'alohi International Piano Competition returns to Honolulu on August 24, 2025, featuring three world-class finalists competing in a prestigious concerto finals performance with the Hawaiʻi Symphony Orchestra[1][2]. This triennial competition, now in its second edition, showcases the brightest emerging piano talent on the international stage, with over $30,000 in cash prizes awarded to competitors[3]. The event celebrates the meaning of Ke'alohi—the brightest star—discovered through rigorous competition among 15 world-class pianists from around the globe[5].
The Neal S. Blaisdell Concert Hall, Honolulu's premier performing arts venue, hosts this world-class musical event, providing an intimate yet prestigious setting for one of the most significant piano competitions outside traditional classical music capitals[1][3]. The competition represents a remarkable achievement for Hawaii, transforming a state known for hula and ukulele into a destination for elite international classical music[3]. 
Highlights
Triennial World-Class Competition: The Ke'alohi International Piano Competition showcases 15 elite pianists competing across multiple rounds for over $30,000 in cash prizes[3]. Only three finalists advance to perform complete concertos with the Hawaiʻi Symphony Orchestra under conductor Andrew Grams[3].
Orchestral Finals Performance: Finalists perform with the professional Hawaiʻi Symphony Orchestra on August 24, 2025, transforming the competition into a grand classical music event[1][3]. Each finalist performs a complete concerto with full orchestral accompaniment[3].
Cultural Immersion Program: Competing pianists participate in MOCA-led tours highlighting Native Hawaiian culture and the City's Wahi Pana: Storied Places art installations created by local artists[2]. This unique cultural programming helps international competitors understand the deeper context of Hawaii's heritage[2].
Community Access & Education: The Mayor's Office of Culture and the Arts offers complimentary admission to local students from President William McKinley High School, Punahou School, and others[2]. This initiative brings world-class classical music directly to Hawaii's keiki (children) and youth[2].
Emerging Artists Platform: The competition discovers and showcases the brightest emerging piano talent globally, with finalists including competitors from China, Japan, and Russia[2]. Winners gain international exposure and substantial prize recognition[3].
Premier Venue Location: Held at the Neal S. Blaisdell Concert Hall in downtown Honolulu, one of Hawaii's most prestigious performing arts venues[1][3]. The venue's intimate yet acoustically excellent setting provides an ideal environment for both competitors and audiences[3].
Sentiment Analysis
World-class international competition bringing elite pianists to Hawaii
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Cultural integration with Native Hawaiian storytelling and art installations
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Exceptional prize money and opportunity to perform with professional orchestra
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Free admission for local students to inspire the next generation of musicians
Limited performance slots with only three finalists competing in the final round
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Competitors bear full responsibility for arranging and funding their own travel expenses
Know Before You Go
The Ke'alohi International Piano Competition final round takes place at the Neal S. Blaisdell Concert Hall, located at 777 Ward Avenue in Honolulu, Hawaii[1][3]. All rounds of the competition are open to the public[1]. Tickets are available online or through the HSO Box Office by calling (808) 380-7720 (Tuesday–Friday, 10 AM–2 PM)[3]. The final round performance includes one intermission and features three finalists performing complete concertos with the Hawaiʻi Symphony Orchestra[3]. International competitors are responsible for arranging their own flights to Honolulu; Ke'alohi covers airline change fees for contestants advancing to semifinal and final rounds[1]. There are no specific age restrictions mentioned, making this event suitable for all ages interested in classical music[2].
Hot Tip
Arrive early to experience the cultural context of the competition: the MOCA-led Wahi Pana: Storied Places art installations throughout downtown Honolulu help audiences understand the Native Hawaiian stories and significance of the land where this prestigious international competition takes place[2].
Frequently Asked Questions
Location
Meeting Point
Neal S Blaisdell Concert Hall Honolulu HI US
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