The promotion and support of classical pianists is a major component in the overall development of senior students and aspiring concert artists.

The Southern Highlands International Piano Competition has been specificallly established to provide a significant performance opportunity for qualified pianists to perform and associate with artists of first class calibre from around the world, and to bring to the Southern Highlands region a professional and memorable experience of classical piano performances.

The Southern Highlands International Piano Competition Inc was established in 2005 by a group of local professional and business people. The project is an initiative of the Southern Highlands Business Chamber which will continue to provide long term support. The Wingecarribee Shire Council, the local Government Authority, is also fully supportive. SHIPC is a not-for-profit organisation.