The Southern Highlands International Piano Competition (SHIPC) incorporating the original concept and initiative of Ted Springett OAM, has been established to provide an opportunity for pianists from Australia and around the world to further their performance experience and associate with fellow musicians of first-class calibre.

The Southern Highlands of NSW is rich in musical culture and offers a wide range of artistic pursuits. It is an ideal setting for the first International Piano Competition to be staged in a regional area of Australia and will provide a competition which will promote classical pianists in the 18 to 32 age group.

The Board if SHIPC has selected the music amphitheatre at Chevalier College, Bowral and Clubbe Hall at Frensham, Mittagong as the venues for the initial heats and finals of the competition. Both venues have excellent acoustics and visibility. The 65 piece Wollongong Symphony Orchestra has been engaged for the final concerto performances.

The number of competitors will be limited to 40 for the first stage of the competition. 12 competitors will move forward to the semi-finals and 4 to the finals. Total prize money will exceed AUD $40,000.

The first SHIPC will be held during September/October 2007 and thereafter every 2 years. You are cordially invited to participate in this competition.