Ruthmere Museum is proud to announce the 2025 Annual Robert B. Beardsley Piano Prize Competition. This competition seeks to discover the next piano virtuoso in the music world.

RBB Piano Prize 2025 OFFICIAL RULES

Preliminary Round: Deadline August 22nd, 2025 
Entrants for the Beardsley Competition are required to prepare a video audition, 8 to 15 minutes long, showcasing two contrasting musical styles or time periods. Video submissions via YouTube links are preferred.  Applicants please follow instructions listed in the official rules when submitting your entry. Up to 6 Finalists will be selected.

Finals Round: Live Competition on September 20th, 2025
Finalists will perform 15-20 minutes of music for the judging panel and the general public in the Ruthmere Game Room. Competition performances begin at noon, with individual performance times yet to be determined. Tickets are available to the general public for just $5 per seat. Each Finalist will receive $100. Second place receives $300, and Third place $200.

Grand Prize Winner’s Performance: October 16th, 2025
Competition Winner is required to perform a full one-hour opening concert of the Ruthmere Fall Concert series at 7pm. Grand Prize winner will receive a cash award of $1,000 presented at the concert, and have his or her name displayed alongside the Beardsley Cup on permanent exhibit at Ruthmere. 

The 2025 Beardsley Piano Prize Competition is sponsored by Wade Mayberry. Thank you!

2025 Competition Judges:
TBA

The Beardsley Cup, composed of sterling silver and manufactured in 1907 in London, resides in a new custom built display case with the names of the winners of the Beardsley Competition. Please contact Ruthmere Museum at (574) 264-0330 ext. 107 if you have any questions regarding the competition or the entry requirements.