The Helen Hopekirk International Festival & Competition for Young Pianists, Organists and Composers is dedicated to celebrating the 170th anniversary of the birth of Helen Hopekirk (1856–1945) — a Scottish pianist, composer, and teacher who left a significant mark on the musical world.

Our mission is to support and inspire young musicians and composers, promote the music of Helen Hopekirk and Scottish cultural heritage, and build bridges between countries and cultures through music.

This competition provides young musicians up to the age of 21 with the opportunity to showcase their talent, explore the rich legacy of Scottish musical traditions, and gain international experience.

• FESTIVAL

18 - 24 May 2026, Glasgow and Edinburgh

The Festival opens with concerts by invited artists and ensembles, followed by a dedicated day marking Helen Hopekirk’s birthday -20 May - and a series of educational events leading into the Competition.

Further details will be made available soon.

• LIVE Piano & Organ Competition (in Edinburgh)

All submissions must be received by April 23, 2026.

Competition days – 22-24 May, 2026

Planned Venue: The Parish Church of St Cuthbert (5 Lothian Rd, Edinburgh EH1 2EP)

• ONLINE Piano, Organ & Composition Competition

Open to international participants.

Video submissions and recordings must be received by August 25, 2026.

Winners will be announced on September 10, 2026.

The composers' winning works will be performed at the concert in Edinburgh in Autumn 2026.

• The Helen Hopekirk Prize Recital: Legacy and New Voices

November 2026, Edinburgh

Planned Venue: The Edinburgh Society of Musicians , The Parish Church of St Cuthbert