The Friends of the Brentwood Public Library is proud to present the James Weldon Johnson & J. Rosamond Johnson Piano Competition is an exceptional musical event. This prestigious competition aims to celebrate the rich legacy of James Weldon Johnson and his brother, J. Rosamond Johnson, and cultivate the next generation of pianists, and diversity within the classical and spiritual music landscape.

Mission

Commemorating: Paying tribute to the 125th Anniversary of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” an anthem that has resonated across generations and holds a significant place in American history Empowering: Providing a platform for aspiring young pianists to showcase their talent, passion, and dedication to the art of piano performance. Championing: Advocating for diversity and inclusivity in classical and spiritual music by encouraging participation from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences.

Competition Structure

Eligibility: Open to pianists of all nationalities within the specified age categories. Young Pianists: Ages 7-10 Performance time is limited up to 8 minutes.

Junior Pianists: Ages 11-14 Performance time is limited up to 10 minutes. Senior Pianists: Ages 15-18 Performance time is limited up to 15 minutes.

Submission Format: High-quality video recording of the required repertoire. Repertoire Requirements:

Lift Every Voice and Sing at your age category and your choice of a Classical or Spiritual from your repertoire. Repertoire submissions are limited to 3. Applicants must not edit or enhance video performance in any way. The video must be good enough to see and hear the applicant’s performance. We recommend the recording devices 6-7 ft away from the performer (s). Submit videos in a mp1 video format. Contestants must show an upper or full body and have adequate lighting to see their faces the piano and their full range of motion.

Participants will receive a notable historical certificate for participating and the winner will receive cash prizes. The jury is comprised of noted musical artists from Jacksonville, FL. The jury reserves the right to award a 1st, 2nd, and 3rd prize in each age category. In addition to multiple honorable mentions merit prizes at their discretion.

The results of the jury are final and cannot beverturned. Performance Rubric Categories: Performance: Musical effect, poise, memorization, Interpretation: Dynamics, phrasingstyling/Mood, balancing; Musicianship: feeling for meter, steadiness, tempo, expression, range of dynamics; Accuracy: note accuracy, rhythmic accuracy continuity fluency, dynamics/tempo indications and, Technique: coordination, fingering, tone quality, facility, appropriate touch/pedaling.