Stella Unica
™
INTERNATIONAL YOUNG ARTIST COMPETITIONS & JUDGED FESTIVAL
PIANO COMPETITION • YOUNG COMPOSERS COMPETITION
Inspiring Young Musicians.
Celebrating Excellence.
Shaping the Future.
November 14, 2026 • Belmont, Massachusetts, USA
November 15, 2026 • Medford, Massachusetts, USA
2026 APPLICATIONS now OPEN
More Than Competitions and a Festival
Stella Unica is a year-round platform supporting the continued artistic growth of young performers and composers.
Our programs and initiatives include:
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Winners’ and Gala Concerts across New England
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Performances of selected works by young composers
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Young Artists Give Back community and benefit concerts
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Teacher Excellence Awards and certificates of recognition for educators
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Masterclasses and webinars with distinguished musicians, composers, and professors
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Creative collaborations with living composers
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Professional recordings, interviews, promotional support, and recommendations for selected laureates
About Stella Unica
Stella Unica is an international platform based in Massachusetts, USA, dedicated to discovering, inspiring, and celebrating outstanding young performers and composers from around the world.
Through international competitions, a non-competitive Judged Festival, concerts, and educational initiatives, Stella Unica encourages artistic excellence, nurtures creativity, and creates meaningful opportunities for musicians at every stage of their development.
Inspiring Young Musicians. Celebrating Creativity and Excellence. Shaping the Future.
Competitions
Stella Unica presents two international competitions for young musicians ages 5–18:
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International Young Artist Piano Competition
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International Young Composers Competition
Young pianists compete in four age divisions.
Young composers may submit original works for piano, voice, solo instruments, and chamber ensembles.
Participants are evaluated by independent international juries of distinguished musicians, composers, and educators. Awards may include cash prizes, trophies, medals, diplomas, Cultural Heritage Awards, Special Composer Awards, and other distinguished honors.
Judged Festival
The Stella Unica Judged Festival is a welcoming, non-competitive performance experience open to musicians of all ages and levels.
The Festival welcomes piano, strings, woodwinds, brass, voice, chamber ensembles, and other classical instruments. Each participant receives professional written feedback, recognition, and an opportunity to perform in a supportive live concert setting.
More than a Competition & Judged Festival
Stella Unica is a year-round platform where young talent is recognized, inspired, and empowered to grow.
Our programs include:
Winners’ Concert Series across New England
Young Artists Give Back community and benefit concerts
Teacher Excellence Awards and professional opportunities for educators
Masterclasses and webinars with distinguished professors
Creative collaborations with living composers
Professional recordings, interviews, promotion, and recommendations for selected laureates
Our mission is to help talented young musicians gain recognition, experience, and new opportunities for artistic growth.
COMPETITIONS
Two prestigious international competitions for young pianists and composers ages 5–18, offering opportunities for artistic growth, professional recognition, and evaluation by independent international juries of distinguished musicians, composers, and educators.
Young pianists compete in four age divisions, while young composers may submit original works for piano, voice, solo instruments, and chamber ensembles. Participants may receive professional written feedback, cash prizes, trophies, medals, diplomas, Special Composer Awards, Cultural Heritage Awards, and other distinguished honors.
📅 November 14, 2026
JUDGED FESTIVAL
A welcoming, non-competitive performance experience open to musicians of all ages and levels.
The Festival welcomes piano, strings, woodwinds, brass, voice, chamber ensembles, and other classical instruments. Each participant receives professional feedback, recognition, and an opportunity to perform in a supportive live concert setting.
📅 November 15, 2026
YOUNG ARTISTS
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Ages 5 - 18
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Four age categories
Created to support emerging pianists through performance opportunities, artistic growth, and connection with a global musical community.
2026 APPLY
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Video submission
Submit your online application and take part in the Stella Unica International Young Artist Piano Competition & Festival.
Why Participate?
Stella Unica was founded to inspire and celebrate the next generation of young artists through excellence, creativity, and meaningful musical experiences.
Global Recognition
Gain visibility on an international stage and build a distinguished musical portfolio.
Expert Feedback
Receive invaluable professional insights from a panel of world-renowned independent judges.
Stage Experience
Unlock exclusive performance opportunities and concert invitations for top-ranking young artists.
Awards & Honors
Earn prestigious certificates, the Crystal Star trophy, and special commemorative awards.
Welcome To Stella Unica
The Stella Unica International Young Artist Piano Competition & Festival celebrates the artistry, dedication, and passion of young musicians from around the world.
The Stella Unica International Young Artist Piano Competition was established to recognize outstanding young pianists and provide meaningful opportunities for artistic growth, performance, and achievement. Through a distinguished jury and a commitment to musical excellence, the competition encourages the next generation of artists to share their voices and pursue their highest potential.
Alongside the competition, the Stella Unica Judged Festival offers a supportive and inspiring performance experience. Designed not as a competition, but as an opportunity for musicians to perform, receive professional feedback, build confidence, and celebrate their musical accomplishments.
Together, the Competition and Festival create a space where young artists can grow, connect, and be recognized for their dedication to music.