Held within the historic halls of the gilded Salisbury House, the Des Moines Classical Music Festival (Piano 2026) is an excellent opportunity for young pianists to perform within a nurturing and inspiring environment while receiving feedback from world class instructors and adjudicators.

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There are two primary opportunities for participants. First, students aged 13-18 (as of February 22nd, 2026) may compete for the Victor Borge Prize. This prize includes a $1000 award (as well as cash prizes for 2nd prize and essay) and a performance opportunity at the Danish American Museum (more details about this event can be found here). Second, all students (including beginner and intermediate level students) may: participate as performers, recieve feedback from adjudicators and be recognized with participation ribbons (Please review festival repertoire requirements and policies here). All performers, teachers and family are cordially invited to attend a masterclass and lecture given by our celebrated jury members (if you wish to be considered as a performer for the masterclass, please submit materials here).

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The legacy of the Des Moines Classical Music Festival stems from a rich regional appreciation for education in the arts. The festival began in the Des Moines Public School System. Fortunately, after budget cuts closed the festival, this artistic opportunity was revived and flourished with the perseverance of pianist Sophia Ahmad. Now, in its first year with the organization ‘Stretto Arts (LLC), the Des Moines Classical Music Festival is being led by husband-and-wife duo, pianists Dr. Marion Wilkinson Scott and Rosa Villar-Córdova Scott.

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We would like to celebrate the hard work of all student participants and excellent music teachers with this festival! We also give our gratitude to our sponsors: The Historic Salisbury House, West Music and the Danish American Museum (to find out more about these wonderful organizations please click here) for making this event possible. Thank you and we will look forward to beautiful music-making at the Des Moines Classical Music Festival 2026!