The Aloha International Piano Academy is the centerpiece of the Festival—an immersive, seven-day program held each June in Honolulu for domestic and international pianists ages 9 and up. For the 2026 Festival, participants study with world-renowned Festival Artists Robert Koenig, Jon Nakamatsu, and Lisa Nakamichi (AIPF’s Founder and Artistic Director), receiving three private lessons with Festival Artists, performing in masterclasses, and appearing in highly anticipated public concert alongside their Festival peers. Designed to elevate music education in Hawaii, the Academy offers exceptional training in a supportive, inspiring environment.

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Dates of the 2026 Festival: June 6-14, 2026 in Honolulu, HI.

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Application Deadline: The application deadline is April 15, 2026 at 11:59pm HST. Only completed applications will be accepted. Applicants will be notified of acceptance by April 30.  ​

 

Entry Requirements & Repertoire: Applicants must be at least 9 years old at the time of application submission. Completed applications must include a video recording via YouTube of two contrasting works of their choice, as well as a high-resolution color image and a bio up to but no more than 150 words. Admission to the Academy is based on this video performance.

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Applicants may also apply to one or more Festival competitions. Please note that repertoire requirements differ by competition, and separate applications and fees are required.

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Video Requirements: Click here. 

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Travel & Lodging: Applicants admitted to the Festival's International Piano Academy are responsible for their own travel and accommodations in Honolulu; lodging recommendations are available upon request.

Practice: Academy participants will be provided daily access to practice rooms at the University of Hawaii Music Department, with a maximum of four hours of practice time per day.​

 

Tuition: US $550​​​​ due upon acceptance.