The Wingate University Agnes and Jim Goldston Piano Competition

Any student from 6th-12th grades in the states of North Carolina or South Carolina is eligible to compete, if they have not already won first place in their respective category.

It will take place at Wingate University's Batte Center Recital Hall on January 20, 2024. We have moved to this winter date due to the scheduling constraints around events at the university.

The competition begins with the middle school contestants at 9 a.m. We will then distribute the middle school awards at 11:00 am or earlier, depending on the number of contestants. The high school category will begin at 11:45 a.m. High school category awards will be presented at the end of the day, at 3 p.m. or earlier, depending on the number of contestants who have entered.

We ask that middle school students present two memorized, contrasting selections; and high school students present three memorized, contrasting selections. There are no other requirements, but we do ask for stylistic variety.

Yes, please bring your original scores with you. It’s okay if they’re marked. There is no need to write in individual measure numbers.

You can park anywhere around the music building on campus, although using the north side of the music building will take you right to the Recital Hall doors.

We will announce the middle school winners after all of the middle school contestants have presented. We will then commence with the high school category, and high school winners will be announced at the end of the day.​

Due to legal and logistical considerations, we ask that no cameras be set up in the recital hall. However, you are permitted to record your own child or student, using a handheld audio-only recording device. Please do not record other contestants without their express knowledge and consent!

Yes! Please arrive early to use our facilities. A university student worker will be on hand to take you to warm-up rooms.

Each middle school student (grade 6-8)  has a maximum of 10 minutes, while each high school student (grade 9-12) has a maximum of 15 minutes. Students are not disqualified if they exceed the time provided, but all students should be aware that judges may ask them to pause and proceed to the next piece, so that a variety of styles can be heard. As much as we would like to hear the entirety of every student’s program, logistical concerns prevent us from doing so.

Middle school winners will be announced after their category ends. High school winners will be announced at the end of the day. If you are not able to stay until the end, we will contact you by email or text to communicate about your award, if applicable.

Yes! Please contact the competition organizer, Dr. Annie Brooks Stankovic, a.brooks@wingate.edu, if you have more questions.