Master the Fundamentals. Perform Under Pressure.

The Piano Playoffs is where technique and literacy meet competition.

Now in its third year, the Piano Playoffs (formerly Piano Olympics) is a unique music festival that brings students together from across Calgary and the surrounding area for a dynamic blend of challenge, collaboration, and individual excellence.

Event Details

Location (Briefing + Event): Michael Lipnicki Fine Pianos
Mandatory Briefing: Sunday, April 19 | 6:00–7:00 PM
Event Date: Sunday, May 3

At the mandatory briefing, students will:

Learn the full event structure and scoring system
Understand expectations for both team and individual events and be placed in technique teams
Be introduced to the technical requirements for their level
Receive their quick study piece for independent study

Technique requirements are based on RCM standards, with an added twist—creative challenges at each level designed to make the competition more engaging and fun!

If you are unable to attend the event in person, a live stream will be available.

Event Schedule

Students will compete in assigned time blocks based on their level. Historically, the events are typically 45 to 75 minutes, depending on the number of participants.

Levels 1–2: 10:00 AM
Levels 3–4: 12:00 PM
Levels 5–6: 2:00 PM
Levels 7–8: 4:00 PM
Levels 9–10: 6:00 PM

Event Categories

Team Events (Technique-Focused)

Points are accumulated collectively, emphasizing precision, consistency, and teamwork:

Scales (all levels)
Chords (all levels)
Arpeggios (level 4 and up)
Hanon exercises

Individual Events (Musicianship & Application)

Students are evaluated on their personal performance and musical understanding:

Sight-Reading — real-time musical interpretation of rhythm and short musical passages
Quick Studies — learn and perform a short piece with two weeks of preparation