This piano competition was conceived by local Kagawans with a passion for music and a dream of creating an event that would inspire young musicians seeking careers on the international stage. To realize this dream, a committee of like-minded people was formed in 2003, and the first Takamatsu International Piano Competition was held in March 2006. This was followed by the second competition in March 2010, the third in March 2014, the fourth in March 2018, and the fifth in February 2023.

Kagawa prefecture has one of the highest rates of enrollment in university-level music programs in the country. This, coupled with the high piano penetration rate, demonstrates the local passion for music education. The hosting of a regular international piano competition that gathers outstanding musicians from around the world cannot fail to inspire the local people and particularly the younger generations.

Held in Takamatsu City, the prefectural capital, the aim of these ongoing competitions is to expand Kagawa’s circle of international exchange through interaction with internationally competitive musicians, and to contribute to the development of Kagawa’s music culture and help it flourish in our communities.

In addition, the competition is conceived as a vehicle for promoting Takamatsu City and Kagawa Prefecture as ideal sites for hosting international music events to discover young musical talent and to promote Sunport Hall Takamatsu as a base for culture and the arts.

In keeping with our motto, “Shared Dreams, Shared Emotions”, and in collaboration with all those involved, we will continue to nurture and develop this piano competition.