Keyboard Festival offers young pianists opportunities to learn from world-class artists

two people sit at pianos with their backs to the camera

 

UW-River Falls Keyboard Festival offers young pianists opportunities to learn from world-class artists

Oct. 20, 2026 – The University of Wisconsin-River Falls will offer student pianists the chance to learn from accomplished artists and strengthen their musical skills during the UW-River Falls Keyboard Festival, Nov. 13-14 in Abbott Concert Hall in Kleinpell Fine Arts, 420 E. Cascade Ave., River Falls. The event welcomes students in 1st grade through college, parents and teachers to experience engaging workshops, inspiring performances and hands-on learning opportunities that encourage exploration, deepen engagement with keyboard studies and foster artistic and technical growth. Middle and high school pianists can also audition to participate in a master class. 

Peter Mack headshot

Festival participants will learn from featured artists Peter Mack, immediate past president of the Music Teachers National Association, and Mikhail Shilyaev of Trinity Laban Conservatoire in the United Kingdom. Lectures, workshops, master class observations and recitals are open to all registered attendees. 

“The Keyboard Festival is a wonderful opportunity to bring student pianists and music educators together to learn from exceptional artists and from one another,” said Assistant Professor of Music Ivan Konev, one of the festival organizers. “We hope students leave feeling inspired, more confident in their abilities and excited to continue growing as musicians.”

For middle and high school pianists looking to take their experience a step further, special master classes will be offered Saturday, Nov. 14. Students in grades 6-12 may submit an audition video to participate for a small fee. 

Mikhail Shilyaev headshot

Festival registration is open to college students, students in grades 1-12, parents, teachers and others interested in keyboard music. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. Participants should register by Wednesday, Nov. 11. 

The festival is made possible through the generous support of Mary Ella Jerome and the Mary Ella Jerome Family Foundation. For complete festival details, schedule and registration information, visit the UW-River Falls Keyboard Festival website

Photo 1: Guest artist Yakov Kasman coaches a participant in a workshop during the 2025 UW-River Falls Keyboard Festival. This year’s event will take place Nov. 13-14. UWRF photo.

Photo 2: Peter Mack. Contributed photo.

Photo 3: Mikhail Shilyaev. Contributed photo.