In addition to monetary awards, the top prize winner receives access to a career development program that includes concert engagements, a recording, management, and a Banff Centre residency.
[3] In 1991, Esther Honens, a Canadian philanthropist, entrepreneur, and amateur pianist, created a $5 million endowment to host an international piano competition in her hometown of Calgary.
These are then narrowed down to three finalists[7] who complete for a monetary awards and a three-year career development program[8] that includes artist management, international orchestral performances,[9] production of professional recordings, and mentorship opportunities.
[14] Since 2014 the Competition has expanded to include a festival taking place in a variety of indoor and outdoor Calgary venues each year.
[15][16] The Honens Festival and Piano Competition earned a White Hat of the Year award from Tourism Calgary in 2015.