Every year over Memorial Day weekend in Oxford, Mississippi, the World Championship Old-Time Piano Playing Contest is held to provide an opportunity for pianists to compete and learn in a stimulating atmosphere, and to educate people about old-time piano music written prior to 1940. Through the years, the contest has provided more than $70,000 in prize money to more than 500 piano players from across the United States and from five foreign countries. Players in 2025 will participate in three divisions-Regular, Junior & Senior, competing for cash prizes, trophies and medallions. The New Rag Contest, where aspiring composers present their original tunes, will also have its own cash prize and trophy. A variety of other activities include presentations, guest artist performances, silent movies, a youth master class, and after-hours events every night on the Oxford Square.

This is a weekend packed with Ragtime, Tin Pan Alley and Standard tunes played by amazing piano players. You don’t have to play piano to enjoy music that will have your toes tapping. You’ll have the time of your life at the World Championship Old-Time Piano Playing Contest.

Schedule:

9:00 am: Master Class for Junior Contestants with Richard Dowling

Richard Dowling works with three of the contestants from the Junior Division in a public lesson.  You’re sure to learn a lot from this seasoned artist even if you aren’t one of the performers. $15 *included in all-event or day pass.

11:00 am: Service at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church with music by Sue Keller & Bobby van Deusen

1:00 pm: Regular Division Semi-Finals & Finals / Seniors’ Final

Up to 10 Regular Division entrants compete with two selections each in the semi-final round. The field is narrowed down to the top 5 who vie for the crown of 2024 Champion with their one remaining selection. Those who advance from the Senior Division winners play their final round and the winners are announced at the end of the Semi-finals.

Tickets: $25 included in all-event or day pass

Sunday Afterhours @ The Old Henry
 
7:00 pm: Red, White & Blue Finale

It’s sad, but this will be the final time to celebrate with friends before the long journey home.  Come out to The Old Henry and celebrate the service and music of the army, navy, air force, marines and coast guard on this special weekend. If you were in the service, stand up and be recognized for your contribution!  Enjoy one last chance to take in the awesome talent arrayed under one roof! Free Admission for veterans!

Tickets: Not included in all-event or day pass - cover charge $10 at the door

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