JOPLIN, MO (SNS) - The deadline was Jan. 6, 2006. The phone lines had been busy for weeks before that date and email messages had come in continually with last minute inquiries. The last days before the deadline, Priority mail, UPS and FedEx packages continued to arrive from many countries around the world and across the US to the office of the Missouri Southern International Piano Competition at MSSU.

After all the packages are opened and processed, MSIPC officials report that the applicants for the 2006 Missouri Southern International Piano Competition represent the following countries: Argentina, Armenia, Belgium, Canada, Chile, China, Ecuador, Hong Kong, Israel, Japan, Korea, Russia, Serbia, South Africa, Spain, Switzerland, Taiwan, Ukraine, United Kingdom, USA and Uzbekistan. They also come from 25 states across the US.

Each application includes an audition DVD or video tape along with a packet of support materials. The DVD/video tape serves as the preliminary round. It must include repertoire of different periods and styles. Each recording is reviewed by the Selection Jury who has no knowledge of who the applicant is. 15 pianists will be selected for the Junior Division (17 years old and under) and 20 will be selected for the Senior Division (18 to 30 years old). They will be invited to come to Joplin for the semifinal and final rounds of competition at MSSU. Winners will be awarded over $30,000 in total cash prizes in addition to a Carnegie Recital Hall debut for the grand prize winner.

The Selection Jury members are Robert Harris, retired piano professor of MSSU; Gloria Jardon, piano faculty member of MSSU; Robert Ensor, piano faculty member of Crowder College; Elizabeth Kemm, retired faculty member of MSSU, and Vivian León, Competition Director.

The 11th Missouri Southern International Piano Competition will be held April 24- 29, on the campus of Missouri Southern State University. The competition rounds are open to the public and free of charge. Evening concerts are offered to students and seniors at no charge provided a student or senior pass is obtained in advance by calling (417) 625-9755.

The Missouri Southern International Piano Competition is a non profit organization funded by contributions. For information, visit www.mssu.edu/msipc, call (417) 625-9755, or e-mail msipc@mssu.edu.

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