American Pianists Awards Gala Finals

Experience the American Pianists Awards!

IndyStar calls it the “Super Bowl of jazz,” and one of five finalists will win a prize valued over $200,000.

Caelan Cardello, Esteban Castro, Paul Cornish, Thomas Linger and Isaiah J. Thompson will perform one final night after their 13-month competition at the Gala Finals on Saturday April 22 at Hilbert Circle Theatre.

Each finalist will perform new arrangements with the Buselli-Wallarab Jazz Orchestra and accompany three-time Grammy® Award-winning vocalist Cécile McLorin Salvant. Grammy® Award-winning pianist Bill Charlap will emcee.

By virtue of their selection, each finalist has already won a cash prize of $25,000, exceptional performance opportunities and the publicity gained from advancing in the world’s largest jazz competition. Over the last year, all finalists have visited Indianapolis for adjudicated performances at the Jazz Kitchen and community outreach events.