One of the leading international piano competitions in the United states, the Hilton Head International Piano Competition operates with a three-year rotation of events; an adult competition for pianist 18 -30 years of age, a young artist competition for pianists 13 – 17 years of age, and a festival – BravoPiano! – which showcases past prize winners and other prominent  keyboard artists performing music ranging from classical to jazz.  The HHIPC, inaugurated by the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra in 1996, draws applicants, artists, and audiences from numerous countries the world over, and many HHIPC artists are now enjoying thriving professional careers. Its mission is to encourage and support excellence in the performance of classical piano music by showcasing the talents of young pianists on the threshold of their careers in competitions adjudicated by internationally acclaimed judges, and to offer additional performance opportunities.