A Festival with a Difference
When I spoke with my friend and colleague Marina Petrov about the Around the Globe International Music Festival (AGIMF) 2025, I was reminded why this event is so special. Marina, a pianist, teacher and the driving force behind the festival, has created something rare: a space where musicians of all ages and abilities can perform, create, and feel part of a genuinely international community.
Watch The Video Below
More than One Competition
What struck me in our conversation was the sheer variety of opportunities on offer. The festival isn’t just one competition but four — piano performance, composition, accordion, and even a young musicologist category for students writing about contemporary or jazz composers. For pianists, categories range from recital programmes to set pieces chosen from a fascinating library of contemporary works, with options for every stage of learning.
My Experience as Adjudicator
Last year, as one of the adjudicators, I saw first-hand how far the reach of AGIMF extends. Performers came from as far afield as India, Serbia, Holland and New Zealand. The standard was high, yes, but what I valued most was the feedback process. Players left not only with results but with guidance they could take into their next stage of learning.
A Place for Beginners and Professionals
And importantly, this isn’t a festival only for advanced pianists. If you’re a late beginner — even around Grade 1 level — there’s a place for you here. From short pieces to extended recitals, the structure allows everyone to participate, whether you’re preparing Chopin’s Fantaisie-Impromptu or polishing a Grade 3 exam piece.
Key Dates and How to Enter
Entries open on 1st September 2025, with the winners’ recital taking place in June 2026 at St Cuthbert’s Church, South Kensington, London. Performances are submitted by video, so geography isn’t a barrier.
If you’re curious, I encourage you to explore the Around the Globe International Music Festival website
As many of you know, my Hey Presto! Piano Method was written with adult beginners and older students in mind. I’ve been motivated by both injury prevention and the desire to keep students engaged from the very start. You can find out more about Hey Presto! here:
Hey Presto! Piano Method Book
And if you’d like structured video lessons with feedback, you can explore my complete online course: Adult Piano Beginners Online Course
Continue the Journey Together
If you’d like to connect with other learners, share experiences, and pick up weekly ideas, you’re warmly invited to join my Adult Piano Beginners Facebook Group — a supportive space for pianists of all levels and styles.
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