Ruth Ascher Piano Masterclass 2026
Founded with a generous bequest from Ruth Ascher (1913–2010), a much-loved pianist and teacher. Since its inception, 9 masterclasses have supported 29 young pianists, including 11 who have returned multiple times.
We are delighted to announce the tenth Masterclass in the series, supported by the European Piano Teachers Association (EPTA UK) and sponsored by The Berkshire Music Trust. This is a fantastic opportunity for young piano students of any grade to perform in front of an audience and be coached by the internationally recognised pianist and piano teacher, Anthony Williams.
As a player, this masterclass is perfect to boost your skills and confidence, learn new techniques, and is a great opportunity to perform. As a member of the audience, whatever your musical taste and skills, you’ll get a rare insight into how great performances at any level are made, and how to listen to the music.
Applications are invited from piano students aged 18 years or younger to participate in the Masterclass. There is no minimum grade requirement; we welcome all confident performers from early learners to experienced and advanced pianists.
All we ask is that participants …
- are confident, fluent and musical performers, able to cope with the pressure of a public performance
- can offer a choice of two contrasting pieces of repertoire for us to achieve a balanced programme on the day
Numbers of participants are limited, so if we are over-subscribed then other factors, such as their recent achievements or (at advanced level) the likelihood of them pursuing a career in music may be taken into account.
All applications should be accompanied by a letter of recommendation from the applicant’s piano teacher confirming their suitability for the masterclass and providing us with any other relevant information. This information may be sent by mail or emailed and will be treated as a confidential communication between the teacher and the organising committee.
A fee of £25 will be charged, refundable if the application is not accepted. The deadline for receipt of applications is 31 July 2026. All applicants will be offered several complimentary tickets to the masterclass.
All applicants will be notified as soon as possible after 31 July 2026 if they have been selected or not and which piece has been selected to play. Dress at the Masterclass will be optional. To apply, please complete the following application form.
RAPM2026 Student Application Form
We welcome and encourage a well-attended event! If you would like to attend as an audience member, please reserve your spot in advance. While admission is free, we need to know who will be attending for health, safety, and insurance purposes.
Please register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ruth-ascher-piano-masterclass-2026-tickets-1984707762344?aff=ebdssbdestsearch
- When? Sunday 22nd November, 2026
- Time? 2pm- 5.30pm
- Where? Radley College, Radley, Abingdon, OX14 2HR