12 contestants have been selected to participate in the 1st New Orleans International Piano Competition for Young Artists this July 19–26. Each pianist will perform a 25-minute program in Semifinal Round I and all 12 will advance to Semifinal Round II, beginning Thursday evening, where they will each present a 15-minute program. Friday evening, 5 finalists will be announced and present a 25-minute performance during the Final Round on Sunday afternoon.