Isabella Vasilotta, artistic director of the Orléans Piano Competition, shares her vision for promoting musical culture globally and highlights the competition's growing international reach.
Isabella Vasilotta’s background and role
Isabella Vasilotta, of Italian origin, has been the artistic director of the International Piano Competition of Orléans for about ten years. Born in Milan, she has lived in Paris for 15 years and studied musicology, composition, and some piano. Her connection to Orléans
Vasilotta describes Orléans as "my adopted city" and has been involved with the competition since taking over from Françoise Thinat at the end of 2015. She views her work with the competition as "an extraordinary adventure." Competition’s growth and standards
The competition has expanded its reach through selections in Chicago, Shanghai, and Frankfurt, enabling the inclusion of more talented pianists. Vasilotta notes the rising level of competition and emphasizes that the jury considers not only technical skill but also investment, musicality, and the desire to transmit contemporary music. Future projects and personal life
The 2026 version of the competition is approaching, and Vasilotta, a young mother of two children aged 1 and 4 years, expresses her passion for working with exceptional artists. She also mentions upcoming projects in Orléans, including the Brin d'herbe competition (22 to 25 April 2027) and the Grand PianO Festival. Global perspective on piano culture
Vasilotta highlights the international perspective on music and the piano, praising Asia's culture oriented towards music while emphasizing Europe's presence in the appreciation of pianists. The piano holds a place of honor in Orléans thanks to the Orléans International Competition and Vasilotta's efforts. Event cancellation and details
The opening concert on Saturday, October 25 is canceled due to security measures related to the RN congress. For more information, visit www.oci-piano.com.
