WC delegation promotes international piano competition in South Korea
A delegation from Weatherford College recently completed an outreach trip to South
Korea, resulting in the establishment of new institutional partnerships and in-person
auditions to expand the global reach of the Weatherford College International Piano
Competition.
The five-day working trip at the end of October was led by WC President Dr. Tod Allen Farmer and WCIPC Founder/Artist-in-Residence Dr. Hyeyong Song. The delegation also included Dean of Arts Emeritus Duane Durrett, Director of Jazz Studies Fredrick Sanders, and WC Board members Lela Morris and Mary Beth Dennie.
The WC representatives’ goal was to strengthen global music education and recruitment. They completed this task in several ways:
- The delegation formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Woosong College. They also held meetings with two university presidents, three deans and 16 professors across five institutions, including Seoul National University and the Korean National University of Arts.
- Song delivered two lectures on “The Birth and Vision of an International Music Competition,” including one at her alma mater, Ewha Womans University. Song and Sanders collectively led 13 masterclasses for talented young pianists, fostering direct relationships with future competitors.
- The team hosted the WCIPC Korea Audition at Steinway Gallery Seoul, where 48 pianists competed for a spot in the 2026 competition. Pianist Dongjoo Kim was selected to advance directly to the Semifinal Round in Weatherford.
“Though the schedule was demanding, every encounter was filled with gratitude and joy,” Song said. “This journey reminded us once again of the power of music to connect hearts and create lasting bonds. Every moment was filled with purpose, gratitude and music. The impact on Weatherford College as a global institution is truly immeasurable.”
The 2026 Weatherford College International Piano Competition Semifinal and Final Rounds are scheduled for April 10–11, 2026, in Weatherford. The video submission deadline is Feb. 14, 2026. More details can be found here.