Casio Music UK, one of the world’s most renowned producers of electronic keyboards and digital pianos, has announced a brand new competition – in partnership with global community of music professionals Loop Music – aimed at piano-playing artists called ‘Casio Sessions.’ In this very first event of its kind, the intimate competition will take place on Thursday 21st September 2023 at Casio’s G-SHOCK store in Carnaby Street, London, with one lucky musician chosen to win one of Casio’s multiple award-winning PX-S7000 digital pianos worth £2,249 and £500 cash.
Singer songwriters who play piano across the UK are invited by Casio and Loop Music to enter online by submitting a video audition of themselves playing an original composition – covers will not be considered. After careful deliberation, twelve musicians will be selected to take part in the live final of the competition that will take place in London, at the experiential G-SHOCK store in Carnaby Street. Finalists will perform on Casio’s flagship model from its Privia Series – the PX-S7000.
The multiple award-winning PX-S7000 sets a new standard in digital pianos with a high specification, which includes a newly developed hybrid wooden hammer keyboard and a contemporary look that appeals to a wide range of musicians – enabling them to hit all the right notes. The ability to directly plug in a microphone and make use of the on-board vocal effects makes this the ideal performance instrument for up-and-coming singer-songwriters.
“We’re excited to kick-off Casio Sessions – a competition dedicated to aspiring piano playing song writers across the country. Alongside Loop Music and its community of musicians and creatives, we hope to shine a spotlight on up-and-coming UK based talent. Casio has always been proud to support music making and its benefits across all genres and ages. We can’t wait to discover new talent and see how the competition unfolds.”
Neil Evans, Head of Casio Music UK
The finalists will be judged by Neil Evans and Dan Henry of Casio Music UK and Mohamed A Sawyer and Emmanuel Tchombe of Loop Music and will be scored on various criteria including stage performance and presence. The lucky winner will be revealed on the night after all performances are complete, where they will take home the grand prize of a PX-S7000 in Harmonious Mustard as well as £500 cash. All twelve live finalists will also receive content captured from the Casio Sessions event including professional photography and videography of their performances.
Entries are open now until midnight 30th August, with twelve finalists selected on 4th September. UK-based musicians are required to submit a video audition and complete a simple form via the Casio website to be considered for the live final – all ages and musical styles welcome. The full terms and conditions, including full scoring criteria, can be found here.