American Pianists Awards Gala Finals

The Performance

In the final event of the 2023 American Pianists Awards, five finalists each accompany three-time Grammy® Award-winning vocalist Cécile McLorin Salvant and perform a big band arrangement with the Buselli-Wallarab Jazz Orchestra. Caelan Cardello, Esteban Castro, Paul Cornish, Thomas Linger and Isaiah J. Thompson are competing for the prestigious Cole Porter Fellowship, given every four years to an American jazz pianist at the conclusion of a unique 13-month competition. Each of the five finalists has already won a cash prize of $25,000, exceptional performance opportunities and the publicity gained from advancing in the world’s largest jazz competition. At the end of the evening, one will be named winner of the 2023 American Pianists Awards will receive a prize valued over $200.000.