The Ruhr Piano Festival is considered by some to be the most important worldwide. Some sixty to seventy concerts and recitals can be experienced every year between May and July. This truly unique event attracts famous and renowned masters from many nations across the globe.

The festival’s concept for diversity is revealed in the variety of music that includes classical and jazz. Newcomers and young artists are also invited to perform as part of the long-term strategy to promote talented individuals. Furthermore, contemporary composers are commissioned to write new works year after year.

One further aspect of the festival concerns attracting children to the piano. This commences at the age of two, continues throughout school ages and integrates diverse social backgrounds.

The desire to make people enthusiastic results in some 60.000 visitors annually. Originally brought into being by the Initiativkreis Ruhr, this is another example of people and places in the region working together.