Robert Koenig is Artistic Directory for PS International Piano Competition

By Desert Star Staff Palm Springs, CA: “I am so pleased to welcome Robert Koenig as Artistic Director of the Palm Springs International Piano Competition,” (PSipc) says Board of Directors, President Joe Giarrusso. “A classical concert pianist, keyboard professor, chamber music performer, and recording artist, Koenig brings a broad range of talents and skills to the Board. The Board is thrilled to have his expertise and passion as ready resources as we expand our outreach to the local community and enhance our International Piano Competitions. He has a great vision and is the perfect person to take on this artistic mantle and lead us for the next decade.” Longtime Board member and 2022 Competition Producer Dr. Joan RuBane describes Koenig as “one of the most accomplished, experienced, and talented people we could have as an artistic director. He will take our Competition to new heights.”

Currently residing in Santa Barbara, Koenig plans to relocate to the greater Palm Springs area in the next few months. “I am thrilled to join the Palm Springs International Piano Competition as the new Artistic Director. I am honored to be part of an organization that cares so deeply about the future of classical music and music education for our youth and the entire community. I am excited to present a wide array of diverse musical offerings during the 2023-24 season. I look forward to being a part of the vibrant community in the Coachella Valley as PSIPC plans for our next competition cycle in 2025.”

Born in Canada, Koenig fell in love with the piano very early. After high school graduation, he was accepted to the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia, where only the top talent and those paying no tuition get born. Everyone is on a full scholarship.

After touring for several years, Koenig was invited to be a staff pianist at the Juilliard School of Music in New York, where he remained for nearly a decade.

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