Iranian-born Amir Farid, 32, a professional pianist, has been friends with Daphne Turnbull, 70, a retired dancer, since he was billeted in her home 10 years ago. At the time, Amir was a contestant in the Australian National Piano Award held each year in Shepparton, Victoria.

BERTA Brozgul’s selection to compete in a prestigious competition was music to her ears.

La Trobe University put on a three day piano show to recognise local piano playing talent - putting us in the music mood the upcoming Award

Brilliant Shepparton launch event - rolling out more than red carpets for the Award . delicious reds, vibrant yellow ribbons, artistic dancing, and precious music played

Around 140 guests travelled to Government House in Melbourne - to hear the music, to meet the pianists, to mingle over delicious morning tea.

To be recognised as the nation’s best, up and coming classical pianist is a title that many performers would relish - and this year 13 finalists are preparing to own it.

This video showcases the finalists from our 2012 competition.

Twelve young musicians will play it out for one of Australia’s richest piano prizes, the internationally-renowned Australian National Piano Award, to be held in Shepparton from 8 to 13 September, 2014.

Daniel de Borah from Victoria is the winner of the Australian National Piano Award for 2012.

As the heat on centre stage has forced the temperature to rise in Shepparton this week during the Australian National Piano Award; so too has the excitement level of all three adjudicators Ian Munro, Betty Vergara Pink and Matthew Kam who have listened to every note played by our 11 finalists over two rounds.