HISTORY
The Nena Wideman Piano Competition, which began in 1950, has been held annually the first weekend of December, at Centenary College-Hurley School of Music.
Outstanding pianists from throughout the United States and foreign countries and from major music schools have been attracted to the Competition. Nationally and Internationally known pianists and conductors are chosen to be judges.
Nena Wideman, a former member of the Centenary College piano faculty, was the guiding spirit of the first competition and continued with unwavering enthusiasm until her death in 1983. In 1982, an Endowment was created by the Shreveport Symphony in honor of Mrs. Wideman and established the permanence of this annual event. Since Mrs. Wideman's death, Dr Lester Senter Wilson has been Executive Director. Maestro John Shenaut, Conductor Emeritus of the Shreveport Symphony and Mrs. Clayton Young have been Co-Chairmen of the Competition.
Additionally, the continuance of the Competition would not have been possible without the loyal help over the years of those businesses and individuals who have supported it as Patrons Friends and Members of the Board. The Wideman Competition, under the umbrella of the Shreveport Symphony Guild, Inc. is exceedingly grateful for the generous support of the Guild. The Wideman Competition strives to promote excellence and encouragement to young pianists as they begin their careers.
