J. Earl Lee Piano Festival

J. Earl Lee Piano Festival at AU

Join the Augustana University School of Music as it celebrates the legacy of J. Earl Lee through the annual Lee Piano Festival.

2026 Festival Details Coming Soon

J. Earl Lee Piano Festival History

The Augustana University Lee Piano Festival is funded through the generous gifts of Karl O. Lee and his mother, Agnes Lee. The late J. Earl Lee and his deceased wife, Clara Lee, were esteemed Augustana professors emeriti of music and speech, respectively. J. Earl was a professor of music from 1931-91, serving as chair of the music department for 20 years. Clara was a professor of speech from 1952-91. J. Earl helped found the Sioux Falls Community Concert Association in 1935. In 1958, Clara was chosen Debate Coach of the Year by a national speech honorary society. Augustana University is grateful for this support and lasting recognition given to the legacy of J. Earl and Clara Lee.

SoM Pianos

Latest News

Augustana University’s School of Music Hosts 2025 J. Earl Lee Collaborative Piano Festival

The Augustana University School of Music (SoM) is excited to announce its 2025 J. Earl Lee Piano Festival — taking place from Feb. 27 - March 1, on Augustana’s campus. The international competition for young pianists features performances by award-winning pianist Jean-Efflam Bavouzet. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit augie.edu/LeePianoFestival.

Augustana University’s School of Music Hosts 2024 J. Earl Lee Collaborative Piano Festival

The Augustana University School of Music is excited to announce its 2024 J. Earl Lee Piano Festival on Friday, Feb. 23, at Hamre Recital Hall in the Fryxell Humanities Center. As part of the festival, prospective and current Augustana students will have the opportunity to sit in on a masterclass and receive coaching from Grammy-nominated Joyce Yang.

Augustana School of Music Hosts Spring 2023 J. Earl Lee Collaborative Piano Competition

The Augustana University School of Music (SoM) is excited to announce its biannual J. Earl Lee Collaborative Piano Competition on Feb. 17-18, at Hamre Recital Hall in the Fryxell Humanities Center.