In 2010, the Competition started with a special event. All of the jurors were invited to perform for Chopin Foundation members, guests and visiting dignitaries. The special event was hosted by the two non-performing jurors, who served as Masters of Ceremonies. Dr. Mark P. Malkovich, III a pianist and musicologist known for leading the prestigious Newport Music Festival and Robert Sherman, the broadcaster and radio personality best known for his work at WQXR kept the audience quite entertained.