In January 2015, Dublin International Piano Festival & Summer Academy announced President Michael D. Higgins as Patron of the Festival. 

Making the announcement, Rhona Gouldson,  Executive Director, commented: “DIPF is thrilled that President Higgins has agreed to become it’s Patron. The President’s passion for the arts is well known, and we look forward to welcoming him to future performances, as well as the many educational programmes the Festival has created for international students and audiences. DIPF is honored to be associated with President Michael D. Higgins“.