2025 GUIDE TO TOP COMPETITIONS
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The 12th Osaka International Chamber Music Competition
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ABOUT THIS COMPETITION
The Osaka International Chamber Music Competition comprises Section I and Section II. Among the many forms of chamber music, the string quartet has been placed in Section I; Section II focuses on piano trio and piano quartet.
MAIN OFFICE
1-3-50 Shiromi, Chuo-ku
Osaka 540-8510 JAPAN
WEBSITE
ELIGIBILITY
The Competition is open to ensembles of all nationalities, whose members were born on or after May 18, 1990.
ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE(S)
Strings
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DETAILS |
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| Travel Covered? | Yes |
| Frequency | Triennial |
| First prize | ¥2.5 million |
| Smallest prize | ¥800,000 |
| Additional prizes | Performances |
| Jury chair(s) | Monika Henschel, violist, Henschel Quartet |
| Additional jurors | Weigang Li, violinist, Shanghai Quartet Kazuki Sawa, violinist, Sawa Quartet Oliver Wille, violinist, Kuss Quartet Mai Motobuchi, violist, former Borromeo String Quartet member Alasdair Tait, cellist, former Belcea Quartet member Sung-Won Yang, cellist, Trio Owon Rieko Aizawa, pianist, Horszowski trio Ichiro Nodaira, pianist, president, Tokyo College of Music |
| Jury size | 6 to 10 |
| Application fee | ¥20,000 |
| Application deadline | October 12, 2025 |
SEMIFINALS (live rounds)
All 2026 events held at Sumitomolife Izumi Hall, Osaka, Japan Section I: May 17, first round; May 19, second round; May 21, third round Section II: May 18, first round; May 20, second round |
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FINALS (live rounds)
All 2026 events held at Sumitomolife Izumi Hall, Osaka, Japan Section I: May 22 Second II: May 22 |
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COMPETITION OPEN TO THE PUBLIC?
| ✔ | Semifinals | ✔ | Semifinals streamed |
| ✔ | Finals | ✔ | Finals streamed |
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PAST COMPETITION WINNERS
2023 Quartetto Indaco, string quartet
2023 Capybara Piano Quartet, piano quartet 2017 Aizuri Quartet, string quartet 2017 Quatuor Zahir, saxophone quartet 2014 Arcadia Quartet, string quartet |
SOCIAL LINKS
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PARKHOUSE AWARD
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Expanded information for
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PianoArts
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ABOUT THIS COMPETITION
PianoArts semifinalists perform competitive solo recitals and partner with Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra violinists and cellists to perform duo recitals. All competitors are required to speak about their music. Finalists perform complete concertos with the MSO. Numerous prizes include PianoArts fellowships and performances for diverse audiences.
MAIN OFFICE
2642 North Summit Ave
Milwaukee, WI 53211 UNITED STATES
WEBSITE
ELIGIBILITY
For pianists, ages 17 to 22 of any nationality, living or studying full time in North America.
ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE(S)
Piano
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DETAILS |
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| Travel Covered? | No |
| Frequency | Biennial |
| First prize | $10,000 to $50,000 |
| Smallest prize | Less than $5,000 |
| Additional prizes | Performances |
| Jury chair(s) | To be announced |
| Additional jurors | To be announced |
| Jury size | 6 to 10 |
| Application fee | $150 |
| Application deadline | January 26, 2026 |
| Application notes | The application requires the submission of a video performance of a concerto and two solos of contrasting periods. |
SEMIFINALS (live rounds)
May 30-31, 2026—piano solo and collaborative recitals, Wisconsin Conservatory of Music, Milwaukee, WI |
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FINALS (live rounds)
June 2, 2026—piano concerto round with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, Bradley Symphony Center, Milwaukee, WI |
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COMPETITION OPEN TO THE PUBLIC?
| ✔ | Semifinals | TBD | Semifinals streamed |
| ✔ | Finals | ✔ | Finals streamed |
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PAST COMPETITION WINNERS
2024 Lucas Amory
2022 Solomon Ge 2016 Aristo Sham 2012 Sahun Hong 1999 Elizabeth Joy Roe |
SOCIAL LINKS
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Plowman Chamber Music Competition
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ABOUT THIS COMPETITION
Since 2006, the Plowman Chamber Music Competition has provided an opportunity for aspiring chamber musicians to perform live in front of an audience and a panel of judges for cash awards totaling over $12,000, including $5,000 Grand Prize and a concert at the Odyssey Chamber Music Series in 2026.
MAIN OFFICE
Plowman Chamber Music Competition
c/o Odyssey Chamber Music Series 1112 East Broadway Columbia, MO 65201-4910 UNITED STATES
WEBSITE
ELIGIBILITY
Open to instrumental ensembles of 3 to 6 players; members must be interested in or already pursuing a career in music. Ensembles with management as of March 2025 are not eligible. The ensemble may not have more than one piano. See here for complete details.
ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE(S)
Piano • Strings • Woodwinds • Brass • Percussion
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DETAILS |
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| Travel Covered? | No |
| Frequency | Biennial |
| First prize | Less than $10,000 |
| Smallest prize | Less than $5,000 |
| Additional prizes | Performances |
| Jury chair(s) | Ida Kavafian, violin |
| Additional jurors | Edward Auer, piano Chien-Kwan Lin, saxophone |
| Jury size | 1 to 5 |
| Application fee | $50 per person; $60 after February 7 |
| Application deadline | February 7, 2025 |
| Application notes | Deadline for late applications, which will include a late fee, is February 14, 2025. |
SEMIFINALS (live rounds)
March 22, 2025—First Baptist Church, Columbia, MO |
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FINALS (live rounds)
March 23, 2025—First Baptist Church, Columbia, MO |
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COMPETITION OPEN TO THE PUBLIC?
| ✔ | Semifinals | ✔ | Semifinals streamed |
| ✔ | Finals | ✔ | Finals streamed |
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PAST COMPETITION WINNERS
2023 Trio Menil
2019 Soma Quartet 2013 Project Fusion 2011 Akropolis Reed Quintet and Aeolus String Quartet (co-grand winners) 2008 Jasper String Quartet |
SOCIAL LINKS
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Princess Astrid International Music Competition
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ABOUT THIS COMPETITION
Established in 1953, this biennial competition hosted by the Trondheim Symfoniorkester & Opera rotates between violin and conducting. Conductors younger than 35 years are eligible for the 2026 competition; 2028 will feature the violin. Candidates from around the world are invited to be assessed by an internationally distinguished jury. Princess Astrid of Norway is royal patron of the competition.
MAIN OFFICE
Kjøpmannsgata 46
Trondheim NORWAY
WEBSITE
ELIGIBILITY
The 2026 competition is open to conductors below 35 years of age at the time of the competition. The candidate must give mandatory information such as name, date of birth, nationality, address and email, as well as upload a CV, biography, artist picture, and two application videos.
ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE(S)
Conducting •
Strings
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DETAILS |
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| Travel Covered? | No |
| Frequency | Biennial |
| First prize | NOK10,000 to 50,000 |
| Smallest prize | Less than NOK5,000 |
| Additional prizes | Performances |
| Jury chair(s) | To be announced |
| Additional jurors | To be announced |
| Jury size | 6 to 10 |
| Application deadline | April 10, 2026 |
SEMIFINALS (live rounds)
Three rounds, all with Trondheim Symfoniorkester & Opera, Olavshallen, Trondheim, Norway |
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FINALS (live rounds)
Public concert with Trondheim Symfoniorkester & Opera, Olavshallen, Trondheim, Norway |
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COMPETITION OPEN TO THE PUBLIC?
| ✔ | Semifinals | ✖ | Semifinals streamed |
| ✔ | Finals | ✔ | Finals streamed |
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PAST COMPETITION WINNERS
2024 Sara Dragan, violin
2022 Alvin Ho, conducting 2021 Yukari Ohno, violin 2018 Yuwon Kim, conducting 2016 Mayumi Kanagawa, violin 2014 Elena Schwarz, conducting 2012 Miriam Helms Ålien, violin 2010 Jie Zhang, piano |
SOCIAL LINKS
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Queen Elisabeth Competition - Belgium
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ABOUT THIS COMPETITION
One of the most demanding and widely publicized international competitions since its creation in 1937, the Queen Elisabeth Competition has established itself as a springboard for young violinists, pianists, singers, and cellists on the threshold of an international career.
MAIN OFFICE
Rue aux Laines 20
1000 Brussels BELGIUM
WEBSITE
ELIGIBILITY
Eligibility is limited to musicians 18 to 30 years old. Note: As the 2020 Piano Competition had to be postponed to 2021, the following cello, voice and violin competitions also have been postponed. As a result, the upper age limit for candidates has been raised by one year, in order not to disadvantage the young musicians preparing for the sessions of 2022 through 2025. From 2026, the normal age limit will apply again.
ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE(S)
Piano • Strings •
Voice
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DETAILS |
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| Travel Covered? | Yes |
| Frequency | Annual |
| First prize | €10,000 to €50,000 |
| Smallest prize | Less than €5,000 |
| Additional prizes | Performances |
| Jury chair(s) | Gilles Ledure |
| Jury size | 11 or more |
| Application deadline | November 26, 2025 |
| Application notes | Cello 2026 application deadline: Wednesday, November 26, 2025, 12 pm Greenwich Mean Time |
SEMIFINALS (live rounds)
Flagey, Brussels, Belgium, first round and semifinals: May 5-17, 2025, Piano 2025; May 4-16, 2026, Cello 2026 |
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FINALS (live rounds)
Centre for Fine Arts, Brussels, Belgium: May 26-31, 2025, Piano 2025; May 25-30, 2026, Cello 2026 |
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COMPETITION OPEN TO THE PUBLIC?
| ✔ | Semifinals | ✔ | Semifinals streamed |
| ✔ | Finals | ✔ | Finals streamed |
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PAST COMPETITION WINNERS
2024 Dmitry Udovychenko, violin |
SOCIAL LINKS
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Queen Sonja Singing Competition
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ABOUT THIS COMPETITION
Queen Sonja Singing Competition is one of the world’s leading singing competitions that transforms the careers of all participants. The Competition brings together 40 of the best young singers from around the world to compete for its main prizes and to receive coaching, master classes, career development sessions, and international exposure.
MAIN OFFICE
Haakon VIIs gate 2
0161 Oslo NORWAY
WEBSITE
ELIGIBILITY
Singers born in 1993 or later may apply to take part in the 2025 competition.
ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE(S)
Voice
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DETAILS |
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| Travel Covered? | No |
| Frequency | Biennial |
| First prize | €50,000 |
| Smallest prize | Less than €5,000 |
| Additional prizes | Performances |
| Jury chair(s) | To be determined |
| Additional jurors | To be announced |
| Jury size | 6 to 10 |
| Application deadline | April 1, 2025 |
| Application notes | Applications open February 1, 2025. |
SEMIFINALS (live rounds)
June 11-12, 2025—Preliminary rounds will be held live and online; all participants in the preliminary round must provide their own pianist, a suitable room, and the technical equipment needed for their performance. August 17, 2025—Semifinal at the Norwegian Opera & Ballet, Oslo Opera House, Oslo, Norway; each participant performs 1-2 arias and 2-3 Lieder, accompanied by piano. Piano accompanists will be provided by the competition, though candidates can use their own accompanists if they prefer. |
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FINALS (live rounds)
August 22, 2025—Oslo Konserthus, Oslo, Norway; six finalists perform with the Oslo Philharmonic Orchestra from repertoire chosen by the jury from the contestant’s list of arias. Final concert will be live-streamed and distributed via OperaVision. |
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COMPETITION OPEN TO THE PUBLIC?
| ✔ | Semifinals | ✔ | Semifinals streamed |
| ✔ | Finals | ✔ | Finals streamed |
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PAST COMPETITION WINNERS
2023 Jasmin White, United States, contralto
2021 Maria Motolygina, Russia, soprano 2019 Sergey Kaydalov, Russia, baritone 2017 Seungju Mario Bahg, South Korea, tenor 2015 Lise Davidsen, Norway, soprano |
SOCIAL LINKS
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The 18th Arthur Rubinstein International Piano Master Competition
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ABOUT THIS COMPETITION
The Competition will be held April 28 – May 15, 2026. Stage I recitals will be 35-40 minutes; Stage II recitals will be 50-60 minutes. Final stage will consist of three concerts: chamber music, classical concerto, and grand concerto. More than $120,000 in cash prizes will be awarded; hotel accommodations will be free as will partial coverage of flight expenses; a practice piano will be provided in each hotel room.
MAIN OFFICE
9 Bilu Street
Tel Aviv 6522214 ISRAEL
WEBSITE
ELIGIBILITY
Open to pianists of all nationalities; the age range is 18 to 32 years of age
ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE(S)
Piano
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DETAILS |
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| Travel Covered? | Yes |
| Frequency | Triennial |
| First prize | $10,000 to $50,000 |
| Smallest prize | Less than $5,000 |
| Additional prizes | Performances |
| Jury chair(s) | Arie Vardi, pianist, conductor, and piano pedagogue |
| Additional jurors | To be announced |
| Jury size | 11 or more |
| Application fee | $180 |
| Application deadline | August 31, 2025 |
| Application notes | The above application deadline is not final; check website for details. |
SEMIFINALS (live rounds)
2026, Tel Aviv Museum of Art, Tel Aviv, Israel: April 29 - May 4, Stage I: Recitals; May 5-7, Stage II: Recitals |
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FINALS (live rounds)
2026, Tel Aviv, Israel—May 8-9, chamber music, Tel Aviv Museum of Art; May 10-11, classical concerto, Charles Bronfman Auditorium; May 13-14, grand concerto, Charles Bronfman Auditorium |
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COMPETITION OPEN TO THE PUBLIC?
| ✔ | Semifinals | ✔ | Semifinals streamed |
| ✔ | Finals | ✔ | Finals streamed |
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PAST COMPETITION WINNERS
2021 Juan Perez Floristan
2017 Szymon Nehring 2011 Daniil Trifonov, Boris Giltburg 2008 Khatia Buniatishvili 2005 Igor Levitt 2001 Kirill Gerstein 1974 Emanuel Ax |
SOCIAL LINKS
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SCHADT NATIONAL STRING COMPETITION
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Expanded information for
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Schmidt Vocal Competition
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ABOUT THIS COMPETITION
The Schmidt Vocal Competition is a program of Schmidt Vocal Arts held at regional locations across the country. The day-long competition affords singers an opportunity to perform live in front of an audience for the chance to win cash awards/scholarships and attend master class training with premier artists.
MAIN OFFICE
6 East 5th Strreet, Suite 406
Covington, KY 41011 UNITED STATES
WEBSITE
ELIGIBILITY
Participants must be high school sophomores, juniors, or seniors and recommended by a voice or choral teacher.
ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE(S)
Voice
HEALTH & SAFETY
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DETAILS |
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| Travel Covered? | No |
| Frequency | Annual |
| First prize | Less than $10,000 |
| Smallest prize | Less than $5,000 |
| Jury chair(s) | Not provided |
| Jury size | 1 to 5 |
| Application fee | $45 |
| Application notes | Application deadlines are specific to each competition. The application deadline is three weeks before the specified location. See here for specific information. |
FINALS (live rounds)
See here for all competition dates and locations. |
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COMPETITION OPEN TO THE PUBLIC?
| ✔ | Semifinals | TBD | Semifinals streamed |
| ✔ | Finals | TBD | Finals streamed |
SOCIAL LINKS
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Schoenfeld International String Competition
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ABOUT THIS COMPETITION
Schoenfeld International String Competition was founded in 2013 in honor of the violinist Alice Schoenfeld and the cellist Eleonore Schoenfeld, both legendary performers and pedagogues. As a member of WFIMC, the Schoenfeld aims to build a multifaceted platform for gifted violinists, cellists, and chamber music performers all over the world.
MAIN OFFICE
Los Angeles, CA
UNITED STATES
WEBSITE
ELIGIBILITY
The Competition is open to competitors from all nations who are not older than 32 years old.
Previous 1st prize winners' resubmissions will not be accepted.
ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE(S)
Strings • Chamber Music—String Quartet (two violins, viola, cello); Piano Trio (violin, cello, piano); Piano Quartet (violin, viola, cello, piano)
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DETAILS |
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| Travel Covered? | Yes | |
| Frequency | Biennial | |
| First prize | $10,000 to $50,000 | |
| Smallest prize | Less than $5,000 | |
| Additional prizes | Performances | |
| Management | ||
| Jury chair(s) | Pierre Amoyal, violin division; Arto Noras, cello division; Wei He, chamber music division | |
| Additional jurors | Richard Aaron, Dmitri Berlinsky, James Cuddeford, Zhinuo Ding, Anne Gastinel, Xenia Jankovic, Roman Kim, Jennifer Koh, Natalia Pavlutskaya, Shauna Rolston, Vineta Sareika, Alasdair Tait | |
| Jury size | 11 or more | |
| Application fee | No application fee | |
| Application deadline | January 31, 2025 | |
SEMIFINALS (live rounds)
July 11-25, 2025—Harbin, China; violin, cello |
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FINALS (live rounds)
July 25-28, 2025—Harbin, China; violin, cello, chamber music |
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COMPETITION OPEN TO THE PUBLIC?
| ✔ | Semifinals | ✔ | Semifinals streamed |
| ✔ | Finals | ✔ | Finals streamed |
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PAST COMPETITION WINNERS
2013
Jinjoo Cho, violin division Julian Schwarz, cello division Gloucester Quartet, chamber music division 2014 Ji-won Song, violin division Ja-Kyoung Huh, cello division Goldmund Quartet, chamber music division 2016 Andi Zhang & Yun Tang (co-winners), violin division Christoph Croise, cello division Notos Quartet, chamber music division 2018 Lorenz Chen, violin division Zlatomir Fung, cello division Ulysses Quartet, chamber music division 2023 Jungmin Choi, violin division Jérémy Garbarg, cello division Trio Concept - Ex Trio Chagall, chamber music division |
SOCIAL LINKS
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International Chamber Music Competition Franz Schubert and Modern Music
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ABOUT THIS COMPETITION
In addition to special features such as comprehensive feedback from a top-class jury (which is extended during the finals with concert presenters), the competition offers a highlight in the category Lied Duo with its commissioned work—to be performed after 36 hours of study time.
MAIN OFFICE
University of Music and Performing Arts Graz (KUG)
Leonhardstraße 15 A-8010 Graz AUSTRIA
WEBSITE
ELIGIBILITY
Performing musicians: up to 35 years old (born after February 15, 1989)
ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE(S)
Piano • Strings •
Voice
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DETAILS |
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| Travel Covered? | No | |
| Frequency | Triennial | |
| First prize | Less than €10,000 | |
| Smallest prize | Less than €5,000 | |
| Additional prizes | Performances | |
| Management | ||
| Jury chair(s) | Joseph Breinl, lied duo; Chia Chou, piano trio; Sivan Silver-Garburg and Gil Garburg, piano duo | |
| Additional jurors | Lied Duo: Lina Maria ÅKerlund, Iain Burnside, Samuel Hasselhorn, Manuela Kerer, Toby Spence, Pauliina Tukiainen, Sarah Wegener Piano Trio: Vincent Coq, Ellen Margrete FlesjØ, Thomas Hoppe, Anssi Karttunen, Minna Pensola, Isabelle Van Keulen, Katharina Wincor Piano Duo: Carlo Fabiano, Rico Gulda, GöTz Schumacher, Adrienne SoÓS, Arie Vardi, Lena-Lisa WÜStendÖRfer, Shani Diluka |
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| Jury size | 6 to 10 | |
| Application deadline | September 24, 2024 | |
| Application notes | Application deadline has passed; Competition will take place in February 2025 | |
SEMIFINALS (live rounds)
February 10, 2025, piano trio; February 11, 2025, lied duo and piano duo—KUG (Kunstuniversität Graz) Campus, Leonhardstraße 15, Graz, Austria |
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FINALS (live rounds)
February 2, 2025, piano trio; February 13, 2025, lied dui and piano duo—KUG (Kunstuniversität Graz) Campus, Leonhardstraße 15, Graz, Austria |
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COMPETITION OPEN TO THE PUBLIC?
| ✔ | Semifinals | ✔ | Semifinals streamed |
| ✔ | Finals | ✔ | Finals streamed |
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PAST COMPETITION WINNERS
2022 Trio Orelon, piano trio
2018 Simply Quartet, string quartet 2018 Lied: Mikhail Timoshenko, bass-baritone, and Elitsa Desseva, piano 2006 Trio Atos, piano trio 1997 Jerusalem Quartet, string quartet |
SOCIAL LINKS
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Siemens Hallé International Conductors Competition 2026
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ABOUT THIS COMPETITION
Celebrating the innovative and longstanding partnership between The Hallé and Siemens, the winner will become assistant conductor of the Hallé, working alongside Kahchun Wong for a minimum two-year period in a role that represents an invaluable chance to build a career and become established on the world stage.
MAIN OFFICE
Hallé Concerts Society
The Bridgewater Hall, Lower Mosley Street Manchester M1 5HA UNITED KINGDOM
WEBSITE
ELIGIBILITY
Emerging talented conductors with relevant postgraduate study qualifications and experience of conducting professional orchestras; applicants from any country were welcomed to apply.
ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE(S)
Conducting
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DETAILS |
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| Travel Covered? | Yes |
| Frequency | Triennial |
| First prize | £10,000 to £50,000 |
| Smallest prize | Less than £5,000 |
| Additional prizes | Performances |
| Jury chair(s) | Kahchun Wong; principal conductor and artistic advisor, The Hallé |
| Additional jurors | Stephan Frucht, Siemens AG, artistic director, Siemens' Arts Program; David Butcher, chief executive, The Hallé; Anna Hirst; head of artistic planning, The Hallé |
| Jury size | 6 to 10 |
| Application deadline | July 21, 2025 |
| Application notes | Applications will open in March 2025; check website and social media for further announcements. |
SEMIFINALS (live rounds)
At Hallé St. Peters, Manchester, United Kingdom March 29, 2026—Hallé Youth Orchestra Round March 30, 2026—Chamber Ensemble Round |
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FINALS (live rounds)
March 31, 2026—The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester, United Kingdom |
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COMPETITION OPEN TO THE PUBLIC?
| ✖ | Semifinals | ✖ | Semifinals streamed |
| ✔ | Finals | ✖ | Finals streamed |
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PAST COMPETITION WINNERS
2023 Euan Shields
2020 Delyana Lazarova |
SOCIAL LINKS
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The Solti Foundation U.S.
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ABOUT THIS COMPETITION
Honoring the memory of legendary conductor Sir Georg Solti and his dedication to helping young artists. Awards: $30,000 Sir Georg Solti Conducting Award includes door-opening introductions, ongoing professional mentoring, introductions to the Lyric Opera of Chicago and Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and The Solti Foundation U.S. Career Assistance Award (amount varies).
MAIN OFFICE
The Solti Foundation U.S.
1555 Sherman Avenue, Suite 310 Evanston, IL 60201 UNITED STATES
WEBSITE
ELIGIBILITY
Applicants must be: A career-ready artist in the field of conducting; developing a career as a symphonic/operatic conductor; and a citizen or permanent resident of the U.S.; no more than 36 years of age as of January 15, 2021. Applicants must apply for awards.
ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE(S)
Conducting
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DETAILS |
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| Travel Covered? | No |
| Frequency | Annual |
| First prize | $10,000 to $50,000 |
| Jury chair(s) | Elizabeth Buccheri,chair, artistic and awards committee |
| Additional jurors | Duain Wolfe Pamela Bullock David Neely |
| Jury size | 1 to 5 |
| Application fee | $12 |
| Application deadline | January 15, 2025 |
| Application notes | All details for applications for American conductors may be found here. The award is based on professional experience in conducting field and demonstration of advanced conducting technique. Written proposal required for use of the funds (see Application Requirements). |
SEMIFINALS (live rounds)
No live rounds |
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FINALS (live rounds)
No live rounds |
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COMPETITION OPEN TO THE PUBLIC?
✖ Not open to the public
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PAST COMPETITION WINNERS
2024 Francois Lopez-Ferrer
2023 Keitaro Harada 2022 Earl Lee 2021 Gemma New 2020 Aram Demirjian 2019 Yaniv Dinur |
SOCIAL LINKS
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Sphinx Competition
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ABOUT THIS COMPETITION
The Sphinx Competition offers young Black and Latinx classical string players a chance to compete under the guidance of a renowned panel of judges. Its primary goals are to encourage, develop, and recognize classical music talent in the Black and Latino communities.
MAIN OFFICE
2200 Hunt Street, Suite 461
Detroit MI 48207 UNITED STATES
WEBSITE
ELIGIBILITY
The competition is open to all Black and Latinx junior high, high school, and college-age string players residing in the U.S.
ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE(S)
Strings
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DETAILS |
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| Travel Covered? | Yes | |
| Frequency | Annual | |
| First prize | $10,000 to $50,000 | |
| Smallest prize | Less than $5,000 | |
| Additional prizes | Performances | |
| Management | ||
| Jury chair(s) | Not provided | |
| Jury size | 6 to 10 | |
| Application fee | No fee | |
| Application deadline | October 20, 2025 | |
| Application notes | Access application here | |
SEMIFINALS (live rounds)
January 22, 2026—Detroit, MI |
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FINALS (live rounds)
January 24, 2026—Detroit, MI |
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COMPETITION OPEN TO THE PUBLIC?
| ✔ | Semifinals | ✔ | Semifinals streamed |
| ✔ | Finals | ✔ | Finals streamed |
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PAST COMPETITION WINNERS
2024 Nathan Amara, violin, senior division; Ana Isabella España, violin, junior division
2023 Njioma Chinyere Grevious, violin, senior division; Brandon Leonard, cello, junior division 2022 Kebra-Seyoun Charles, bass, senior division; Jonathan Okseniuk, violin, junior division 2021 Samuel Vargas, violin, senior division; Amaryn Olmeda, violin, junior division |
SOCIAL LINKS
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STULBERG
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Expanded information for
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Sydney International Piano Competition
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ABOUT THIS COMPETITION
The next Sydney International Piano Competition will be held over three weeks in July 2027 and involve solo recitals, chamber music rounds, and final rounds with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra at the Sydney Opera House.
MAIN OFFICE
PO Box R104
Royal Exchange NSW 1225 AUSTRALIA
WEBSITE
ELIGIBILITY
Must be 18-32 years of age
ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE(S)
Piano
HEALTH & SAFETY
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DETAILS |
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| Travel Covered? | Yes | |
| Frequency | Quadrennial | |
| First prize | AU$50,000 | |
| Smallest prize | AU$10,000 | |
| Additional prizes | Performances | |
| Management | ||
| Jury chair(s) | Piers Lane | |
| Jury size | 6 to 10 | |
| Application deadline | November 30, 2026 | |
FINALS (live rounds)
July 2027—Sydney Opera House, Sydney, Australia |
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COMPETITION OPEN TO THE PUBLIC?
| ✔ | Semifinals | ✔ | Semifinals streamed |
| ✔ | Finals | ✔ | Finals streamed |
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PAST COMPETITION WINNERS
2023 Jeonghwan Kim
2021 Alexander Gadjiev 2016 Andrey Gugnin 2012 Avan Yu 2008 Konstantin Shamray |
SOCIAL LINKS
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Takamatsu International Piano Competition
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ABOUT THIS COMPETITION
Takamatsu International Piano Competition, held every four years at the seafront with distinguished jury members, aims to nurture young talented pianists. Prize winners receive numerous opportunities to perform in Japan and overseas. Highly acclaimed for its musical quality, it has sent many outstanding pianists into the world.
MAIN OFFICE
Central Tamachi Building 6F
11-5 Tamachi, Takamatsu, Kagawa 760-0053 JAPAN
WEBSITE
ELIGIBILITY
For the 6th Takamatsu International Piano Competition: Individuals born between January 1, 1991, and January 1, 2011
ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE(S)
Piano
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DETAILS |
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| Travel Covered? | Yes |
| Frequency | Quadrennial |
| First prize | ¥3 million |
| Smallest prize | ¥2 million |
| Additional prizes | Performances |
| Jury chair(s) | Susumu Aoyagi, pianist |
| Additional jurors | Vincenzo Balzani, pianist Dang Thai son, pianist Pascal Devoyon, pianist Akiko Ebi, pianist Shinichiro Ikebe, composer Jan Jircek von Arnim, pianist Yoheved Kaplinsky, pianist Daejin Kim, pianist Katarzyna Popowa-Zydroń, pianist Antti Siirala, pianist |
| Jury size | 11 or more |
| Application fee | Entry fee required for participants: ¥20,000 |
| Application deadline | August 20, 2025 |
| Application notes | Access application here |
SEMIFINALS (live rounds)
February 17-18, 2026—Main Hall, Sunport Hall Takamatsu, Takamatsu, Japan |
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FINALS (live rounds)
February 21-22, 2026—Main Hall, Sunport Hall Takamatsu, Takamatsu, Japan
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COMPETITION OPEN TO THE PUBLIC?
| ✔ | Semifinals | ✔ | Semifinals streamed |
| ✔ | Finals | ✔ | Finals streamed |
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PAST COMPETITION WINNERS
2023 Philipp Lynov, Russia
2018 Yasuko Furumi, Japan 2014 Ji-Yeong Mun, South Korea 2010 Alexander Yakovlev, Russia 2006 Pavel Gintov, Ukraine |
SOCIAL LINKS
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Toru Takemitsu Composition Award 2026
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ABOUT THIS COMPETITION
A cash prize of ¥3 million is awarded each year. The judge may withhold the prize. The composers whose works are selected to be performed will be invited to attend.
MAIN OFFICE
3-20-2 Nishi Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku
Tokyo 163-1403 JAPAN
WEBSITE
ELIGIBILITY
Any person, regardless of nationality, who is not over 35 years old at the end of the year the application is submitted.
ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE(S)
Composition
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DETAILS |
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| Travel Covered? | Yes |
| Frequency | Annual |
| First prize | Total prize money: ¥3 million |
| Jury chair(s) | Jörg Widmann, Germany |
| Jury size | 1 to 5 |
| Application fee | No fee |
| Application deadline | September 30, 2025 |
| Application notes | Please submit two copies of the bound score, together with a completed entry form to the following office by the above deadlines. Mailed entries must be received by the above dates. Receipt of entries on the last day will close at 6 pm Japan Standard Time. |
FINALS (live rounds)
July 12, 2026—Tokyo Opera City Concert Hall, Tokyo, Japan |
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COMPETITION OPEN TO THE PUBLIC?
| ✖ | Semifinals | ✖ | Semifinals streamed |
| ✔ | Finals | ✖ | Finals streamed |
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PAST COMPETITION WINNERS
2024
Jingyu Chen, Hong Kong SAR, first prize, Nebula for symphony orchestra Jose Luis Valdivia Arias, Spain, second prize, Al-Zahra (three pieces for orchestra) Giovanni Liguori, Italy, second prize, Hypnos Reminiscenze (oniriche per grande orchestra) Alessandro Adamo, Italy, third prize, Parenthesis |
SOCIAL LINKS
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Telekom Beethoven Competition
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ABOUT THIS COMPETITION
The Competition focuses on works by Beethoven from every phase of his creative life, along with compositions by his predecessors, contemporaries, and successors. Candidates may add works of their choosing to the compulsory program. Next competition will take place December 1-9, 2025.
MAIN OFFICE
c/o Beethovenfest Bonn
Kurt-Schumacher-Strasse 3 53113 Bonn GERMANY
WEBSITE
ELIGIBILITY
Pianists from all nations, as well as stateless persons, who are between 18 and 32 years old at the time of the competition are eligible.
ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE(S)
Piano
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DETAILS |
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| Travel Covered? | Yes |
| Frequency | Biennial |
| First prize | €50,000 |
| Smallest prize | €5,000 to €10,000 |
| Additional prizes | Performances |
| Jury chair(s) | Prof. Pavel Gililov, artistic director and chairman of the jury |
| Jury size | 6 to 10 |
| Application deadline | May 14, 2025 |
| Application notes | The application, including all required documents, must be carried out entirely via our website. |
SEMIFINALS (live rounds)
December 5-10, 2025—Preliminary and semifinal rounds, Telekom Zentrale, Bonn, Germany |
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FINALS (live rounds)
December 12-13, 2025—Chamber music final (December 12), Telekom Zentrale, Bonn, Germany; orchestra final (December 13), Telekom Forum, Bonn, Germany |
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COMPETITION OPEN TO THE PUBLIC?
| ✔ | Semifinals | ✔ | Semifinals streamed |
| ✔ | Finals | ✔ | Finals streamed |
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PAST COMPETITION WINNERS
2023 Caleb Borick
2021 Hans Suh 2019 Cunmo Yin 2017 Alberto Ferro 2015 Filippo Gorini |
SOCIAL LINKS
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Rosalyn Tureck International Bach Competition
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ABOUT THIS COMPETITION
The Eighth TIBC welcomes pianists ages 8 to 28 from the world over who pursue the musical ideals espoused by the late Mme. Rosalyn Tureck. The competition consists of eight categories divided by repertoire difficulty. Competitors may compete in up to three categories and are required to perform a contemporary work.
MAIN OFFICE
23 West 73rd street
New York City, NY10023 UNITED STATES
WEBSITE
ELIGIBILITY
Age 8 to 28 limit, based on eligibility for certain categories.
ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE(S)
Piano
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DETAILS |
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| Travel Covered? | No |
| Frequency | Triennial |
| First prize | Less than $10,000 |
| Smallest prize | Less than $5,000 |
| Additional prizes | Performances |
| Jury chair(s) | To be announced |
| Additional jurors | To be announced |
| Jury size | 1 to 5 |
| Application fee | $180 |
| Application deadline | March 21, 2025 |
| Application notes | Applicants supply link to unedited YouTube video and repertoire intended to be performed. |
SEMIFINALS (live rounds)
April 2025 (exact date to be determined), live on Zoom |
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FINALS (live rounds)
Date and location in New York, NY, to be determined. Gala Winners Concert, date to be determined, DiMenna Center for Classical Music, New York, NY |
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COMPETITION OPEN TO THE PUBLIC?
| TBD | Semifinals | TBD | Semifinals streamed |
| ✔ | Finals | ✔ | Finals streamed |
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PAST COMPETITION WINNERS
2022 Delvan Lin
2017 Tony Yun 2014 Hilda Huangs 2012 Allison To 2008 Phoebe Liang Pan |
SOCIAL LINKS
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Gian Battista Viotti International Music Competition | Vercelli
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ABOUT THIS COMPETITION
The Viotti International Music Competition, established in Vercelli in 1950 by Joseph Robbone, is one of the most prestigious Italian music competitions and its prize winners often reach top artistic careers. It is renowned for its high standard, awards, and prestigious jury.
MAIN OFFICE
Via Monte di Pietà 39
13100 Vercelli ITALY
WEBSITE
ELIGIBILITY
The 75th Gian Battista Viotti International Music Competition 2025 is open to opera singers of all nationalities; age limit is 32 years old.
ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE(S)
Piano • Voice • Violin
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DETAILS |
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| Travel Covered? | No |
| Frequency | Annual |
| First prize | €10,000 to €50,000 |
| Smallest prize | Less than €5,000 |
| Additional prizes | Performances |
| Jury chair(s) | Pietro Borgonovo, artistic director, Viotti Music Competition |
| Jury size | 6 to 10 |
| Application deadline | July 13, 2025 |
SEMIFINALS (live rounds)
October 13-14, 2025—City Theatre of Vercelli, Vercelli, Italy, opera |
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FINALS (live rounds)
October18, 2025—Final with orchestra, City Theatre of Vercelli, Vercelli, Italy |
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COMPETITION OPEN TO THE PUBLIC?
| ✔ | Semifinals | TBD | Semifinals streamed |
| ✔ | Finals | ✔ | Finals streamed |
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PAST COMPETITION WINNERS
2024 Mariam Abouzahra, violin |
SOCIAL LINKS
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RALPH VOTAPEK INTERNATIONAL YOUNG ARTIST PIANO COMPETITION
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Expanded information for
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WASHINGTON INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION
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Expanded information for
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Wideman International Piano Competition
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ABOUT THIS COMPETITION
To encourage and promote young pianist with an opportunity to play with an orchestra, give recitals and win cash prizes. Please visit the website for more information on prizes, winner's recitals and application.
MAIN OFFICE
2900 Wheless Avenue
Shreveport, LA 71104 UNITED STATES
WEBSITE
ELIGIBILITY
18 and not older than 30 years old by December 5, 2025, and must be residents of or studying in North America. See here for complete eligibility requirements.
ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE(S)
Piano
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DETAILS |
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| Travel Covered? | No |
| Frequency | Annual |
| First prize | $10,000 to $50,000 |
| Smallest prize | Less than $5,000 |
| Additional prizes | Performances |
| Jury chair(s) | Alon Goldstein, artistic director |
| Jury size | 1 to 5 |
| Application fee | $150 |
| Application deadline | October 15, 2025 |
SEMIFINALS (live rounds)
December 5-6, 2025—Hurley School of Music, Centenary College, Shreveport, LA |
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FINALS (live rounds)
December 7, 2025—Hurley School of Music, Centenary College, Shreveport, LA |
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COMPETITION OPEN TO THE PUBLIC?
| ✔ | Semifinals | TBD | Semifinals streamed |
| ✔ | Finals | TBD | Finals streamed |
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PAST COMPETITION WINNERS
2023 Ilya Shmukler
2022 Parker Van Ostrand 2021 Zheyu Jiang 2019 Simon Karakulidi 2018 Dominic Muzzi 2017 Yinuo Wang & Mei Li (shared prize) 2016 Tzu-Lin Huang 2015 Aristo Sham |
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WIGMORE HALL INTERNATIONAL SONG COMPETITION
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Expanded information for
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WIGMORE HALL INTERNATIONAL STRING QUARTET COMPETITION
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Expanded information for
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YCA Susan Wadsworth International Auditions
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ABOUT THIS COMPETITION
Young Concert Artists Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to discovering and developing the careers of extraordinary classical musicians. The sole criteria are exceptional musicianship, virtuosity, and individuality. The musicians compete against a standard of excellence, not each other. There is no set number of winners.
MAIN OFFICE
1776 Broadway, Suite 1500
New York, NY 10019 UNITED STATES
WEBSITE
ELIGIBILITY
Applicants at the beginning of a musical career, who offer repertoire within the categories listed, provide two appropriate letters of recommendation, and are not under U.S. management.
ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE(S)
Composition • Piano • Strings • Voice • Brass • Woodwinds • Chamber Ensembles
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DETAILS |
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| Travel Covered? | No | |
| Frequency | Annual | |
| First prize | Less than $10,000 | |
| Smallest prize | Less than $5,000 | |
| Additional prizes | Performances | |
| Management | ||
| Jury chair(s) | Daniel Kellogg, president | |
| Additional jurors | To be announced | |
| Jury size | 11 or more | |
| Application fee | $65 early deadline / $95 final deadline | |
| Application deadline | August 4, 2025 | |
| Application notes | Early deadline: Monday, June 2, 2025; final deadline: Monday, August 4, 2025 | |
SEMIFINALS (live rounds)
October 2025 (exact dates to be announced), New York, NY |
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FINALS (live rounds)
October 2025 (exact dates to be announced), New York, NY |
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COMPETITION OPEN TO THE PUBLIC?
| ✖ | Semifinals | ✖ | Semifinals streamed |
| ✔ | Finals | ✔ | Finals streamed |
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PAST COMPETITION WINNERS
2012 Julia Bullock, soprano
2011 Paul Huang, violin 1997 Jeremy Denk, pianist 1984 Dawn Upshaw, soprano 1982 Carter Brey, cellist 1973 Emanuel Ax, pianist |
SOCIAL LINKS
| ◀◀ competitions home page | ◀ previous |
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