George Enescu International Competition

Celebrating young talent, artistic mastery, and a commitment to the legacy of George Enescu

The George Enescu International Competition, based in Bucharest, Romania, is one of the world’s most prestigious classical music competitions, having evolved from its origins to become a major international event. Established in honor of Romania’s beloved composer George Enescu, the competition started as part of the George Enescu Festival, a cultural initiative to celebrate his legacy. Since 2014, it has been held every two years, alternating with the festival, drawing young talents from around the globe to compete in four main sections: violin, cello, piano, and composition.

Since its inception in 1958, the competition has played a significant role in launching the careers of several prominent musicians. Renowned figures such as Romanian pianist Radu Lupu and cellist Zlatomir Fung have won top prizes, securing the competition’s status as a launchpad for world-class talent. Over the years, it has evolved in scope and organization. While the competition was held alongside the festival until 1971, a pause due to political reasons led to its revival in 1991. Since then, it has been growing steadily, and in 2009, the cello section was added to form the current structure with four categories: violin, cello, piano, and composition.

The competition is known not only for its rigorous standards but also for its commitment to fostering young talent. The 18th edition of the competition, held in 2022, saw participants from over 46 countries, highlighting its international appeal. Winners of the competition receive opportunities to perform in the prestigious George Enescu Festival, showcasing their talent alongside some of the world’s best orchestras and musicians.

Under the artistic direction of Cristian Măcelaru, the competition has seen an emphasis on maintaining high artistic standards and promoting musical diversity. It aims to introduce a younger audience to art and culture by integrating concerts for children into its programming, thereby expanding the reach of classical music. The competition features not only its main rounds but also recitals and concerts, making it a comprehensive experience for both participants and audiences.

Adapting to changing times, the George Enescu International Competition took an innovative approach in 2020 by moving its first stages online due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This allowed over 200 young musicians to participate despite global restrictions, with semifinals and finals later held at the iconic Romanian Athenaeum. Such adaptations showcase the competition’s dedication to fostering talent and maintaining its international reach even in challenging circumstances.

With its growing global reputation, the 2024 edition of the competition promises to continue the tradition of excellence. The event will open with a gala concert and will include performances by past winners of the competition, along with the George Enescu Philharmonic Orchestra. The finals will be led by esteemed conductors, bringing a rich and varied musical experience to audiences in Bucharest. Participants not only vie for cash prizes but also for the opportunity to perform in major concert halls and collaborate with top musicians, enhancing their artistic journeys.

The George Enescu International Competition remains a beacon for emerging musicians worldwide, promoting the rich legacy of George Enescu while offering a platform for innovation, excellence, and cultural exchange within the classical music community.

Fryderyk Chopin Piano Competition

Eternal Echoes

Top Classical, June 2023
In the heart of Warsaw, Poland, a musical tradition that encapsulates the very essence of the nation’s artistic heritage takes center stage every five years. The International Chopin Piano Competition, a celebration of the revered composer Fryderyk Chopin, transcends time and borders, honoring his legacy while serving as a crucible for pianistic brilliance.

Named after the Polish composer who redefined the piano’s expressive potential, the International Chopin Piano Competition has become a hallowed ground for pianists worldwide. Established in 1927, the competition pays homage to Chopin’s unparalleled contributions to the piano repertoire and his ability to channel raw human emotions into enchanting melodies.

Chopin’s music, characterized by its lyrical phrasing, intricate ornamentation, and intimate introspection, serves as a touchstone for pianists seeking to master the delicate interplay between technical virtuosity and poetic sentiment.

Far from being a conventional competition, the International Chopin Piano Competition elevates pianistic mastery to an art form. The event’s emphasis on Chopin’s compositions challenges participants to unravel the depths of his music, fusing their own interpretations with the composer’s essence.

Participants are tasked not only with showcasing their technical prowess but also with capturing the nuanced emotions embedded in Chopin’s works. The competition’s stringent jury, often composed of eminent pianists and musicians, holds the responsibility of identifying performers who can truly communicate Chopin’s spirit to audiences.

The competition’s significance transcends the realm of performance; it’s a pilgrimage for Chopin enthusiasts, pianists, and lovers of classical music. The competition brings together people from all walks of life who share a common reverence for Chopin’s genius.

Warsaw, with its historic charm and deep-rooted musical heritage, serves as the perfect backdrop for this event. The competition’s stages and recital halls become arenas of collective reverence, where the air vibrates with the echoes of Chopin’s compositions, and every note evokes a connection to Poland’s past.

The laurels of victory in the International Chopin Piano Competition are more than just accolades—they are passports to musical stardom. Past winners and finalists have emerged as some of the most celebrated pianists of their generations, leaving an indelible mark on the world’s concert halls, recording studios, and classrooms.

The competition’s alumni are not only exceptional pianists but also custodians of Chopin’s legacy, committed to preserving and propagating his musical heritage for generations to come.

The International Chopin Piano Competition is more than a competition; it’s a cultural odyssey that bridges time and space. As pianists from various corners of the globe gather in Warsaw, they pay homage to a composer whose work encapsulates universal human emotions. The competition reaffirms music’s ability to transcend language and geography, resonating with the hearts and souls of listeners far and wide.

As anticipation builds for the next edition of the International Chopin Piano Competition, the global music community is abuzz with excitement. While the exact details are shrouded in secrecy, a tantalizing sneak peek promises some intriguing changes and surprises.

From whispers in the corridors, it’s been rumored that the upcoming competition will feature a renewed focus on the interpretative aspect of Chopin’s compositions. Pianists will be encouraged to delve deep into the emotional layers of the music, offering fresh perspectives while staying true to the spirit of Chopin.

Moreover, an increased emphasis on collaborative performances might be on the horizon, potentially involving chamber music ensembles or orchestral collaborations. This shift could not only showcase the versatility of the competitors but also provide a holistic musical experience for both performers and the audience.

As the world eagerly awaits the next edition of the International Chopin Piano Competition, one thing remains certain: the echoes of Chopin’s music will continue to reverberate through time, transcending boundaries and inspiring generations of pianists to reach new heights of artistic expression.

The Leeds International Piano Competition

Exploring Excellence

Top Classical, April 2023
Every few years, the world of classical music turns its gaze to Leeds, a vibrant city in the United Kingdom, as it hosts one of the most prestigious events in the realm of piano performance – the Leeds International Piano Competition. Renowned for its rich history, exceptional talent pool, and commitment to nurturing musical virtuosos, this competition stands as a testament to the enduring allure of classical music.

The Leeds International Piano Competition, established in 1961, has evolved into a beacon for pianists seeking to make their mark on the global stage. With a focus solely on the piano, the competition has become a platform for young maestros to demonstrate their artistic prowess and interpretive skills, while paying homage to the great composers of the past.

Over the years, the competition has attracted an impressive array of musical luminaries who have lent their expertise as jurors, including icons like Dame Fanny Waterman, András Schiff, Murray Perahia, and Imogen Cooper. This confluence of musical genius adds a layer of distinction to an event that consistently showcases exceptional artistry.

What sets the Leeds International Piano Competition apart is its seamless blend of tradition and innovation. While the competition stays true to the classical canon, it also encourages participants to infuse their interpretations with personal flair and contemporary relevance. This duality ensures that the competition remains relevant in a world that constantly evolves, attracting both seasoned aficionados and newcomers to the world of classical music.

The competition’s structure comprises several stages, each designed to showcase the participants’ technical brilliance, emotional depth, and stylistic range. From the initial rounds that highlight technical precision to the final concerto performances accompanied by a world-class orchestra, every step of the competition is a testament to the rigorous standards upheld by the organizers.

For many pianists, participating in the Leeds International Piano Competition is not merely a chance to compete; it’s an opportunity to launch a career. The competition’s winners and finalists often find themselves thrust into the international spotlight, securing engagements with renowned orchestras, prestigious concert halls, and recording labels. The competition’s alumni have gone on to carve out remarkable careers, leaving an indelible mark on the classical music landscape.

One of the competition’s unique features is its ability to unite diverse talents from around the world. Pianists from different continents, cultures, and musical backgrounds converge in Leeds, fostering an environment of camaraderie and cross-cultural exchange. This not only enriches the participants’ experiences but also contributes to the global dissemination of musical heritage.

Beyond the competitive aspect, the Leeds International Piano Competition contributes significantly to music education and cultural enrichment. The competition’s outreach programs, masterclasses, and community engagements create opportunities for aspiring musicians to learn from established artists, fostering a cycle of artistic mentorship and growth.

As the world continues to evolve, the Leeds International Piano Competition remains a steadfast symbol of artistic excellence, a proving ground for the world’s finest pianists, and a testament to the enduring power of classical music. It is more than a competition; it is a celebration of human expression, a harmonious meeting of minds and melodies that resonates with audiences across the globe.

BBC Cardiff Singer of the World

The ineludible meeting for the best world singers

Top Classical, December 2022
Held every two years, this prestigious competition for singers from around the world was launched to celebrate the hall’s opening in 1983. 

 It was founded by BBC Cymru Wales, and it is opened to singers at the start of their professional careers, aged 18-32.  Starting from 18 singers in the first year, each nominated by their local broadcasting organisation, the number of contestants keep growing year by year. Competing on the very first evening was the now legendary Finnish soprano Karita Mattila, who went on to win the competition.  

In the last editions more than 300 talented singers from 55 countries applied to come to the capital of Wales to represent their country. Contestants are auditioned by the Competition staff to select the final 20.  The last BBC Cardiff Singer of the World competition in 2019 featured 20 singers from 15 countries, and for the first time the line-up included a singer from Guatemala. The 20 singers competed for the Main Prize, Song Prize and Audience Prize, the latter of which was dedicated to the memory of baritone Dmitri Hvorostovsky, who died in 2017 and won the competition in 1989. 

The contestants need to excel in a wide range of singing skills. The event is adjudicated by a panel of distinguished international jurors and the constants need to perform opera and concert music with full orchestra in four concerts. The winner from each concert plus one wild card (the best of the rest) competes in the final. This takes place in St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 

The reason of its popularity can be found in the the £15,000 prize money and possibly a BBC engagement. In addition, an engagement with Welsh National Opera may also be offered. The four other finalists receive £2,500 each.  

In addition, the competition in liaison with BBC Radio 3 will commission a new piece from composer John Lunn. It will be written especially for the winner, who will give its first performance at the 2016 BBC Proms, with the BBC National Orchestra of Wales. 

The winner of the BBC Cardiff Singer of the World Song Prize receives £5,000 and the Song Prize Trophy. 

Baritone Gihoon Kim, from Republic of Korea was the winner of the latest edition of the BBC Cardiff Singer of the World. He had studied singing at Yonsei University in Seoul before he received a scholarship at the Junge Oper Hannover, where he sang roles including Demetrius (A Midsummer Night’s Dream) and Marullo (Rigoletto).
“It has been an inspiring journey – and one that I will definitely remember for the rest of my career,” he said of the victory.

We can’t wait to meet the fierce contestants who will be ready to compete in the upcoming competition, which will take place next year, in 2023. If you are looking for the most promising classical music voices and the future star singers, keep a close eye on this outstanding competition!

Queen Elisabeth Competition

Celebrating Excellence in Classical Music

Top Classical, July 2022
Every few years, the world of classical music turns its attention to Brussels, where the prestigious Queen Elisabeth Competition takes center stage. Established in 1937, this international music competition has been a beacon of talent, innovation, and artistry, attracting some of the finest young musicians from around the globe. The competition’s legacy is marked by its dedication to a different instrument category in each edition, showcasing the diversity and virtuosity of classical music instruments. In 2022, the Queen Elisabeth Competition returns for its second cello edition, continuing its tradition of highlighting exceptional performers and propelling them onto the global stage.

In 2022, the Queen Elisabeth Competition will proudly dedicate itself to the cello for the second time. This remarkable event is tailored for musicians who have completed their training and are poised to embark on a journey towards an international career. From May 9 to June 4, 2022, Brussels will resonate with the melodic and emotive strains of the cello, as the world’s best young cellists gather to compete.

The competition’s significance lies not only in the caliber of the participants but also in the rigorous selection process. Cellists aged between 18 and 31 had the opportunity to apply until December 8, 2021. In January, the preliminary selection took place, with an international jury meticulously evaluating video submissions from 152 candidates behind closed doors. Ultimately, 68 exceptionally talented cellists were chosen to proceed to the first public round, which commenced on May 9 in the illustrious Studio 4 of Flagey.

As the competition unfolded, the initial number of participants experienced slight fluctuations due to withdrawals, culminating in a group of 66 gifted cellists vying for the top honors. Each performer brought a unique blend of technical mastery, artistic interpretation, and emotional depth, captivating audiences and judges alike.

The Queen Elisabeth Competition has a rich history of fostering musical excellence and providing a platform for emerging artists to showcase their skills. The competition is not merely a showcase of virtuosity; it also serves as a stepping stone for young musicians to gain international recognition and launch their professional careers. The competition’s jury, comprised of eminent musicians and experts, assesses not only technical prowess but also the ability to convey emotion and connect with audiences.

Audiences and classical music enthusiasts play a pivotal role in the competition’s success. The event invites music lovers to witness the evolution of these young artists as they progress through the rounds, demonstrating their versatility and command over their instruments. The atmosphere of anticipation, appreciation, and excitement is palpable as every note resonates within the concert halls.

The Queen Elisabeth Competition’s influence extends beyond its competition rounds. Throughout the event, attendees have the opportunity to experience a myriad of performances, from the competition rounds themselves to the laureates’ concerts. These concerts not only celebrate the winners but also showcase the diverse and dynamic nature of classical music, featuring both established masters and rising stars.

Tickets and subscriptions for these events are available through Flagey and Bozar, the esteemed concert halls that host the competition. The organizers take pride in welcoming audiences back into these hallowed halls, where musical excellence intertwines with a shared appreciation for the beauty of classical compositions.

The Queen Elisabeth Competition stands as a testament to the enduring power of classical music to captivate hearts and minds. As it continues to evolve and adapt, the competition maintains its commitment to nurturing exceptional talent and sharing the beauty of classical music with the world. The 2022 cello edition promises to be a celebration of skill, passion, and artistry, inviting audiences to immerse themselves in the melodic tapestry woven by the world’s finest young cellists.

The Francesc Viñas Competition

From Liceu to the world

Top Classical, July 2022
The Francesc Viñas competition was founded in 1963 by Jacint Vilardell to commemorate Catalan tenor Francesc Viñas, who was born 150 years ago and was the first person to think of such a competition to foster new talent. 

The competition has become one of the major contests in the opera, oratorio and Lied world, in which young singers from all over the world take part every year.  

Each year the preliminary stages take place all over the world, in the cities of Madrid, Paris, London, Hamburg, Milan, New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Beijing, where the Liceu Theatre has cooperative agreements with the opera houses. For 2020’s edition more than 500 singers from around 53 different countries had to take part.  Last year, 2020, the endowment of the prizes increased in 6,000 euros, with a total of 121,000 euros, distributed in official, special and extraordinary prizes and a contract offered by the Gran Teatre del Liceu Foundation for the coming seasons. Besides being presented with the official prizes, the winners may receive other awards, such as study grants and contracts for performances at various theatres. 

The final stage of the competition always takes place in Barcelona’s Gran Teatre del Liceu with 15 singers taking part. The Final Audition is held each January in the same Liceu, as is the final concert with the winners, accompanied by the Gran Teatre del Liceu Symphony Orchestra. 

Prominent singers who have won the Viñas Contest includes Tamara Wilson (2011), Javier Camarena (2005), Violeta Urmana (1992), Željko Lucic (1997), Antonio Gandia (2004) and Vicenç Sardinero (1965). 

In the 2019-2020 it was the russian Mezzo-Soprano Victoria Karkacheva who won first prize performing Tchaikovsky’s Aria di Polina, and a piece from Wagner’s opera Rienzi. 

In words of the artistic director of the Liceu, Víctor García de Gomar, “The competition is a space that generates a market of opportunities for talent that comes from all over the world. The faithful “nose” of the jury tries to observe what the new talents of the future are” 

We can’t wait to meet the new generation of stars in the opera world that will be awarded in the following years! You can learn more about the past winners and the competition in the official page: http://www.tenorvinas.com/en 

International Sibelius Violin Competition

Being selected is already an achievement!

Top Classical, March 2022
The International Violin Competition, named after the great Finnish patriotic composer Sibelius, was founded in 1965 and is held every five years and takes place in Helsinki. 

Sibelius (Jean Sibelius, 1865-1957), is Finland’s Most Famous Composer and representative of the National School of Music. He graduated from the Helsinki Conservatory of Music and later went to Berlin and Vienna to continue his studies. He has written many works incarnating passionate patriotism and strong national pride, and therefore achieving international recognition.  To commemorate him, Finland established the “Sibelius Association” and held an international music competition. 

The Sibelius Society of Finland launched the contest in 1965 in connection with the 100th anniversary of the birth of Sibelius. An Honorary Committee was created and a large number of distinguished musicians agreed to be members. Among them were Sir John Barbirolli, Herbert von Karajan, Yehudi Menuhin, David Oistrakh, Eugene Ormandy, Igor Stravinsky, and Henryk Szeryng.  

The main repertoire of the contest is “A Minor Concert” by Sibelius, which has a distinctive national style and a new writing structure. Because the performance technique is very challenging and breaks conventions, it is not easy for a performer to impress the audience only with charm. In addition, this event is only held every five years, with few opportunities and fierce competition. The competitors are so strong that, it is generally accepted that anyone who gets good results in this contest has already won the category of outstanding artist. 

Young violinists around the world who have not yet turned 30 are welcomed to demonstrate their musical talents and compete with each other. The number of applicants set a new record in 2015 with 234; and only 45 of them were selected for the competition in Helsinki.

Many of the winners of the Violin Competition have become world-famous star violinists. In the fourth competition of 1980, the former player of the Soviet Union, Mulova, won the first place. And in 1995 the price went to the Finn: Pekka Kuusisto. 

Due to the pandemic situation, the 12th Jean Sibelius International Violin Competition had to be postponed to May 18-29, 2022. “We want to do everything possible to ensure the safety and health of our competitors and their hosts, as well as the many musicians, other employees, supporters and the public involved. We are very grateful to all those who participated in the organization of the contest and to our fans who will do this great competition with us also in 2022″ said Lauri Ratia, president of the Sibelius Society and the Violin Competition Committee. 

Van Cliburn competition

Top Classical, October 2021
The Van Cliburn Piano Competition is a prestigious piano competition held every four years at Fort Worth, Texas. Pianist Harvey Lavan “Van” Cliburn, Jr. established the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition, which has become one of the best-known classical music contests in the United States. 

Van Cliburn was an American hero and an international icon for over five decades. He was praised as one of the most persuasive ambassadors of American culture, as well as one of the greatest pianists in the history of music. In 1958 he became famous as America’s classical music champion when he won first prize at the inaugural International Tchaikovsky Competition, which took place in Moscow when it was the capital of the communist Soviet Union. Van Cliburn’s victory took on deeper political and cultural implications in the context of the Cold War, as he defeated his Russian competitors.  Four years later in 1962, a dedicated group of Fort Worth volunteers held the First Van Cliburn International Piano Competition in his honor; the competition is now widely recognized as one of the most prestigious the best-known classical music contests in the world. 

Held at four-year intervals, The Cliburn allows the finest young concert pianists to perform before a global audience. In addition to the competitions, the Foundation manages the careers of professional competition winners for a defined period of time and presents concert series and educational programming in the Fort Worth area. The competition began on-line audio streaming of the performances and in 2009, all of the performances were webcasted live for the first time in its history. 

In its 60-year history, the Cliburn has identified and ushered a host of exceptional internationally well-known artists including Barry Douglas, Olga Kern, Radu Lupu, Jon Nakamatsu, and Cristina Ortiz.  

Before the competition takes place, an esteemed five-member screening jury travels from all over the world to hear more than 100 pianists perform a 40-minute recital in front of a live audience. From these auditions, 30 of the world’s finest pianists will be invited to compete for the coveted Cliburn medals, more than $175,000 in prizes and awards, and three years of commission-free career management valued at over $1.3 million. During a demanding three-week schedule, all competitors will perform two 45-minute solo recitals in the Preliminary Round. Then 12 semifinalists will be selected to perform a 60-minute solo recital. The six finalists will perform 6 competitors will perform two concertos, with the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra and conductor Marin Alsop 

This year for the first time in its 60-year history, the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition has been postponed. The competition hosted in Fort Worth has been rescheduled to June 2022 from its original June 2021 date, due to the coronavirus pandemic. 

Gina Bachauer Competition

The quest beyond perfection

Top Classical, June 2021
In 1976 the Gina Bachauer International Piano Competition was founded in Salt Lake City in honour of the famous pianist. It attracts young pianists from all over the world each year. Today is the second largest piano competition in the United States and it’s housed in the Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center.   

Founded by Dr. Paul Pollei as Brigham Young University’s Summer Piano Festival and international piano competition, the event became the Gina Bachauer International Piano Foundation (GBIP) after it experienced growth and success under the patronage of the Utah Symphony.  

 As an independent organization, it is now known worldwide for its dedication to “further the pianistic art, foster excellence in performance and teaching, develop opportunities for pianists beyond the scope of the organization and offer leadership in developing a musically-educated citizenry.”  The GBIP prides itself for being more than just a piano competition but a mean of education, outreach, and opportunity. 

More than 1,000 pianists have competed in the Gina Bachauer International Piano Competitions and cash prizes totaling more than $300,000 have been awarded. The competition is renowned for launching the careers of duo-pianists Gail Niwa and Lori Sims. 

The competition is wiedely known to be one of the most exigent in terms of musical abilitites. Some of the past contestants claim that “It’s very difficult to qualify. You have to be insanely good. Then the competition begins.” 

Historically, the last three rounds all take place over a three-week period in Salt Lake City, which presents a bit of accommodation problem for foreign competitors. 

All of the participants come from out of town and very few hotel rooms have grand pianos. So the foundation that runs the competition asks for volunteers who own grand pianos to share their homes with one of the competitors for 2-3 weeks. 

For the 2020 the Young Artists International Piano Competition prepared to feature 27 pianists ages 15-18.These young international pianists had to be given two Solo Round performances in Salt Lake City’s Rose Wagner Center. Five finalists would have then performed a concerto movement with the Utah Symphony in Abravanel Hall in their quest for medals and a share of $62,000 in cash prizes.  

Kary Billings, Bachauer’s executive director was thrilled with the level of the contestants: “The kids at this level are amazing. They have selected some of the most technically difficult and musically brilliant works from the piano literature that would be found in competition categories for adults. I don’t think it would be an exaggeration to say that these young musicians will blow your mind.” 

Unfortunately, given the current circumstances, the 2020 Gina Bachauer Junior and Young Artists International Piano Competitions had to be cancelled, with the hope to be rescheduled for this June.