Competition: George Enescu International Competition

Since 2014, the George Enescu International Competition has taken place every two years, with its next edition taking place in 2018. With competition categories dedicated to instrumentalists in violin, cello, and piano, as well as a separate composition category, its stated aim is to provide a platform for young artists looking to make a name for themselves on the international stage.

While international in scope, the competition holds true to its Romanian roots. It is organised by the George Enescu International Festival, the largest international cultural event in Romania which is dedicated to promoting the work of its namesake - arguably the country’s most famous composer. As such, Enescu’s music forms some of the repertoire for the competition soloists. It is the only classical music contest in Romania to be officially recognised by the World Federation of International Music Competitions, with a jury of over 20 respected musicians from Romania and across the world.

The opportunities for competition applicants are significant. With over 40 recitals and concerts and a total prize value of 115.000 euro spread over each of the categories, as well as the opportunity to play with renowned conductors in the finalists’ concerts, the competition has a lot to offer young musicians. What’s more, there are live streams of the competition events, broadcast across the world as well as on a screen outside the Romanian Athenaeum. Competition winners may also have the chance to perform at future editions of the competition and festival, as well as concert tours in Romania and abroad.