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Top Classical Music Competitions and Awards Worldwide

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Classical Music Awards - iMusician

Music competitions and awards have a long history in classical music. Each year, hundreds of competitions worldwide reward talented players and composers, helping them progress in their careers and shape their reputations.

As the list of international classical music competitions can get long and confusing, we’ve decided to help you out by making our very own well-structured and easy-to-read list! Ready to participate and submit your music in 2024? Let’s dive into the list, then!

The importance of classical music competitions

The history of classical music competitions journeys back to the beginning of the 20th century (as we know it). Reportedly, some of the oldest classical music competitions in the world are the International Naumburg Competition in New York and the International Chopin Piano Competition in Warsaw, Poland, which were first held in 1926 and 1927, respectively.

To this day, music competitions and awards play a prominent role in classical artists’ careers. Fundamentally, they serve as both a prestige indicator and a source of new opportunities for those who win or are placed in top positions. Meanwhile, the monetary reward may be an essential boost for young musicians who are in need of financial support to progress in their careers.

On top of that, classical music competitions present an important platform for the advancement and motivation of young professionals, helping to encourage their ambitions and take on their dreams.

USA

String instruments

Chamber music

Composition

Piano

Choral/Voice

UK

String instruments

Piano

Germany

String instruments

Chamber music

Piano

Choral/Voice

France

Composition

Piano

Italy

String instruments

Chamber music

Piano

Spain

String instruments

Chamber music

Piano

International Compositions

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