It is well-known that, due to the specifics of ensemble interaction,
outstanding solo performers rarely achieve the same level of success in concertmaster roles.

In the First Round of the competition,
we will identify eight instrumentalists who demonstrate a high level of solo performance.

In the Second (final) Round, the performers will be integrated into an ensemble,
allowing for reassessment of their individual qualities.

Applications for the competition must be submitted online via the website.

During registration, participants should provide their email address and WhatsApp number.

Participants will then be redirected to the payment page for the entry fee.

The paid entry fee is non-refundable,
except in the unlikely event that the competition does not take place.

The online form must be accompanied by documents and a single YouTube link
(only one link; multiple links will not be accepted) containing a video recording.

The recording must include two works from the following repertoire:

For violinists:
1) Mozart Concerto No. 3, 4 or 5 (1st movement with cadenza),
2) Romantic Concerto (1st movement)
3) Any Paganini Caprice (except No. 13, 14, 20, 21),
4) Any Virtuoso Piece (e.g. Wieniawski, Sarasate) or any Ysaye Sonata.

For cellists:
1) One Etude of your choice (Popper, Dotzauer, Piatti, Klengel),
2) Virtuoso movement of a classical sonata or classical concerto.
3) Any virtuoso piece from 20th century music (solo or with accompanist).

The video recording must be unedited.
The camera angle should remain the same throughout,
and the recording must be done
with one stationary camera that clearly shows
both hands of the performer.

Applications will not be accepted if they contain incomplete or false information.

The application will be confirmed only after all documents are received.

The deadline for submitting applications is January 25, 2026.

Results of the First Round will be published on January 30, 2026.

Each participant pays a fee of 50 euros to enter the First (Qualifying) Round.

Finalists pay a fee of 80 euros to enter the Second Round.

In the event of non-attendance, the entry fee is non-refundable,
except in the unlikely event that the competition does not take place.

Finalists who do not reside in Vienna will receive partial compensation of 50 euros
for travel and accommodation expenses; remaining expenses will be covered by the participant

On February 1, 2026, finalists will receive an invitation to Vienna for rehearsals.

Payment for participation in the Second Round
must be made on the website no later than February 2.

Each participant must confirm their attendance by email by February 10.

Eight string players will be selected for the Second Round — four violinists and four cellists.

On February 10, two quartets will be formed,and special venues will be provided for rehearsals.

The final audition will take place on February 13.

During the final audition, video and audio recordings will be made in the hall,
and a live broadcast will be available on the website.

Jury members will listen to the finalists remotely, without knowing their names.

The performers’ faces will not be visible in the frame.

The jury’s decision is final and cannot be appealed.

On February 14, the names of the laureates will be posted on the competition website.

The concert will be recorded,
and a CD will be sent to the finalists via registered mail as a prize.

The total prize fund of the competition is 6.000 euros:

– First prize: 5.000 euros

– Second prize: 1.000 euros

The jury reserves the right not to award the First Prize.