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1. Competition Objective

The Bogotá International Violin Competition 2027 seeks to promote excellence in violin performance, positioning Bogotá as a leading classical music hub in Latin America. Inspired by the city’s robust symphonic music environment, this event aims to serve as a source of inspiration for national and international violinists. Additionally, the competition aspires to inspire over 30,000 children and youth beneficiaries of the “Vamos a la Filarmónica” programs in Bogotá, fostering a passion for classical music and elevating the level of musical competition and appreciation in the city.

2. Participation Requirements

  • Age: Participants must be over 18 years old and up to 29 years old as of May 31, 2027.
  • Nationality: Open to participants of all nationalities.
  • Performance Level: Professional experience is required, especially in solo and orchestral performance.

3. Competition Stages

  1. Preliminary Round: Each participant must submit a video without any cuts presenting:
    1. One Caprice by Paganini.
    2. First movement of a Classical or Romantic sonata.
    3. One Fugue from J.S. Bach.

  2. Announcement of Selected Contestants: Up to 22 participants will be selected, and the competition will cover their travel and stay in Bogotá.

    By accepting to participate, contestants agree:

    1. Not to withdraw until eliminated, except for reasons of force majeure.
    2. If not selected for the semifinal or final, the participant commits to giving a masterclass for 10 young performers. This masterclass aims to strengthen the skills of young violinists in Bogotá through the presence of prominent international violinists. Applicants not willing to give masterclasses must state so on their application form.
  3. Semifinals: Live performances before the jury in Bogotá.
    1. First Round: Preliminary, up to 22 performers.
    2. Second Round: Semifinal, up to 10 performers. At the end of the second round, the 3 finalists will be announced.
  4. Final Round: 3 finalists in competition.

4. Repertoire

  • Application repertoire: The contestant will not be allowed to present videos with cuts or edits; this will disqualify the candidate immediately. In this preliminary round, each participant must submit a video presenting:
    • One Caprice by Paganini.
    • First movement of a Classical or Romantic sonata.
    • One Fugue from J.S. Bach.
  • Competition repertoire: The competition repertoire will be announced in the first week of February 2027 to the candidates once they have been selected as participants.
  • Mandatory Pieces: The repertoire will include specific works that all participants must perform. These pieces will be detailed in a specific list with recommended durations.
  • Commissioned Work: A commissioned work will be announced in February 2027 and exclusively provided to finalists.
  • IMPORTANT: Participants must perform all pieces for the competition from memory, including the audition video. Platforms will not be allowed on stage. Exceptions: the use of sheet music will be announced to the selected participants.

5. Evaluation Criteria (may be expanded based on the jury's discretion)

  • Technique: Precision, clarity, and control in performance.
  • Musicality and Expression: Ability to convey emotions and give interpretative depth.
  • Repertoire Adaptation: Sensitivity and fidelity to the style of each piece.
  • Originality and Virtuosity: Technical and creative skills in selected performances.

6. Jury

  • Jury Composition: The committee will be composed of distinguished musicians, educators, and conductors. The complete list will be announced in due course.

7. Awards

  • Cash Prizes and concerts in Bogotá:
    • First Prize: USD 30,000 + concert with the Bogotá Philharmonic Orchestra.
    • Second Prize: USD 20,000 + concert with the National Symphony Orchestra of Colombia.
    • Third Prize: USD 15,000 + concert at Teatro Mayor Julio Mario Santo Domingo.
    • Special Prize for Best Interpretation of a Colombian Work: USD 15,000.
  • Performance Opportunities for the First Prize Winner: Engagements at leading concert venues in Bogotá, with additional performance opportunities to be announced.

8. Registration and Application Platform

  • Registration Deadline: The application deadline is May 31 at 5:00 pm Colombia time (GMT -5). Applications will be received through the official website and associated social media platforms.
  • Required Documentation:
    • Audition video - please refer to section 4. YouTube or Vimeo link; it is recommended that the video be password-protected.
    • Video password.
    • Curriculum Vitae.
    • Motivation Letter.
    • Selected Repertoire.
    • Declaration of acceptance of the competition conditions, participant’s commitments, and agreement to give masterclasses to young performers.

Technical Requirements for Video Audition – Preliminary Round

Candidates must ensure the highest possible audio and video quality. We strongly recommend using high-quality microphones and audio interfaces rather than the camera’s internal microphone.

To maintain visual clarity, we also recommend using a fixed camera angle that keeps both hands and face clearly visible at all times.

A maximum of two cuts is allowed—one per piece. To ensure consistency, all included takes should maintain the same quality and be recorded within a reasonable timeframe. All recordings must be no more than one year old. The date and location of the recording must be included in the video information.

9. Participants’ Rights and Commitments

  • Rights: Access to rehearsal spaces, instrumental accompaniment, and technical assistance. Participants wishing to bring their own accompanist and an additional rehearsal space will be responsible for all additional costs.
  • Commitments:
    • Participants must adhere to the schedule.
    • Attend all required performances.
    • Give masterclasses if they do not advance to the subsequent rounds.
    • Respect the rules and guidelines of the competition.

10. Final Provisions

  • Image Rights: By participating, contestants authorize the use of images and videos taken during the competition for promotional purposes.
  • Regulation Modifications: The organization reserves the right to make adjustments to the regulations if necessary, informing participants accordingly.
  • Competition Date and Venue: The in-person stages will be held in Bogotá at dates and venues to be confirmed.
Download the regulations here 
Close-up view of a violin bridge and strings