Eurochestries International Composition Competition 2026-2027

Official call/opportunity page URL: https://www.eurochestries.org/en-gb/concours-international-de-composition

Deadline: 31 August 2026 for the first round. Selected composers submit the complete score by 31 March 2027.

Entry fee: €50, non-refundable.

Eligibility: The competition has two age groups. One group is for composers under 30, born after 31 March 1997. The other is for composers aged over 30, born before 31 March 1997.

Composition / submission requirements: For the first round, composers submit a 2 to 3 minute musical excerpt with a 10 to 15 line statement of intent. Final complete scores must be performable by a high-level youth orchestra. Duration is 6 to 8 minutes for the younger group and 8 to 10 minutes for the older group. All styles and aesthetic forms are permitted.

Prize / benefit: The total prize pool is €20,500. For each age group, prizes are €5,000, €3,000, and €2,000, with an additional €500 audience prize shared across the competition. Finalists also receive a 4 to 5 day residency with the European Youth Symphony Orchestra Eurochestries International, media coverage, a live recording of the final performance, and visibility within the Eurochestries network.

Application method: Use the official registration links on the Eurochestries competition page and follow the full regulations.

Recommended for: Composers who can write effectively for youth symphony orchestra while maintaining professional musical quality.

Applicant note: The first round asks for an excerpt and concept statement rather than a full finished work, so applicants should present a clear and convincing project idea.