Saint-Saëns International Music Competition 2026: All Instruments, Voice, Film/Game Music and Ensembles
A broad-format international online contest
Season Four of the Saint-Saëns International Music Competition is accepting entries until 12 December 2026, with results scheduled for 2 January 2027. Its catalogue goes well beyond piano and composition, including woodwind, brass, strings, voice, conducting, orchestras, choir, chamber music, musical/opera performance and music for films or games. Participants apply online and select the category and age or repertoire division that corresponds to their work. The use of a French composer's name does not imply that this is a state-funded French conservatoire audition.
Know the published entry fee
The official entry form lists £65 for one category, £120 for two, £170 for three and £220 for four. A submitted application must identify the candidate, instrument, music work, home country and supporting materials. Performers and conductors must provide a video link; composers may supply audio or video including MIDI. These costs are application charges, not performance honoraria, and joining several divisions multiplies the financial commitment.
Age and programme divisions
The form divides younger participants into Prodigy, Junior, Youth, Young Artist and Advanced ranges, while Professional is available without a stated age limit. Separate categories cover concerto, sonata, national music, musical theatre and creative work. Because a particular performer might be eligible under more than one heading, it is important to check the rules on duplicate submissions and whether different pieces are required for each category. Uploading one link does not automatically constitute entry to every division.
Judging expectations and credibility checks
The competition publishes the current online application and its result date, giving candidates direct evidence of the operative season. Prospective applicants should examine its archive of earlier editions, jury biographies, certificate policies and prize conditions before paying. No unconditional cash award or orchestral engagement is established by the generic submission form; the potential benefit should be assessed in the context of its actual adjudication and publication policy.
Official rules and organiser application
Information verified on 23 October 2026. Before applying, confirm current deadline and time zone, entry and participation costs, instrument or media rules, work eligibility, copyright and funding directly in the official organiser documents.