rules
Competition Rules – London International Concerto Competition 2026
Eligibility
The competition is open to all nationalities, with no age limit, and welcomes the following instruments:
Piano, Strings, Guitar, Harp, Woodwinds, and Brass
Audition Requirements
Applicants must submit a video recording featuring one or more movements of a chosen concerto from the official Repertoire List.
If you wish to perform a concerto or a piece not listed, please email info@londonconcertocompetition.co.uk for approval before applying.
Performances may include:
- Orchestra accompaniment
- Piano accompaniment
- Audio backing track
- Or be performed solo (without accompaniment)
Applicants may perform with the score or from memory – there is no advantage if you perform by memory.
Important Video Guidelines
- Only video links (e.g. YouTube, Vimeo, Google Drive, etc.) will be accepted.
- Password-protected links are allowed.
- Downloadable files will not be accepted.
- The applicant’s name and piece title must appear in the video description.
Jury
- All submissions will be evaluated by an international panel including members of the London City Philharmonic and conductor Olsi Qinami.
- Judging is based solely on the video recording.
- The decisions of the judges are final and cannot be appealed.
Selection and Results
At least six finalists (multiple winners) will be selected from the video auditions.
The chosen winners will be invited to perform one or more movements of their concerto with the London City Philharmonic on 18 July 2026 at Holy Trinity Church, Sloane Square – a historic venue with excellent acoustics.
For shorter concertos (around 10–12 minutes, such as Vivaldi concertos), winners may perform the entire work.
Additional Opportunities
Semifinalists may also be invited to perform as soloists with the London City Philharmonic in future seasons (2026/2027or 2027/2028).
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: 5 May 2026
- Results Announced: 8 May 2026
- Winners’ Concert: Saturday, 18 July 2026 at 19:30
- Venue: Holy Trinity Church, Sloane Square, 146 Sloane St, London SW1X 9BZ
Winners’ Concert
Winners will perform with the London City Philharmonic on 18 July 2026 at Holy Trinity Church, Sloane Square, 146 Sloane St, London SW1X 9BZ under the direction of Olsi Qinami.
Each performer will receive a professional video recording of their concert performance.
If the event or participation must be postponed due to force majeure, it will be rescheduled.
All participants are responsible for their own travel and accommodation.
Certificates and Participation
- Certificates of Recognition will be presented to winners after the concert.
- Winners who do not perform in the Winners’ Concert will be disqualified.
Contact
London International Concerto Competition
📧 info@londonconcertocompetition.co.uk