The 1st Vienna International Competition Ignaz Anton Schuppanzigh 2026 invites talented violinists, violists, and string quartets from around the world to participate in an international music competition dedicated to artistic excellence, chamber music tradition, and the legacy of one of Vienna’s most influential musicians.
Organized by Culture Meeting Point Vienna (CMP Vienna) in collaboration with Mozarthaus Vienna, the competition offers young musicians and emerging artists the opportunity to perform in Vienna, gain international exposure, and compete for prestigious prizes including the Grand Prix Prize of €5,500.
About Ignaz Anton Schuppanzigh
Ignaz Anton Schuppanzigh was one of the most important violinists and chamber musicians of the early 19th century. As leader of the famous Schuppanzigh Quartet, he played a decisive role in premiering and promoting many of Ludwig van Beethoven’s legendary string quartets. His influence helped establish chamber music and the string quartet as central forms of concert performance in European classical music history.
Vienna International Competition
Vienna International Competition Categories
Age Categories
Category A: 17 years and older
Category B: Up to 16 years old
For string quartets, the average age applies.
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: 26 July 2026
- Results Announcement: 2 August 2026
- Final Round in Vienna: 26 September 2026
- Winners Concert at Mozarthaus Vienna: 27 September 2026
Grand Prix & Awards
The competition offers several prestigious prizes and performance opportunities:
Main Awards
- Grand Prix Prize: €5,500
- 1st Prize: Live concert at Mozarthaus Vienna, certificate, professional photo shoot, audio & video recording, and award ceremony
- 2nd Prize: Invitation to award ceremony, certificate, and photo session
- 3rd Prize: Invitation to award ceremony, certificate, and photo session
Special Awards
- Schuppanzigh Quartet Prize
- Special Jury Prize
- Honourable Mentions
The winners of the first prizes will have the opportunity to perform live at the prestigious Mozarthaus Vienna Concert Hall, one of Vienna’s iconic classical music venues.
Vienna International Competition Format
First Round – Video Submission
Participants must submit an unedited video performance recorded specifically for the competition.
Maximum Duration
- Up to 20 minutes
Recording Rules
- No editing or cuts allowed
- Continuous performance format
- Videos must be uploaded to YouTube as “Unlisted”
- Landscape format required
- Smartphone microphones are acceptable
Final Round – Live in Vienna
Selected finalists will perform live in Vienna on 26 September 2026.
Final Round Repertoire
Violin
- One Beethoven composition
- One virtuosic work
- One contemporary piece
Viola
- Schubert: Arpeggione Sonata
- One piece from Signs, Games and Messages by György Kurtág
String Quartet
- One Beethoven string quartet
Participation Fees
- Solo Categories: €95
- String Quartet Category: €180
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit:
- Application Form
- Passport or ID Copy
- Biography in English
- Artistic Photo
- Video Link
- Proof of Payment
Applications and documents must be sent before 26 July 2026 to:
📧 culturempcompetition@gmail.com
Why Participate?
The Vienna International Ignaz Anton Schuppanzigh Competition provides:
- International exposure for young musicians
- Professional concert opportunities
- Performance experience in Vienna
- Jury evaluation by distinguished musicians
- Media promotion and recorded performances
- Networking with international artists and institutions
Vienna remains one of the world’s most important musical capitals, making this competition an exceptional opportunity for emerging classical musicians seeking an international career.
