Berlin Composition Prize 2026 (Duo)
The 3rd Berlin Composition Prize 2026 (Duo) invites young composers from around the world to submit original chamber music works for a prestigious international composition competition in Berlin. Organized by SONARLOFT, the competition seeks innovative voices, fresh artistic perspectives, and boundary-crossing musical ideas that challenge conventions and explore new creative possibilities.
Whether your music is rooted in classical traditions, experimental sound worlds, jazz, electroacoustic composition, or genre-defying approaches, the Berlin Composition Prize offers a unique platform for emerging composers to gain international recognition and have their work professionally premiered in one of Germany’s leading contemporary music venues.
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Applications are open for composers aged 35 and under who wish to present original duo compositions and compete for significant cash prizes, professional performance opportunities, and artistic development support.
About the Berlin Composition Prize
The Berlin Composition Prize is organized by SONARLOFT, a Berlin-based artistic initiative dedicated to contemporary music, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the promotion of emerging composers and performers.
The competition aims to discover and support outstanding new music creators while providing a professional environment where innovative works can be heard, discussed, and celebrated. Through public performances, artistic networking, and international visibility, the prize contributes to the development of the next generation of composers.
Competition Category
Duo Composition
Eligible compositions may be written for combinations involving:
- Violin
- Viola
- Violoncello
- Piano
Participants must submit an original composition for duo formation.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be 35 years old or younger (cut-off date: 15 September 2026)
- Be active composers working in any musical style
- Submit an original work that has not been performed publicly or published
- Have composed a work lasting between 10 and 12 minutes
- Be interested in having their composition professionally premiered in Berlin
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: 15 September 2026
- Jury Deliberation: September – October 2026
- Winner Announcement: 5 October 2026
- Live Concert & Award Ceremony: 28 October 2026
- Venue: Kühlhaus Berlin, Germany
Awards & Prizes
The competition offers financial awards, performance opportunities, and professional artistic support.
Main Prize
- €5,000 Cash Prize
- World Premiere Performance at the SONARLOFT Concert
- Performance at Kühlhaus Berlin
Development Prizes
- Two Development Awards of €1,000 each
Additional Benefits
- Official Certificate
- Individual Artistic Support
- Access to the SONARLOFT International Network
- Professional Exposure within the Contemporary Music Community
Evaluation Process
An international jury consisting of composers, musicians, and artists will evaluate submissions anonymously.
Artistic Directors
- Konstantin Manaev (Violoncello)
- Wojciech Garbowski (Violin)
- Philipp Scheucher (Piano)
In addition, a distinguished guest composer will participate as honorary jury member.
Evaluation Criteria
Submitted works will be assessed according to:
- Instrumental Writing
- Originality and Artistic Vision
- Sound World and Musical Language
- Formal Structure
- Dramaturgy and Development
To ensure fairness, all submissions are evaluated anonymously. The applicant’s biography will not be considered during the assessment process.
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit:
- Full Score (PDF)
- Individual Instrumental Parts (Combined PDF)
- Short Biography (Maximum 1 Page)
- Portrait Photograph
Composition Length
- 10–12 Minutes
Participation Fee
- €50 per application
How to Apply
Candidates should prepare all required materials and submit their application before the deadline.
For complete regulations, technical requirements, and detailed submission guidelines, applicants should consult the official Call for Entries PDF.
Why Participate?
The Berlin Composition Prize offers an exceptional opportunity for young composers seeking professional recognition and international exposure.
Participants benefit from:
- International visibility
- Professional premiere performance
- Financial support
- Artistic mentorship
- Networking with performers and composers
- Exposure to contemporary music professionals
- Presentation of their work in Berlin’s vibrant cultural scene
As one of Europe’s most dynamic centers for contemporary music and artistic experimentation, Berlin provides an inspiring environment for emerging composers looking to advance their careers and share their artistic vision with international audiences.
Contact Information
SONARLOFT GbR
📍 Luckenwalder Str. 3, DE-10963 Berlin, Germany
📞 +49 (0)176 721 65 198
