The 2025 Bogotá International Violin Competition, Colombia’s first of its kind, is set to elevate the city’s standing as a prominent classical music destination in Latin America. The event, aimed at promoting violin excellence and inspiring local youth through Bogotá’s “Vamos a la Filarmónica” programs, will take place from October 31 to November 7, 2025.
Held at two prestigious venues, the Auditorio Fabio Lozano and Teatro Mayor Julio Mario Santo Domingo, the competition is open to violinists of all nationalities who are 30 years old or younger as of May 31, 2025.
The competition process begins with a Preliminary Round in June, where up to 20 participants will be selected to advance to the live Semifinal in Bogotá in November. All expenses, including travel, will be covered for these finalists. A distinguished panel of musicians and educators (to be announced) will judge the competitors.
The three finalists will compete for a total prize pool of $70,000 USD, with the First Prize winner taking home $30,000, the Second Prize receiving $20,000, and the Special Prize for the Commissioned Work Performance valued at $20,000. The top prize winner will also have the honor of performing in the 2026 season of the Bogotá Philharmonic Orchestra, with additional performance opportunities offered in the city and beyond.
The deadline for applications is May 31, 2025, at 5 PM Colombia time. Competitors will be judged on their precision, clarity, control, musicality, expression, adaptability to the repertoire, originality, and virtuosity.
The competition will also feature a commissioned work, to be announced in July 2025, which will be exclusively provided to the finalists. Additionally, all participants will have the opportunity to conduct masterclasses for up to 10 young violinists.
Bogotá, designated a UNESCO Creative City of Music, is home to a thriving classical music scene. The city’s rich public music education system, complemented by youth and professional orchestras, world-class theaters, and a top-tier concert season, makes it an ideal location for this prestigious competition. The event is poised to further solidify Bogotá’s status as a leading musical hub in Latin America.
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