The Enescu Competition comprises four sections – Cello, Violin, Piano and Composition – complemented by a series of masterclasses held by Maestro Cristian Măcelaru, designed for each musician to discover and expand their potential. Register by May 17, 2026, and by June 30, 2026 for the composition and masterclass sections.
About the Competition and Masterclasses
The Enescu Competition is open to cellists, violinists, pianists and composers born after August 1, 1991. The Conducting and Advanced Music Study Masterclass is open to musicians born after August 1, 1991, and the Instrumental Performance and Composition Masterclass is open to musicians born after August 1, 2001. Register by May 17, 2026, and by June 30, 2026 for the composition and masterclass sections.
This year’s edition includes an online pre-selection stage for the instrumental sections, four live stages held in Bucharest and a composition section structured in two categories: symphonic music and chamber music. The official regulations, as well as information on registration, repertoire, fees, calendar and prizes are constantly updated and available on the “Useful information for competitors” page.
Participating in the Enescu Competition is an important step in your journey to excellence. It offers you a real challenge, designed to develop you artistically and personally, along with feedback from an international jury and the chance to perform on the most prestigious stage in Romania. The winners of the Enescu Competition receive, in addition to the competition trophy and prize, the opportunity to perform at the Enescu Festival and concert seasons in the country, as well as mentoring and career guidance.
The structure of the Competition follows the standards of the World Federation of International Music Competitions and combines the classical repertoire with the works of George Enescu. The masterclasses held by Maestro Cristian Măcelaru bring to the program an area dedicated to study, dialogue and mentorship, designed for young musicians who want to grow, experiment and exceed their own limits.
The Enescu Competition comprises four sections – Cello, Violin, Piano and Composition – complemented by a series of masterclasses held by Maestro Cristian Măcelaru, designed for each musician to discover and exploit their potential.
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Enescu – A life dedicated to music
”Enescu’s legacy continues to inspire our Romanian cultural heritage. We build on the principles and values of a complete artist, dedicated to the promotion of music, enriching the society that fosters its creation and allowing the transformative powers of its essence to elevate our spirit. On the basis of these principles and rooted in this understanding I am determined to continue building upon the monumental achievements of the Enescu Festival and the Enescu Competition.” – Cristian Măcelaru, Artistic Director