New Violin Competition Launched in Bogotá, Colombia with $70K Prize Pool

Open to violinists aged up to 30, the inaugural competition will take place from October 31 to November 7, 2025

Colombia’s inaugural 2025 Bogotá International Violin Competition aims to promote excellence in violin performance, and position Bogotá as a leading classical music hub in Latin America; it also hopes to inspire the young people of Bogotá’s “Vamos a la Filarmónica” programs. 

To be held from October 31 to November 7, at the Auditorio Fabio Lozano and the Teatro Mayor Julio Mario Santo Domingo, the competition is open to violinists of all nationalities up to the age of 30 as of May 31, 2025. 

From the Preliminary Round in June, up to 20 participants will be selected for the live Semifinal in Bogotá in November (with all-expenses-paid travel) before a jury of distinguished musicians and educators (to be announced in due course). 

Three candidates will be chosen for the Final, where they will compete for the $30,000 USD First Prize; $20,000 Second Prize; and the Special Prize for the Commissioned Work Performance valued at $20,000. 

Winners will also receive performance opportunities, including contracts for performances at venues in Bogotá and other cities. Notably, the top prize winner will play a concert in the 2026 season of the Bogotá Philharmonic Orchestra.

The application deadline is May 31 at 5 PM Colombia time. For more information and to apply, click here.

Each candidate’s performance will be evaluated on precision, clarity, and control in performance; musicality and expression; repertoire adaptation; plus originality and virtuosity. 

The commissioned work for the competition will be announced in July 2025 and exclusively provided to finalists. Additionally, all participants will have the chance to give masterclasses for up to 10 young violinists.

“Bogotá, designated a UNESCO Creative City of Music, boasts a thriving classical music ecosystem,” reads the competition website. “Its robust public music education system, alongside an outstanding network of youth and professional orchestras, is complemented by world-class theaters and an exceptional concert season. Hosting both the finest national talent and renowned international artists, the city stands as a leading musical hub in the region.”