Cellist David Geber on the Naumburg International Cello Competition

Applications for this year's event are due on August 18

Established in 1926 by banker and amateur cellist Walter Wehle Naumburg, the Walter W. Naumburg Foundation and its competitions support young classical musicians to launch their professional careers.

This year’s cello edition will award the first prize winner $25,000, two fully subsidized NYC recitals, and a commissioned work. Second prize is valued at $15,000, while third place is awarded with $10,000.

A completed application form for the cello edition and all required materials must be submitted by August 18, 2024. To apply, click here.

We talked with cellist and Vice President of the Walter W. Naumburg Foundation David Geber to get an inside look at the upcoming competition.

Tell us about the Naumburg competition. After over 50 years, what do you think are the most important aspects of a respected competition? 

Naumburg strives to advance outstanding performers with equal emphasis on technical mastery and high-level musicianship. We provide support for laureates well beyond each competition including commissioning projects, multiple recitals in major venues and abundant social media presence.  They become members of the Naumburg “family.”

Do you have a favorite memory from your time with the organization? 

There are so many!!  Naturally, winning the Chamber Music Award in 1974 was incredibly exciting but the most meaningful memory involves the inspiration of working with Robert Mann on the Board of Directors. That tradition continues today in my work with Nicholas Mann.

How important do you feel competitions are for launching a young musician’s performance career?

Competitions can certainly fast-track the beginnings of a career, however sustained success is a different matter.  Interestingly, many past Naumburg contestants who were not laureates have still enjoyed highly successful careers in all branches of the field.

What is your best piece of advice for young artists preparing for a competition such as this one?

Keep musical, technical, career, and life goals in equal balance every step of the way.

The competitors get to pick their repertoire for two full-length recital programs. What do you hope to learn about the competitors with this requirement?

The repertoire requirements are significant, however they allow contestants to express themselves in important ways.  We are always interested to understand an applicant’s musical values as well as their spirit of adventure in performance.

How does the organization choose which instrument to feature each edition? 

The Foundation currently holds separate competitions for 8 solo instruments as well as voice and chamber music on a rotational basis.

As a cellist yourself, what are you looking for in this year’s winner?

Authentic music making which both includes and surpasses the objective levels of clean and technically accomplished playing.  I am interested in performances that both move and energize me.

What are you most looking forward to at this year’s edition? 

New and exciting talent!