Mrs. Karen Goh on the Importance of Female Composers in Salon Music

This year's Violins&Soul Competition is focused on highlighting female composers and their contributions to salon music

Held annually, the AMADEUS Festival Vienna brings together international musicians at the AMADEUS International School Vienna for a series of performances and workshops.

In 2022, the festival launched a competition that focuses solely on the genre of salon music. The Salon Music Violin Competition "Violins&Soul” returns in 2025 for its second edition.

This year marks an especially significant milestone as the festival celebrates its 5th anniversary under the inspiring theme “Women&Culture.” In line with this theme, this year’s competition repertoire includes a special section honoring women composers, highlighting their contributions to the art of salon music.

We talked with Mrs. Karen Goh, Director of AMADEUS Festival Vienna, to learn more about the initiative!

When is it going to take place, and who can apply?

June 26th - 29th, 2025. Artists aged between 15 and 35 years on 31 December 2025 (both inclusive) are eligible.

How do you define salon music?

Salon Music typically refers to a place or setting where musical performances are held, often in an intimate or elegant environment. It can also refer to a specific type of music performance, such as a salon-style concert featuring classical chamber music. The term "salon" has historical roots in the 19th century, particularly in Europe, where it was used to describe intimate gatherings where music, poetry, and other arts were enjoyed in a social setting. Today, "Salon Music" may still evoke the idea of a refined and culturally enriching musical experience.

What have you learned from the previous editions? What will change for this year?

We have just experienced the 1st editions of the Violin & Piano Competitions. There is a need to strengthen our efforts to bring back the true spirit of Salon Music. The form of the competition remains the same, but the repertoire aims to promote and highlight women composers.

We heard that competitors will have to play works by female composers this year. Why did you decide to implement this?

The 5th Edition of AMADEUS Festival Vienna carries the theme “Women&Culture.“ The Violin & Souls competition will dedicate a segment honouring notable women composers.

How did you decide on your set list of pieces? What made those composers stand out to you?

The pieces in one mandatory segment are written by women, allowing competitors to show their virtuosity and express sensitivity to melodic lines.

Why do you think it’s important to give underrepresented composers their time in the spotlight, especially in a competition setting?

We want our audience to hear repertoires less commonly played in competitions.

Who is your favorite female composer, and why?

Many female composers like Cecile Chaminade and Amy Beach invoke auditory senses.

What will the winners receive this year?

The Grand Prize winner will be awarded a cash prize of €5,000 and a two-year loan of the 1709 Antonio Stradivari violin from the Goh Family Collection. The Second and Third Prize winners will be awarded €3,000 and €1,000, respectively. More information can be found on our website.

What are you most looking forward to at the competition?

We are looking for a voice that speaks. Artists that bring “soul” to our beautiful Festival.

Learn more about the Competition & Rules of Entry here: https://www.amadeusfestival.com/eng/violins-soul-competition