Young Musicians' Award for String Players

The National Concert Hall Young Musician Award for String Players is made biennially in support of the development of talented young musicians in Ireland.

The award was instigated following a benefit concert in 2007 by Anne-Sophie Mutter and the Trondheim Soloists Chamber Orchestra, who generously donated their fees in support of the Learning & Participation programme of the National Concert Hall.

Candidate Requirements

Check what you will need to apply

Award(s) will be made on the basis of a competitive process. The total award fund is up to €10,000 biennially and may be made to one or two young musicians at the discretion of the judging panel.

– The competition is open to young classical string players of violin, viola, cello or double-bass;
– Candidates must be Irish or living in Ireland;
– Candidates must be between the ages of 13-17 as of the closing date

The award may be used for further study or towards an instrument upgrade.

Competition and Selection Requirements for 2023

Round 1 Candidates are required to:

Submit a completed application form.
Provide an audio recording of no more than 15 minutes solo or accompanied solo performance. The recording should be in mp3 format shared via a file sharing service to education@nch.ie.
Submit the completed application form and recording by the stated deadline.

Based on the application and recording, a specialist panel of judges will select a shortlist of candidates to go forward to a second round.

Round 2
Shortlisted musicians will be invited to perform for the panel of judges at the National Concert Hall and will be required to:

Perform a programme of no more than 20 minutes’ duration.
Undertake a short interview with the panel.
Candidates must provide their own accompanist, if required.

The panel may make one or two awards, at its discretion, to a maximum of €10,000.