Call for submissions: Chamber music duo contest in Romania

Now in its fourth edition, the competition is organised by the Majura Christ Association in honour of Romanian pianist Suzana Szörenyi with the goal of exposing young musicians to ensemble music while drawing the public towards an authentic understanding of the chamber music genre.

The contest is structured in two sections: Lyric Chamber Duo (voice and piano) and Piano Duo (four hands and two pianos).

It will reward the winners with up to €10 000 ($12 000).

The deadline for submissions is 22 September.

Eligibility

The contest is open to duos composed of members whose combined age do not exceed 75 years at the date of the contest.

How to enter

The registration process takes place exclusively online here.

The registration form must be uploaded together with:

• A short CV.
• A copy of the applicants’ birth certificate or identity document.
• A recent photo of each member of the duo.
• A video uploaded on YouTube (unlisted).
• A single PDF file with all the scores used during the contest.
• Proof of studies (diploma or student certificate).
• Proof of payment of the registration fee.

Video recording

• The recording must have the entire repertoire, without editing.
• The link can be sent after the completed registration form is emailed to [email protected].
• The camera must have a stable angle, in such a way that both contestants can be seen at any moment.
• The audio quality should be of professional standard.

Lyric Chamber Duo

For this section, the interpretation of the poetic text in the original language is mandatory.

First round (online): The repertoire will consist mainly of lieder (cycles and/or separate lieder) and must include works in at least two different languages. It may include only one opera aria. Duration: 20 to 30 minutes.

Final round (live): The repertoire will consist of lied cycles or separate lieder which must include a German lied by Schubert, Schumann or Brahms. The programme will include works in at least two different languages. Duration: 30 to 40 minutes.

Note: In this round, only one work from the first round can be repeated, but not the opera aria.

Piano Duo

Each duo must play (in both rounds) works for four hands and works for two pianos. A balanced proportion is required between the duration of the four hands and two-pianos repertoire.

First round (online): The repertoire will be based on candidates’ choice (separate parts of works, as well as transcriptions and adaptations, are accepted). Duration: 20 to 30 minutes.

Final round (live): The repertoire will be based on the candidates’ choices, which must include a classical work. Duration: 40 to 50 minutes.

For enquiries, send an email to [email protected].

For more information, visit the competition's website.