If you are not sure what a concerto is, the simplest definition describes it as a composition for soloist and orchestra. This year is an instrumental competition, which excludes piano.

The format of the competition is divided into two stages.  In December 2020, preliminaries were held, where six contestants were chosen for the semi-final and from this, three contestants go onto the final.

The competition has always been based in Christchurch, something the Trust is very proud of, and being a national competition it attracts competitors from all over New Zealand.

The finalists will play their concertos accompanied by the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra and conducted by Kenneth Young.

The competition has built a strong national reputation and provides our young musicians with an opportunity of up-skilling their music performances with many competitors seeing the competition has a "stepping stone" and have gone onto prominent careers in the music industry both nationally and internationally.

This competition is about young people, amazing musicians and challenging music works. 

Come along, show your support and be wowed.