Competition for Solo Classical Guitar

Boston GuitarFest XXI

The BGFest XXI Academy Performance Competition is open to participants enrolled in the Boston GuitarFest XXI Academy program.

First round: Participants must submit a video made specifically for the BGFest XXI Academy Performance Competition. A legible poster (or a sign) with the words "2026 Boston GuitarFest XXI Competition" must also be visible behind you for the duration of the video. Candidates should introduce themselves and the pieces they will play at the beginning of the video (directly before the first piece). The verbal introduction must include the following sentence: "This is my recording for the 2026 Boston GuitarFest XXI Academy, round 1, performance competition."
- Please perform two to three pieces in contrasting styles that you love to play. Total duration should be between 10-15 minutes.
- Finalists will be announced by: May 31st, 2026.
Second (Final) Round: The four finalists must select a new program (not including works performed in the first round) exhibiting a variety of musical styles of their choice, about 20 minutes in duration. The final round will be held live on June 17th, 2026, at 7:30pm, in Cambridge, MA, at The Foundry.
The decisions of the jury are final.
The first prize winner will perform a solo recital (20–30 minute duration) as part of the final concert and event of Boston GuitarFest on Sunday, June 21st, 2026. The 2nd and 3rd prize winners will also be invited to perform in this concert.