BRISBANE MUSIC COMPETITION
Unleash Your Musical Talent!
Why the Brisbane Music Competition Matters
A Global Stage for Young Musicians
Brisbane International Youth Music Competition (BIYMC)
The Brisbane International Youth Music Competition (BIYMC), established in 2012, has grown into a highly anticipated global event for emerging young musicians. This prestigious competition provides a distinguished platform for talented performers to showcase their artistry, gain international recognition, and further their musical development.
BIYMC welcomes participants aged 13 to 25, offering performance opportunities across Strings, Piano, Wind instruments, and Voice. The competition is conducted entirely online, allowing musicians from around the world to participate by submitting recorded performances. This format ensures accessibility, inclusivity, and global reach, enabling young musicians to compete regardless of geographical location.
All rounds are adjudicated by a panel of Australian and international judges, ensuring a fair, diverse, and professional evaluation process. The competition culminates in the Winners Concert, held at the historic Brisbane City Hall, Ithaca Auditorium, where selected top performers are celebrated for their outstanding musical achievements.
How the Competition Works
BIYMC is a multi-stage music competition offering young performers the opportunity to be assessed by experienced adjudicators, gain performance experience, and take part in a professionally organised concert environment.
Participants are selected through a structured process that includes video entry, live performance stages, and final concert opportunities.
Our goal is to provide a fair, encouraging, and professionally run platform for developing musicians.
With the convenience of online submission, students can participate from anywhere, making the competition accessible, affordable, and flexible for busy families and schools.
Following the online judging, selected top performers are invited to be featured in the prestigious Winners Concert and Award Ceremony, held at the historic Brisbane City Hall, Ithaca Auditorium. This celebratory event recognises outstanding musical achievement and provides young artists with the honour of being showcased on one of Brisbane’s most iconic stages.
Judging and Impact
Opportunities for Growth and Recognition
The BIYMC is judged by a panel of esteemed musicians and industry professionals, ensuring a rigorous and fair evaluation process. Furthermore, the competition serves as a platform for talented musicians to connect with industry professionals and gain exposure, opening doors to future collaborations and opportunities.
Overall, the Brisbane International Youth Music Competition is a powerful platform for young musicians to showcase their talent, receive valuable feedback, and gain recognition on an international level. It provides a nurturing environment for aspiring musicians to grow their skills and achieve their goals. Whether through online participation or live showcases, the BIYMC offers a unique opportunity for young musicians to express their creativity and shine on the global stage.
key dates
The competition dates have now been finalised and will follow the timeline below.
APPLICATIONS OPEN
Applications Close
Finalists announcement
EARLY BIRD FINISHED
Semi Final Results
Gala Concert TBC
COMPETITION REQUIREMENTS
Opportunity for Winners to Perform and Learn Abroad
The following must be received by BIYMF before an application can be accepted:
- A complete online application form with a copy of the applicant’s passport or birth certificate. All applicable information must be completed.
- A link (youTube/Vimeo/Dailymotion etc.) to the recording of the applicant performing their audition repertoire
- Payment of the $149.99 AUD non-refundable application fee to be paid online during the submission of the application form Please note, that the application fee will increase to $180.00 AUD after the early-bird cut-off date
A single entry fee covers full participation in the BIYMF Presto Competition.
This includes:
- Entry into the competition (video submission round)
- Eligibility for semi-final selection
- Eligibility for final selection
- Professional adjudication Official certificate of participation
- Consideration for awards and winners concert performance
There are no additional fees required for progression through competition stages.
- Competitors for the opening round must record one piece of your choice with no time limit.
- Semi Finalists – are to perform two contrasting pieces of your choice with no time limit.
- Finalists – the judging panel will choose one of two pieces to be performed live in the final at the gala concert where the winners will be announced.
Competitors must ensure that a copy of their sheet music is provided to the festival coordinator at the start of the day of their scheduled semi final. Please note that photocopies will not be returned.
The Festival reserves the right to record, film, web-stream or broadcast any part of the Festival events. Competitors must grant BIYMF the sole and exclusive right to use of these recordings.
BIYMF can assist with arranging an accompanist for semifinal/final performances. Please contact the festival coordinator for further details or visit the accompanist guild website at https://accompanistsguildofqld.wordpress.com .
Payment for performances and rehearsals must be arranged and negotiated between the competitor and accompanist.
The 15 minute time limit must be strictly adhered to. Competitors may be penalised and/or cut off if they exceed the time limit.
The cost of travel to the competition will be borne by the competitor. Those requiring assistance with booking accommodation, transport or tours can contact the festival coordinator.
Accepted semifinalists are responsible to apply for a travel visa to Australia where necessary and to hold sufficient travel, accident and health insurance for the duration of their stay.
The judging panel is composed of a minimum of 5 distinguished, international musicians and all decisions of the panel are final. The judges reserve the right to withhold any prize or award should the required standard not be achieved.
Entry fee
A single $149.99 per application (all-inclusive) entry fee covers full participation in the BIYMF Presto Competition.
This includes:
– Entry into the competition (video submission round)
– Eligibility for semi-final selection
– Eligibility for final selection
– Professional adjudication
– Official certificate of participation
– Consideration for awards and winners concert performance
There are no additional fees required for progression through competition stages.
Optional Development Opportunities
To further support musical growth, optional enhancements are available:
– Detailed written adjudicator feedback
– Masterclasses with adjudicators or guest educators
– Professional media (photo/video packages where available)
These options are entirely voluntary and designed to enhance learning and development.
Winners Concert
The Winners Concert celebrates outstanding performances in a professional concert setting.
– Performer participation: included in entry fee
This event highlights excellence and provides students with valuable stage experience in front of a live audience.
Optional Development Opportunities
To further support musical growth, optional enhancements are available:
– Detailed written adjudicator feedback
– Masterclasses with adjudicators or guest educators
– Additional category entries at discounted rates
– Professional media (photo/video packages where available)
These options are entirely voluntary and designed to enhance learning and development.
