Violists! The 54th International Jeunesses Musicales Competition in Belgrade is for you!

From March 20th to 29th, 2026, the world’s most talented young violists will gather in Belgrade, Serbia, for a long-awaited edition of this prestigious international music competition.

The International Jeunesses Musicales Competition (IJMC), founded in 1971, returns in 2026 with a focus on viola — a category last featured in 1982. This is a rare and exciting opportunity for emerging violists from around the globe to showcase their artistry on an international stage.

Held annually at the historic Ilija M. Kolarac Endowment, the IJMC has, since 1974, been a proud member of the World Federation of International Music Competitions (WFIMC) in Geneva — joining the ranks of competitions such as Maria Callas (Athens), Queen Elisabeth (Brussels), Jean Sibelius (Helsinki), J.S. Bach (Leipzig), Prague Spring (Prague), and Paganini (Genoa). The competition is also a flagship project of JM International (JMI), based in Brussels.

Over the decades, the IJMC has welcomed over 2000 soloists and 200 chamber ensembles from more than 70 countries across all continents, supporting the most promising young musicians at the beginning of their careers.

Applications are now open to violists of all nationalities aged 15 to 35. The application deadline is on January 15th, 2026, 11:59 PM (CET).

Prizes include:
1. First Prize – €3000 + concert opportunities
2. Second Prize – €2000
3. Third Prize – €1000

Applications are now open to violists of all nationalities aged 15 to 35. The application deadline is on January 15th, 2026, 11:59 PM (CET). Apply here!

Click here for more information, rules and repertoire.