The SJMW between anniversary and new beginnings

But an anniversary, as glamorous as it may be, is not an end point, but a threshold. While the sounds of the celebrations still reverberate, the SJMW opens a new chapter with the 51st edition of its competition and invites young musicians from all over Switzerland to once again contribute to the history of the competition.

In 2026, the competition is divided into three disciplines - Classica, Composition and FreeSpace - and thus offers spaces ranging from interpretation to creativity.

In the solo category, special attention will be paid in 2026 to the rich timbres of string, wind and percussion instruments. Violin, viola, violoncello, double bass, flute, recorder, oboe, clarinet, saxophone, bassoon, harp, accordion, dulcimer, pan flute and classical percussion will all be taking part. This diverse sound palette invites you to explore the most varied musical worlds: from the lyrical intimacy of the violin to the archaic, surprising voice of the dulcimer to the pastoral breath of the pan flute and the rhythmic energy of the saxophone.

In the Composition category, young composers are invited to "paint with sound" so that their ideas and inspirations become living scores - fresh and imaginative.

FreeSpace, on the other hand, is a free terrain, a crossroads for improvisation, electronics, performative arts and experimental formats. Jazz and new technologies are heard here as well as multimedia installations.

What makes this competition unique is, as always, its basic idea of giving young people a stage on which they can showcase their talent and dedication - in a dialog that knows no linguistic or cultural boundaries. Those who take part enter a tradition that has already inspired numerous international careers.

The SJMW knows that each participant brings a unique story: a swinging bow, a breath that becomes a melody, a percussion that marks the pulse of the future. This is why the competition is not just a contest, but also a laboratory for growth and a place of encounter where you learn to listen to others and to yourself. The call is therefore clear: to take part in this musical adventure, to contribute your own sound, your own idea of beauty and your own desire to transcend boundaries.

The new half-century is just around the corner, and the first note is already floating in the air - ready to connect with the sounds of all those who have the courage to lift the bow, elicit a sound from their instrument with their breath and make a young, curious heart resound. Whether experienced performers or creators of new forms - the SJMW awaits everyone.