Young talents and new perspectives: The 2026 final of the Swiss Youth Music Competition

From 30 April to 3 May 2026, Zurich was once again the center of the young Swiss music scene. After the regional Entrada rounds in March, 378 young musicians from all language regions of Switzerland qualified for the final of the 51st edition of the SJMW. The participants presented their programs in the categories Classica, Composition and FreeSpace and impressed with their great stylistic diversity and individual artistic approaches.

The auditions and rehearsals took place at various locations in Zurich, including the MKZ Florhof, the Hirschengraben school building and the University of Zurich. For four days, the city was characterized by music, encounters and intensive exchange. In addition to a high level of concentration and impressive artistic performances, the open and inspiring atmosphere of the competition was particularly noticeable.

The participants were accompanied by a total of 83 jury members from different areas of the Swiss and international music scene. Through their evaluations and discussions with the young musicians, the competition not only offers them a stage every year, but also important musical and educational impulses.

The results also underline the high standard of this year's edition. A total of 30 certificates and 332 diplomas were awarded in the Classica category: 59 first prizes with distinction, 90 first prizes, 116 second prizes and 67 third prizes. In the Composition and FreeSpace categories, the jury also awarded four first prizes with distinction, five first prizes, four second prizes and one third prize.

The festive highlight was traditionally the prizewinners' concert on Sunday, May 4, in the Great Hall of the MKZ. In front of an enthusiastic audience, selected prizewinners presented a varied and musically impressive program. In addition to the high quality, the musical expressiveness and natural stage presence of the young artists were particularly impressive. The recording of the concert by SRF 2 Kultur lent additional attention to this special occasion.

However, the SJMW not only stands for musical excellence, but also for community and support. Behind every performance are dedicated teachers, supportive families, companions and institutions that accompany young people on their musical path. It is precisely this interaction that has made the competition an important platform for the promotion of young musical talent in Switzerland for many years.

Outlook for the 2027 edition

With the successful conclusion of the 2026 final, the focus is already turning to the next edition of the competition. The 2027 regional Entrada rounds will take place from February 26 to 28 in Arbon, Geneva, Lugano, Neuchâtel, Sion, Winterthur and Zug.

The final will then be held in Lucerne from April 8 to 11, 2027. There, young musicians from all over Switzerland will once again have the opportunity to meet each other, exchange experiences and share their enthusiasm for music.

Since 1975, the SJMW has established itself as the national youth music competition. Around 1000 young people take part every year. Even though we always strive to organize our competitions and support programmes as cost-efficiently as possible, we are dependent on your support.

All donations are tax-exempt and can be made to the following account IBAN CH27 0026 1261 1705 3740 K.

Thank you very much for your valuable support!