Fernweh IYAC

Competition

An international online competition open to young musicians worldwide. Round 1 online · Round 2 in-person (invitation only).

Download Full Rulebook (PDF)
Structure

How It Works

Round 1

Online Submission

Open to all eligible participants across Standard and Open categories. Submit a YouTube video link by the deadline.

  • 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Place awarded in each category
  • Entry fee: $80 per entry
  • Results announced via website and email
Round 2

In-Person — Invitation Only

Exclusive to Open category participants who receive an individual jury invitation. Held in-person at a venue to be announced.

  • Jury selects invitees at their discretion
  • Grand Prize awarded to one outstanding performer
  • Entry fee: $150 per entry (invited only)
  • Same repertoire as Round 1 required
Categories

Standard & Open Categories

Standard categories are designed for students of all levels. Categories are divided by age group and years of study. Experience level is based on formal years of study on the entered instrument.

CategoryExperienceTime Limit
Cat. 11 year or less5 min
Cat. 22 years or less5 min
Cat. 33 years or less5 min
Cat. 4More than 3 years7 min
Instruments

Eligible Instruments

Piano

  • All solo piano repertoire is welcome

Strings

  • Violin
  • Viola
  • Cello
  • Double Bass
  • Harp

Woodwinds

  • Flute
  • Oboe
  • Clarinet
  • Bassoon
  • Saxophone

Brass

  • Trumpet
  • Horn
  • Trombone
  • Euphonium
  • Tuba
Rules

Key Requirements

Memorization Required

Sheet music or music stands are not permitted in either round. Videos without memorization will be penalized.

YouTube Submission

Single continuous take. No editing. Public or unlisted. Submit at least 48 hours before the deadline.

Age as of Aug 1

All participants must enter according to their age as of August 1 of the competition year.

Awards

Prizes & Recognition

Round 1 Awards

1stFirst PrizePer category
2ndSecond PrizePer category
3rdThird PrizePer category
Participation CertificateAll participants

The jury is not required to award all placements. Ties are permitted at the jury\'s discretion.

Round 2 — Grand Prize

Grand Prize

The highest honor of the competition, awarded to one outstanding Round 2 participant. Includes a cash award. Full details announced separately each year.

Round 2 invitations are issued entirely at the jury's discretion. Winning Round 1 does not guarantee an invitation.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

More questions? Contact us or read the full rulebook.

Ready to Apply?

Submit your application and let your music speak.

Apply Now