Utrecht Early Music Festival opens two opportunities for young Early Music performers

Oude Musiek Utrecht, the celebrated Dutch Early Music festival, is now accepting applications from period-instrument ensembles for its celebrated International Van Wassenaer Competition.

Rotating between musical eras annually, this year's edition focuses on repertoire from the Middle Ages and Renaissance. It is open to both instrumental and vocal ensembles whose members are under 33 years old in September 2026.

After pre-selection by video, the international jury will select four ensembles from the 12 semi-finalists to progress to the final, where they will present a 20-25 minute programme to compete for cash prizes and a concert tour. All finalists also receive a masterclass voucher which can be used for a coaching session with a musician of their choice.

Last year's winners of the top prizes were Ossian's Dream (Switzerland) & Duo Yamane (Japan), with British success in previous editions from Apollo's Cabinet (1st prize, 2024) and Ensemble Hesperi (3rd prize, 2021).

Alongside the International Van Wassenaer Competition, the festival is now also considering entries for the Festival Oude Muziek Fringe, a series of pay-what-you-can events around Utrecht that showcases young talent in the international Early Music sector.

More information about both opportunities and application forms can be found on the Oude Muziek Utrecht website. To learn more about the festival itself, check out our Feature article In its place: Utrecht's living feast of Early Music.