Music competitions in Norway

Top of the World International Piano Competition

Top of the World International Piano Competition takes place every two years in magnificent Tromsø. Top of the World was arranged for the first time in 2009. It has since then become one of the most important classical music events in Northern Norway, attracting some of the best young pianists from all over the world, as well as a highly distinguished international jury.

In the intervening years Top of the World organises a Youth Masterclass with the previous year's competition winner. The Barent region's greatest piano talents in the age group 12-17 are invited to participate.

For more information, see www.topoftheworld.no

Trondheim International Chamber Music Competition

Trondheim International Chamber Music Competition was arranged for the first time in 2000. The Competition takes place every second year and alternates between presenting string quartets and piano trios. An academy for the forthcoming year's ensemble type is arranged in the years between the competitions.

Both the competition and the academy have a particular focus on young musicians, and are open to chamber ensembles from all over the world. The competition takes place during the Trondheim Chamber Music Festival and participants have free access to the festival’s concerts. 

For more information, see www.ticc.no

The International Edvard Grieg Piano Competition

The International Edvard Grieg Piano Competition was founded in 2000 by professor Einar Steen-Nøkleberg, and from 2000 till 2011 the competition was located at the Norwegian Academy of Music in Oslo. In 2012 the competition moved to Troldhaugen, Edvard Grieg's picturesque home on the outskirts of Bergen. With this move, the prizes increased and the Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra entered as the orchestra for the final round.

The competition seeks to offer participants not only a world-class event, but also the unique opportunity to gain an understanding of Grieg’s world of inspiration by experiencing Norwegian hospitality, culture and nature.

For more information, see www.griegcompetition.com

The Princess Astrid International Music Prize

The Princess Astrid International Music Prize goes back to 1952 and is arranged every two years by Trondheim Symphony Orchestra. Previous prizewinners include outstanding soloists such as Arve Tellefsen and Kjell Bækkelund. Princess Astrid, Mrs. Ferner is the patron of Trondheim Symphony Orchestra.

The Princess Astrid International Music Prize is currently awarded to conductors. Since 2014, the competition has been open to artists of all nationalities. 

For more information, please click here.