Key features of the Gisborne International Music Competition

The Gisborne International Music Competition has established a reputation for running a world class music competition that is unique in Australasia for it’s inclusion of all orchestral instruments, in an international context.

The format is that of a recital style competition. Competitors submit a programme of 45 - 60 minutes covering at least two musical periods and including at least one unaccompanied work. In the first and semi rounds competitors perform 25 – 30 minutes of music selected for them by the jurors from their nominated programmes. The finalists then present a recital of 30 - 35 minutes. (Please check the Competition Rules and Conditions for precise details)

Official competition accompanists are made available to all competitors. The pianists engaged for the 2011 Gisborne International Music Competition, Rosemary Barnes, Richard Mapp and Sarah Watkins are three of New Zealand’s most experienced accompanists.

Over $20,000 prize money is awarded annually, including special prizes for New Zealand and international string, woodwind and brass/percussion players, for the most promising player, for the best performance of a work by a New Zealand composer and the Peoples Choice Busking Award.

An invitation is extended to competitors not playing in the final to meet individually with the jurors to discuss their performance.

There are opportunities for competitors to play for the Gisborne community at local schools and retirement homes and at the outdoor “Concert Under the Leaves". 

Billeted accomodation is offered to all competitors during the competition.

The high number of returning competitors proves the competition has successfully achieved a balance in providing a challenging but supportive musical environment and the relaxed and friendly nature of Gisborne has made it the perfect place to host such a special event. Competitors return year after year for the beauty of the natural environment and for the warm support they receive from the Gisborne community.