Home — Classic Winds 2027

26 April – 5 May 2027
 Vienna, Austria
Clarinet · Flute · Saxophone
International Competition
THE APPLICATION DEADLINE IS THE 15th OF JANUARY 2027

About the competition

Following the tremendous reception enjoyed in 2023, the acclaimed Classic Winds International Competition is back for its fifth entry in 2027, returning to its European heartland with a stunning edition set to be held at the MuTh Concert Hall in the vibrant city of Vienna, Austria, one of the world’s major music capitals. Merging together past, present, and future, Classic Winds looks to build on its stellar reputation as one of the finest platforms for upcoming wind players all across the globe, celebrating the artistry of these storied instruments, while offering a unique opportunity for emerging talent. Participants will compete across various categories, with practitioners of the saxophone, the clarinet, and the flute performing in front of a distinguished jury of world-class musicians, with a Final Round alongside the acclaimed Győr Philharmonic Orchestra, as they go head-to-head for a stunning prize fund of €120,000. With its commitment to excellence and innovation, Classic Winds continues to inspire and shape the next generation of wind performers, solidifying its place as a leading event in the classical music calendar.

Konstantin <br> Ishkhanov — Classic Winds 2027

Konstantin
Ishkhanov

President
of the Classic Winds
International Competition

Dear Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is with great pleasure that I welcome you to the fifth edition of the Classic Winds International Competition, set to take place in the magnificent city of Vienna in 2027. Vienna, a city synonymous with musical greatness, offers an inspiring setting for what promises to be another unforgettable celebration of wind music and artistic talent.

Classic Winds has always been dedicated to fostering the next generation of musicians, creating opportunities for emerging artists to shine on the global stage, and celebrating the enduring artistry of wind instruments. This competition is particularly special as it stands as one of the rare and prestigious platforms dedicated exclusively to the artistry of Flute, Saxophone and Clarinet. The event not only honors these storied instruments but also offers a unique opportunity for their performers to excel and showcase their skills.

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Hansjörg <br>Schellenberger — Classic Winds 2027

Hansjörg
Schellenberger

Artistic Director
of the Classic Winds
International Competition

Dear Ladies and Gentlemen,

I am very pleased to welcome you to the 2027 edition of the Classic Winds International Competition!

Gathered here in Vienna, a city that is synonymous with the majesty of classical music, we are proud to be celebrating the beauty and versatility of wind instruments, from the lyrical warmth of the clarinet, to the brilliance of the flute, and the inimitable voice of the saxophone. Each of these instruments offers a distinctly different character, and it is this richness that lies at the heart of Classic Winds, and indeed, has done so from the competition’s very beginning.

Since its inception, Classic Winds has sought not only to recognise technical excellence, but to nurture musicians who possess a genuine artistic voice.

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Prizes

Saxophone:
1st prize
€20,000
2nd prize
€10,000
3rd prize
€5,000
Clarinet:
1st prize
€20,000
2nd prize
€ 10,000
3rd prize
€5,000
Flute:
1st prize
€20,000
2nd prize
€ 10,000
3rd prize
€5,000
Special Prizes
Grand Prix €10,000
5,000 Audience Choice Award
will be presented to the best voted finalist from audiences around the world.
Viewers will be invited to cast their votes, and this prize will be awarded to the contestant whose performance resonates most strongly with the public.
Total Prize Fund: €120,000

The Classic Winds
International Competition
starts in:

Dates

Round 1

26-28 April, 2027

Round 2

30 April – 2 May, 2027

Final Round with Orchestra

3-5 May, 2027

Venue

MuTh Concert Hall

Orchestra

Győr Philharmonic Orchestra

(Hungary)

Venue: The MuTh

The MuTh

The MuTh is the most modern concert and theater hall in Vienna, offering a diverse program with classical and choral music, pop & jazz, electronic music, as well as opera and musical theater, all with top acoustics and comfort.

Having opened in 2012 with an inaugural concert by the Vienna Philharmonic and the Vienna Boys’ Choir, MuTh represents a meeting-point for music and theatre. MuTh promotes classical and avantgarde alike, and always stands for openness and diversity. With comprehensive stage facilities and a configurable orchestra pit, MuTh can function equally well as a theatre and as a concert hall.

Latest news

20 May 2026
Hansjörg Schellenberger Appointed Artistic Director and Chairman of Classic Winds International Competition 2027
The Classic Winds International Competition is honoured to announce the appointment of Hansjörg Schellenberger as Artistic Director and Chairman of its fifth edition, to be held in Vienna in 2027.
19 May 2026
MuTh Concert Hall Announced as Official Venue for Classic Winds International Competition 2027
The Classic Winds International Competition is delighted to announce the MuTh Concert Hall in Vienna, Austria, as the official venue for its highly anticipated fifth edition in 2027.
18 May 2026
Classic Winds International Competition Returns to Vienna for a Spectacular Fifth Edition in 2027
Following the remarkable success and international acclaim of its previous editions, the Classic Winds International Competition proudly returns in 2027 for its highly anticipated fifth edition, bringing its celebrated platform for wind excellence back to the heart of Europe.