Ictus International Music Competition

Online Music Competition | Online & Live Educational Resources

Described by David Bilger, former Principal Trumpet of the Philadelphia Orchestra and Professor at the Curtis Institute of Music, as “democratizing music competitions,” Ictus Music was founded to make international music competitions more accessible by eliminating prohibitive travel costs, conference fees, and visa issues. This is achieved by conducting the application and adjudication processes entirely online. Additionally, Ictus International Music Competition places a strong emphasis on education. The competition’s website, social media, and YouTube channel offer free resources to the public, featuring video interviews and performances by the distinguished musicians serving as jury members. These interviews provide valuable insights into their careers, their early experiences in music, practical advice on practicing, criteria they consider during adjudication, tips for auditioning for professional music positions, and perspectives on the future of classical music. The performance videos serve as a substitute for the traditional live concerts typically held by most competitions to showcase the jury. Beginning in the summer of 2025, Ictus Music will expand its educational offerings by hosting live workshops, starting with trumpet.

While it is not the intention of the competition to replace live music performance, Ictus aims to enhance the perception of classical music and music performance through this accessible international platform. In the three years it has run, the competition has attracted over 500 participants from 25 countries, including bands, orchestras, and trumpet soloists.

The competition upholds a high artistic standard through its jury, composed of internationally renowned musicians. Ictus International Music Competition jury members have performed with or conducted some of the world’s leading orchestras and chamber ensembles, including the Philadelphia Orchestra, Concertgebouw Orchestra, Chicago Symphony, Boston Symphony, New York Philharmonic, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Canadian Brass, and more.