Gaudeamus International Music Competition

The Gaudeamus Competition (primarily known as the **Gaudeamus Award**) is an international competition for young composers and contemporary music creators, organized by the Gaudeamus Foundation in the Netherlands. It focuses on innovative, experimental, and contemporary classical music, and is one of the best-known international platforms for emerging composers. The competition is **not a high school–specific event**; it is generally open to young composers up to around age 30 (exact age limits can vary by edition) from any country. Participants submit original works, and selected finalists are invited to have their pieces performed during the Gaudeamus Festival in Utrecht, where an international jury awards the Gaudeamus Award. High school students who are exceptionally advanced in composition and meet the age and portfolio expectations could potentially participate, but it is aimed mainly at early-career composers rather than typical high school musicians. Benefits include international exposure, professional performances of participants’ works by skilled ensembles, feedback from established composers and jurors, and the opportunity to build a network in the contemporary music scene. Winners and finalists often gain significant recognition and further career opportunities in contemporary music and composition.