The Aalborg International Guitar Competition is a competition event for classical guitarists from around the world. Category I is open to university or conservatory students as well as professional players who must be no more than 35 years old at the start of the competition.
The competition takes place in three phases. In the preliminary round (November 19, 2026, 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.), participants present a free program of maximum 12 minutes, which must include music from at least two different historical periods. The semifinal takes place on November 20, 2026, 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., where playing time increases to 18–20 minutes. In both rounds, repertoire cannot be repeated between rounds. The final (November 21, 2026, 8:00 p.m.–10:30 p.m.) allows playing time of 20–25 minutes, and previous programs may be re-selected here. Semifinalists are announced on November 19 after the concert, and finalists are announced on November 20.
The entry fee is 1,800 Danish kroner (250 euros) and covers free access to all concerts, free accommodation from November 18–22, 2026 (possibly with a host family), and free meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner on November 21 and breakfast and lunch on November 22). Participants who do not reach the final are offered a free one-hour masterclass.
Prizes: First prize consists of a master guitar from guitar builder Henrik Ballowitz (value 5,000 euros), 2,000 euros in cash, performances at four concerts in 2027 (with honorarium of 2,200 euros plus hotel and accommodation), music video session at The Hideout Studio, and online album release. Second and third prizes include cash prizes (500 and 300 euros), video session, guitar stand, and accessories. The audience prize is determined by the public at the final.
Practical information: The competition is held at Aalborg Libraries, Foredragssalen, Rendsburggade 2, 9000 Aalborg (first and second rounds) and Klassisk Sal, Musikkens Hus, Aalborg (final). The order of participants is drawn by lottery the evening before the first round. Registration deadline is October 1, 2026, and cancellations must be notified no later than that date. The jury consists of members from Denmark, the Czech Republic, France, Italy, and Portugal, with Frederik Munk Larsen as chair.
