Anna-Amalia Competition for Young Guitarists

Anna-Amalia Competition for Young Guitarists takes place in Weimar, Germany. It is held every two years, usually in April.

Repertoire requirements

Age group I: Program of 12–15 min duration from at least three different epochs, including a classical and a contemporary piece. Age group II: Program of 17-20 min duration, including a classical work and a contemporary compulsory piece*. Age group III: 1st Round: Program of 12-15 min duration, including a Minuet from op. 11, No. 5–8, by Fernando Sor and a contemporary compulsory piece* Finale: Program of 17-20 min duration, including a classical work. *Compulsory pieces: Romeo Wecks: Schattenreflexionen; Ilias Rachaniotis: Stück für die Jugend; Martin Schley: Etüden.

Official website

https://www.gitarreverein-weimar.de/

Visiting? A guitarist's guide to Weimar

In the heart of Thuringia, the city of Weimar stands as a monument to German cultural history, a place where literary giants, revolutionary architecture, and pivotal political moments converged. It is against this rich backdrop that the biennial Anna-Amalia Competition for Young Guitarists unfolds, bringing emerging talent to a setting steeped in intellectual and artistic heritage. A visit here offers a unique blend of musical discovery and profound historical exploration.

Getting there

The most convenient way to reach Weimar is by train. Deutsche Bahn provides direct long-distance connections from major German cities like Berlin, Leipzig, Erfurt, and Frankfurt, alongside regional services from Göttingen, Jena, and Gera. Weimar Hauptbahnhof is about a kilometer from Goetheplatz, the city's central hub; a pleasant ten-minute downhill stroll along Carl-August-Allee leads directly into the city centre, or you can take one of several bus lines (2, 3, 3A, 3B, 6) which reach Goetheplatz in minutes for a fare of €1.60. For air travel, Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) is the closest international gateway, requiring an S-Bahn transfer to Leipzig or Halle main station for onward regional or long-distance train connections. Frankfurt Airport (FRA) offers a faster train journey, often with a change in Erfurt, making it another viable option for international arrivals. Weimar is also accessible via the A4 Autobahn, though roads can be congested during peak times.

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Where to stay

Weimar is a compact and highly walkable city, making it easy to settle in and explore on foot. To be at the heart of the action, base yourself in or near the city centre, where charming hotels and guesthouses offer convenient access to the competition venues and the wealth of cultural sights. Booking ahead is advisable, especially around event dates, to secure a comfortable stay that allows you to fully immerse yourself in Weimar's unique atmosphere.

What you'll hear

The Anna-Amalia Competition for Young Guitarists draws promising talent to Weimar, providing a platform for emerging artists to showcase their skill. As a biennial event, it offers a focused opportunity to hear the next generation of classical guitarists perform a diverse repertoire, highlighting the instrument's expressive range and technical demands. The competition's rounds present a chance to witness intense musical dedication and artistic interpretation in a city that itself has long fostered creativity.

Beyond the competition, Weimar boasts a significant musical past. The city was home to composer Franz Liszt, whose former residence is now a museum (Liszt House), open for visitors to explore his life and work. Even earlier, from 1708 to 1717, Johann Sebastian Bach served as the court organist here, adding to Weimar's profound legacy as a centre for classical music. These historical connections provide a rich context for any music lover attending the competition.

The local table

Thuringia is known for hearty German cuisine. Expect traditional fare that is satisfying and robust. Look for restaurants serving regional specialties, often featuring local meats and potato dishes, reflecting the culinary traditions of central Germany. The city offers a range of dining experiences, from casual eateries to more formal establishments, ensuring there are options to suit all tastes throughout your stay.

Fancy a guided taste? Food and wine tours in Weimar →

While you're there

Weimar is exceptionally rich in cultural and historical sights, many of which are managed by the Klassik Stiftung Weimar, offering combination tickets for access to multiple sites. Begin with the iconic Goethe-Schiller Monument on Theaterplatz, then explore the homes of these literary giants: Goethe's residence and his summer house in the picturesque Park an der Ilm. The Park also features the intriguing Park Cave, a system of tunnels. Delve into the city's architectural legacy at the Bauhaus-Museum Weimar, which showcases the influential art and design movement born here, and visit the Bauhaus-University and the Haus am Horn, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Other historical landmarks include the Stadtschloss (City Castle) with its art gallery, the famous Anna Amalia Bibliothek, renowned for its Rococo Hall, and the Nationaltheater, where Germany's first democratic constitution was signed. For a deeper understanding of 20th-century history, the Haus der Weimarer Republik provides insights into this pivotal period, and the Museum of Forced Labour under National Socialism offers a somber reflection on a darker chapter (recommended for ages 14 and up). For musicians, a visit to the Liszt House, the former residence of Franz Liszt, is a must. Just outside the city, the charming Belvedere park with its summer castle offers a pleasant excursion. Weimar also serves as an excellent base for exploring other Thuringian cities. Erfurt, with its impressive cathedral and Krämerbrücke (merchants' bridge), and Jena, known for its university and optical industry, are both easily reachable by regional train within about an hour, forming the central metropolitan area of Thuringia alongside Weimar.

Tours, tickets and day trips in Weimar →

More guitar events in Germany: ARD International Music Competition (Guitar) · Hamburger Guitar Festival · Hanse Guitar Cup · Heinsberg Guitar Festival and Competition · International Competition for Young Guitarists Andrés Segovia (EGTA) · International Guitar Festival in Hersbruck

Also in April: Concorso Riviera Etrusca · Long Island Guitar Festival · Patras International Guitar Festival Competition · Philadelphia Classical Guitar Competition · Sarajevo International Guitar Festival · SGM Next Generation Competition

Listing data is compiled from official sources and can change each edition. Always confirm dates, deadlines and requirements on the organizer's official website before applying or booking travel. Spotted an error? See our terms or let us know via the About page.

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