Austin Classical Guitar Composition Competition
Austin, TX, USA · Classical guitar competition
Austin Classical Guitar Composition Competition takes place in Austin, TX, USA. It is held every year.
- Location
- Austin, TX, USA
- Type
- Competition
- Frequency
- Annual
- Eligibility / age
- Open
- Prizes
- Cash + professional recording
Repertoire requirements
Composition submissions
Official website
https://austinclassicalguitar.org/
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Check your repertoire matchVisiting? A guitarist's guide to Austin
Austin, the capital of Texas and a vibrant hub known for its "Keep Austin Weird" ethos and status as the "Live Music Capital of the World," offers a unique setting for a classical guitar enthusiast. Annually, the Austin Classical Guitar Composition Competition invites composers to submit new works, fostering the instrument's future repertoire in a city celebrated for its alternative culture and innovation. This event provides a distinct opportunity to engage with contemporary classical guitar within a dynamic American city.
Getting there
Austin is served by Austin Bergstrom International Airport (AUS), located about six miles southeast of the city center. It offers non-stop service from many major carriers to numerous destinations. Upon arrival, travelers have several options to reach downtown, including Capital Metro buses, taxis, ride-share services like Uber and Lyft, shared ride shuttles, or car rentals. Taxi fare to downtown is approximately $30, making for a convenient transfer into the city.
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USA uses Type A/B sockets, so pack a travel adapter for your tuner and chargers.
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Where to stay
As a city embracing its "Keep Austin Weird" slogan, Austin provides diverse accommodation options, from boutique hotels reflecting its unique character to more conventional choices. Staying downtown or near the University of Texas at Austin campus places you close to many attractions and potential competition venues. Austin's popularity means rapid gentrification, but its underlying alternative culture and lively atmosphere persist. Consider visiting in spring or fall, as these seasons offer the most pleasant weather for exploring, avoiding the long, hot summers where daily temperatures often exceed 90-100°F (32-38°C).
What you'll hear
The Austin Classical Guitar Composition Competition focuses on fostering new works for the instrument. It is an annual event that awards a cash prize and professional recording to its first-place winner, encouraging innovation and expansion of the classical guitar repertoire. Attending offers a chance to hear fresh, contemporary compositions and witness the emergence of future significant works in the classical guitar world.
Austin is renowned as the "Live Music Capital of the World," a title it earned through its countless venues showcasing diverse genres from blues and country to rock and indie. While the competition highlights classical guitar, the city's broader musical landscape provides a constant backdrop of vibrant sound. This environment, rich with creative energy, makes Austin an ideal place to experience the evolution of classical guitar music and to connect with the innovative spirit that defines the city's artistic identity.
The local table
Austin's culinary scene is as diverse as its music, celebrated by publications like Edible Austin for its focus on sustainable food practices and local farmers, retailers, and chefs. While specific dishes might vary by establishment, the city and surrounding Central Texas region are renowned for exceptional barbecue, often featuring slow-smoked brisket, ribs, and sausage. Tex-Mex cuisine, with its flavorful tacos, enchiladas, and queso, is another staple, reflecting the region's cultural blend. Seek out food trucks for casual, creative fare, or explore farm-to-table restaurants for a taste of local produce.
Fancy a guided taste? Food and wine tours in Austin →
While you're there
Between competition events, Austin offers a wealth of activities. Explore the Texas State Capitol, a magnificent architectural landmark, or wander through the sprawling campus of the University of Texas at Austin. For a refreshing break, take a dip in Barton Springs Pool, a natural spring-fed swimming hole in Zilker Park that maintains a cool temperature year-round. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding Hill Country, or take a walk along Lady Bird Lake. For those interested in the city's unique culture, a stroll down South Congress Avenue offers quirky shops, murals, and vibrant street life, embodying the "Keep Austin Weird" spirit.
Tours, tickets and day trips in Austin →
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This map centers on Austin in general, so the venue may be elsewhere in town. Check the competition's official website before booking.
More guitar events in USA: Appalachian GuitarFest and Competition · Boston GuitarFest Academy Competition · Brevard Classical Guitar Institute · Denver Guitar Festival - Tuason Competition · ECU Guitar Festival and Workshop · GFA International Concert Artist 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.