GUITARTALENT Brno

Repertoire requirements

Check website

• Competition Round · 15-20 min
  • Free choice program

Official website

https://guitarcz.com/guitartalent

Visiting? A guitarist's guide to Brno

Photo: User:Sveter (Please credit as "Petr Šmerkl, Wikipedia" in case you use this outside WMF projects.), CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Brno, the historic capital of Moravia and the Czech Republic's second-largest city, offers a vibrant backdrop for the annual GUITARTALENT Brno competition. Situated at the confluence of the Svitava and Svratava rivers, this cultural and administrative hub is home to a significant university population and a rich architectural heritage, yet it remains less crowded than Prague, offering a more intimate experience. Attending the competition here places you in the heart of a region known for its vineyards and the dramatic landscapes of the Moravian Karst, blending a high-level musical event with authentic Czech charm.

Getting there

Brno is well-connected by train, sitting on the main Prague–Vienna and Prague–Bratislava–Budapest routes. InterCity, EuroCity, and Railjet trains stop here hourly, making travel convenient. From Prague, direct trains take about two and a half hours, while Bratislava is approximately an hour and a half away. For international air travel, Prague's Václav Havel Airport (PRG) offers the widest range of connections, with frequent train services to Brno. Brno-Tuřany Airport (BRQ) also serves the city, with an information center available depending on flight schedules.

Compare trains, buses & flights to Brno on Omio →

Czech Republic runs on Type E sockets, standard across most of Europe, so you will only need a travel adapter if you are coming from the UK, Ireland, or beyond Europe.

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Where to stay

For easy access to the competition venues and city attractions, base yourself in Brno's historic center. The city boasts the third-largest historic preservation zone in the country, ensuring a wealth of beautiful architecture, from medieval to functionalist. You will find a variety of accommodations within walking distance of the main squares, the Moravian Museum, and the iconic Špilberk Castle. Brno's status as a university city and its less-touristy profile mean that options are plentiful and generally offer good value, allowing you to settle comfortably for the duration of the event.

What you'll hear

The GUITARTALENT Brno competition is an annual fixture on the international classical guitar calendar, attracting talented young players from around the globe. While the specific repertoire for each year is best confirmed on the official website, the first prize is noteworthy: a pair of exceptional instruments, Sakurai-Kohno and Jan Schneider guitars. Unlike some other major competitions, GUITARTALENT Brno does not feature a concerto round, focusing instead on solo performance, allowing for a deep dive into the solo guitar repertoire.

Beyond the competition itself, Brno is a UNESCO City of Music, reflecting its deep-seated musical traditions. While the city may not have a specific historical figure tied to the classical guitar in the same way as other European cities, the broader Czech guitar tradition is rich. Štěpán Rak, a prominent living Czech classical guitarist and composer, is a significant figure in this landscape. He founded the guitar department at the Academy of Performing Arts in Prague and is known for his innovative compositions, some of which, like the "Kutnohorská ouvertura," draw inspiration from Czech places, connecting the instrument to the country's heritage.

The local table

Moravian cuisine is hearty and often features rich sauces, roasted meats, and dumplings. Being in the South Moravian region, Brno is also surrounded by vineyards, making local wine an essential accompaniment to any meal. While specific local dishes are not highlighted in general tourist information, expect to find traditional Czech fare and a growing number of modern restaurants catering to the city's large student and professional population. Look for establishments offering regional specialties and be sure to sample the local white wines.

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

While you're there

Brno offers a wealth of attractions to explore between competition rounds. Dominating the cityscape is Špilberk Castle, a former royal castle, fortress, and prison, offering panoramic views. The Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul on Petrov Hill is another prominent landmark. Descend into the Brno Underground, a labyrinth of cellars that includes the second-largest ossuary in Europe. Architecture enthusiasts should visit the Villa Tugendhat, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a seminal example of functionalist design. For a dose of culture, the Moravian Museum is the largest in Moravia, and the Reduta Theatre is the oldest theatre building in Central Europe. Beyond the city, the Moravian Karst, with its unique cave systems, is a short trip north. The South Moravian region's vineyards also invite exploration, offering tastings and scenic drives through the countryside.

Tours, tickets and day trips in Brno →

More guitar events in Czech Republic: Kutná Hora International Biennial Guitar Competition · Mikulov Guitar Festival

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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