Indiana Classical Guitar Competition
Bloomington, IN, USA · Classical guitar competition
Indiana Classical Guitar Competition takes place in Bloomington, IN, USA. It is held every year, usually in March.
- Location
- Bloomington, IN, USA
- Type
- Competition
- Most recent edition
- 7 March 2025 – 9 March 2025
- Next edition
- Usually each March — dates to be announced
- Frequency
- annual
- Eligibility / age
- Open Division: Ages 18-35; Pre-College Division: Ages 18 and under (not enrolled in a university-level music degree program at the time of the competition)
Repertoire requirements
All repertoire is free choice. Competitors should aim to present a variety of styles and levels of difficulty, as these factors will be considered in scoring.
Official website
https://blogs.iu.edu/guitarfestival/
Enter the pieces you play and Guitar Events instantly shows how your repertoire matches this competition's rounds, and which other events you qualify for.
Check your repertoire matchVisiting? A guitarist's guide to Bloomington
Nestled in the rolling hills of southern Indiana, Bloomington hosts the annual Indiana Classical Guitar Competition, an event that draws talented players to this vibrant university town. Home to Indiana University, the city offers a rich cultural atmosphere, making it an engaging destination for classical guitar enthusiasts. Attend the competition for a showcase of emerging talent, and discover a welcoming place with a lively arts scene and access to natural beauty.
Getting there
The most convenient way to reach Bloomington is via Indianapolis International Airport (IND), located about an hour's drive north of the city. From IND, visitors can rent a car for the scenic drive south or utilize one of the several shuttle services that provide direct transportation to Bloomington. While no direct passenger rail service reaches Bloomington, the drive offers pleasant views of the Indiana countryside.
Compare trains, buses & flights to Bloomington on Omio →
USA uses Type A/B sockets, so pack a travel adapter for your tuner and chargers.
These open third-party sites in a new tab. We may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
Where to stay
As a prominent university town, Bloomington offers a range of accommodation options. Consider staying near the Indiana University campus for easy access to cultural events and a lively student atmosphere, or choose a hotel closer to the downtown square for proximity to shops and restaurants. The city is walkable, especially around the campus and downtown areas, allowing for easy exploration on foot once you are settled.
What you'll hear
The Indiana Classical Guitar Competition features both an Open Division and a Pre-College Division, allowing for a broad display of skill and artistry. Competitors in the Open Division are encouraged to present a diverse program, showcasing a variety of styles and levels of difficulty, which factors into their scoring. Pre-College performers prepare a free-choice program with a maximum duration of 15 minutes, also judged on variety and difficulty.
Bloomington, anchored by Indiana University's Jacobs School of Music, is a hub for classical music education and performance. While the city may not have a specific historical tie to a classical guitar composer, the university's presence ensures a high level of musical activity throughout the year, from student recitals to faculty concerts. The competition itself is a testament to this thriving musical environment, offering a chance to hear promising guitarists in a dedicated performance setting.
The local table
Dining in Bloomington reflects its diverse university population, offering a wide array of international cuisines and local favorites. For a taste of Indiana, seek out the iconic breaded pork tenderloin sandwich, a regional specialty often served larger than the bun it accompanies. Another Hoosier classic is sugar cream pie, the state pie, a simple yet rich dessert. The downtown area and neighborhoods surrounding the university provide numerous options, from casual eateries to fine dining.
Fancy a guided taste? Food and wine tours in Bloomington →
While you're there
Beyond the competition, Bloomington provides ample opportunities for exploration. The Indiana University Bloomington campus itself is a destination, with its distinctive limestone architecture, the Eskenazi Museum of Art, and the historic Lilly Library. Outdoors, Brown County State Park, often called the "Little Smokies," is a short drive east and offers extensive hiking trails and stunning fall foliage. Lake Monroe, Indiana's largest lake, provides opportunities for boating and other water activities. For those interested in local spirits, Oliver Winery, one of the largest and oldest wineries in Indiana, is just north of the city and offers tastings and tours.
Tours, tickets and day trips in Bloomington →
Compare hotels and apartments near Bloomington, IN for your dates.
Loads a third-party booking map (Stay22) only when you choose. We may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
This map centers on Bloomington 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 · Austin Classical Guitar Composition Competition · Boston GuitarFest Academy Competition · Brevard Classical Guitar Institute · Denver Guitar Festival - Tuason Competition · ECU Guitar Festival and Workshop
Also in March: Concorso Emilio Pujol · Concorso Fernando Sor · Concours International de Guitare d'Antony · Concours International Roland Dyens · Guitar Art Festival Belgrade
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.