Miami International GuitART Festival & Competition
Miami, FL, USA · Classical guitar competition
Miami International GuitART Festival & Competition takes place in Miami, FL, USA. It is held every year, usually in January.
- Location
- Miami, FL, USA
- Type
- Competition
- Event dates
- 22 January 2027 – 31 January 2027
- Application deadline
- 1 January 2026
- Frequency
- annual
- Eligibility / age
- composers of all ages and nationalities
- Entry fee
- $25 for each work
- Prizes
- 1st$600 cash prize
Repertoire requirements
Compositions must be written for solo six-stringed classical guitar; alternate tunings are acceptable. Fixed media and/or live electronics may be included. Duration must be no more than 10 minutes (8 minutes or less preferred).
Official website
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 Miami
As a vibrant international hub and the "Gateway to Latin America," Miami offers an exciting backdrop for the annual Miami International GuitART Festival & Competition. This event draws performers and enthusiasts to Florida's most populous metropolitan area, blending guitar artistry with the city's unique cultural tapestry. Whether you come for the competition or the dynamic urban experience, Miami provides a memorable setting.
Getting there
Miami International Airport (MIA IATA), located just west of the city, serves as a major international gateway, especially for traffic between North America, the Caribbean, and Latin America. It is one of the world's largest airports, so allow ample time for departures, particularly if flying internationally. Public transportation options are available from the airport. Once in Miami, the city is vast, making ride-shares or rental cars common for navigating its various districts, though some areas are walkable.
Compare trains, buses & flights to Miami 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
Miami's sprawling nature means choosing a base depends on your priorities. For proximity to the festival, consider staying near the University of Miami's academic medical center and teaching hospital or downtown Miami, a major urban center with a large concentration of international banks and companies. If you prefer a beach resort atmosphere, Miami Beach, a separate municipality on a barrier island east of Miami, offers numerous options, though it requires a short trip across Biscayne Bay. Booking in advance is advisable, especially during peak season or event dates.
What you'll hear
The Miami International GuitART Festival & Competition brings together a diverse array of international guitarists, offering a week of recitals, masterclasses, and competitive performances. As an annual event, it consistently showcases rising stars and established artists in the classical guitar world, making it a significant fixture on the instrument's global calendar. The competition rounds and various concerts provide opportunities to hear a wide range of repertoire and interpretive styles.
Beyond the festival, Miami's soundscape is rich with the influences of its majority-minority population. With nearly 65% of its residents from Latin America or of Latin American ancestry, Spanish is frequently heard in day-to-day discourse, particularly in neighborhoods like Little Havana and Hialeah. Haitian Creole is also common in northern Miami, reflecting the city's diverse immigrant communities. This linguistic and cultural mosaic contributes to a vibrant atmosphere that extends to its music and artistic expressions.
The local table
Miami's culinary scene is deeply shaped by its rich Latin American heritage. The city is renowned for its Cuban cuisine, with Little Havana being a prime destination for authentic dishes. Look for staples like ropa vieja (shredded beef), lechón (roast pork), and Cuban sandwiches, often accompanied by strong Cuban coffee. Given the city's coastal location, fresh seafood also features prominently, prepared with various Latin American and Caribbean influences. Exploring the city's diverse neighborhoods will reveal a range of flavors, from Haitian to other Caribbean and South American specialities.
Fancy a guided taste? Food and wine tours in Miami →
While you're there
Between festival events, Miami offers a wealth of activities. Explore the vibrant cultural heart of Little Havana, where you can immerse yourself in Cuban traditions, art, and music. Downtown Miami boasts one of the largest concentrations of international banks in the U.S. and an impressive skyline with over 300 high-rises. For a different experience, visit Miami Beach, a separate municipality known for its beach resorts and Art Deco Historic District. PortMiami, the busiest cruise port in the world, is also a significant landmark. The city's warm climate, even in February, makes outdoor activities enjoyable.
Tours, tickets and day trips in Miami →
The organizer offers partner-hotel discounts — see the official site.
Compare hotels and apartments near Miami, FL 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 Miami 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 January: Quebec Music Competition - Guitar
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.