Nürtingen Guitar Festival and Competition

Nürtingen Guitar Festival and Competition takes place in Nürtingen, Germany. It is held every year, usually in July.

Repertoire requirements

1st round: 10-12 minutes, free program design. 2nd round: 18-20 minutes, free program design. Final: 25-30 minutes, free program design. Pieces may not be repeated in a subsequent round. If the maximum playing time of a round is exceeded or undercut, point deductions must be expected.

Official website

http://www.gitarre-nuertingen.de/

Visiting? A guitarist's guide to Nürtingen

Nestled on the banks of the Neckar river in Germany's Baden-Württemberg region, Nürtingen hosts its annual Guitar Festival and Competition, drawing classical guitarists and enthusiasts to this historic town. With roots stretching back to the 11th century and a past touched by figures like Friedrich Hölderlin, Nürtingen offers a blend of cultural depth and Swabian charm, providing a distinctive setting for a week of guitar music.

Getting there

The most convenient gateway to Nürtingen is Stuttgart Airport (STR), located about 25 kilometres away. From the airport, a short transfer to Stuttgart Hauptbahnhof connects you to regular regional trains bound for Nürtingen. The journey from Stuttgart city centre takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes, offering a straightforward arrival into the Neckar valley. Nürtingen's railway station is centrally located, making it easy to reach accommodation and festival venues on foot or via local transport.

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Germany runs on Type F 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

Nürtingen is a town with a comfortable scale, making it easy to navigate and find a suitable base for your stay. Consider lodging near the old centre, where you will be within walking distance of the festival's activities, local shops, and the scenic Neckar river. The town's historical fabric, evident in its half-timbered houses and narrow streets, provides a pleasant atmosphere. Nürtingen is well-equipped for visitors, with options ranging from traditional guesthouses to modern hotels, all offering a convenient setting for attending concerts and exploring the area.

What you'll hear

The Nürtingen Guitar Festival and Competition is an annual event that showcases emerging talent in the classical guitar world. Attendees can expect a diverse programme of concerts, masterclasses, and the competition rounds themselves, which feature a wide range of solo repertoire performed by ambitious young guitarists. The festival provides a concentrated opportunity to immerse oneself in high-level classical guitar playing, with the competition culminating in a final round that highlights the instrument's expressive capabilities.

While Nürtingen's direct musical heritage for the guitar is not documented, the town carries a significant intellectual legacy. It was here, at the Latin school, that the eminent German Romantic poets and philosophers Friedrich Hölderlin and Friedrich Wilhelm Joseph von Schelling were pupils in the late 18th century. Their presence imbues Nürtingen with a sense of its deep engagement with German cultural history, offering a reflective backdrop for the contemporary artistry presented at the guitar festival.

The local table

In Nürtingen, you are in the heart of Swabia, a region celebrated for its hearty and distinctive cuisine. Seek out local specialities such as Maultaschen, savoury dumplings often served in broth or pan-fried with onions, and Spätzle, a versatile egg noodle often accompanying meat dishes like Zwiebelrostbraten, a succulent roasted beef with crispy onions. The Neckar region is also known for its local wines, particularly white varieties that pair well with the regional fare. Enjoy a traditional meal at a local Gasthaus to experience authentic Swabian hospitality and flavours.

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While you're there

Between concerts, Nürtingen and its surroundings offer a variety of attractions. Stroll along the Neckar river, explore the historic core of the town, and visit sites connected to its past, such as the former Latin school where Hölderlin and Schelling studied. For a picturesque day trip, consider taking the 'Tälesbahn', a scenic local train line, into the Neuffen valley, which offers views of the Swabian Jura. The regional capital, Stuttgart, is a short train ride away and provides a wealth of cultural institutions, including the Mercedes-Benz and Porsche museums, the State Gallery, and extensive shopping along Königstraße. Alternatively, the nearby historic town of Esslingen am Neckar, with its remarkably preserved medieval Altstadt, half-timbered houses, and castle, makes for an excellent excursion.

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

Also in July: Canadian Music Competition - Guitar · Certamen Miquel Llobet · Classical Guitar Retreat Scotland · Concorso Città di Fiuggi · Granada Guitar Festival · International Guitar Festival José Tomás Villa de Petrer

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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