Quebec Music Competition - Guitar

Quebec Music Competition - Guitar takes place in Montreal, Canada. It is held every year, usually in January.

Repertoire requirements

Free choice of repertoire. All genres and instruments (including classical, jazz, pop and traditional musical instruments) and Voice (singing)

• Competition Round · 10-15 min
  • Free choice program

Official website

https://quebecmusiccompetition.com/

Visiting? A guitarist's guide to Montreal

Montreal, the vibrant cultural and economic heart of Quebec, hosts the annual Quebec Music Competition - Guitar, an event that celebrates the instrument across all genres. As Canada's second-largest city and the largest francophone city in the Americas, Montreal offers a unique blend of European charm and North American dynamism. Attendees will find themselves immersed in a proudly bilingual city, where a rich history and a thriving contemporary arts scene provide a stimulating backdrop for a competition known for its open repertoire and diverse musical offerings.

Getting there

Situated on an island in the St. Lawrence River, Montreal is a major international gateway, well-connected by air. Most international and domestic flights arrive at Montreal's international airport, which is served by public transport to the city centre. The city is also a significant rail hub within Canada, offering connections to other major Canadian cities. For those driving, Montreal is approximately 196 kilometres east of Ottawa, the national capital, and 258 kilometres southwest of Quebec City, the provincial capital.

Compare trains, buses & flights to Montreal on Omio →

Canada uses Type A/B sockets, so pack a travel adapter for your tuner and chargers.

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Where to stay

For visitors attending the competition, basing yourself in or near Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal) provides a captivating experience, surrounded by colonial-era architecture and historical charm. This walkable district offers numerous hotels and easy access to many of the city's attractions. Other excellent options can be found in the city's central boroughs, including areas like the Plateau Mont-Royal, known for its distinct character and vibrant street life, ensuring a wide choice of accommodation to suit various preferences.

What you'll hear

The Quebec Music Competition - Guitar stands out for its inclusive approach to repertoire and instrumentation. Unlike many classical guitar competitions, this annual event embraces a free choice of repertoire across all genres, welcoming classical, jazz, pop, and traditional musical instruments, as well as voice. This broad scope ensures a diverse and engaging musical experience for attendees, with winning participants receiving cash prizes and significant recognition.

Beyond the competition, Montreal is a city steeped in musical culture. It is famously home to the Montreal International Jazz Festival, recognized as the largest jazz festival in the world, and Les Francos de Montréal, the largest French-language music festival. This rich tapestry of musical events, alongside a thriving arts scene, ensures that music is woven into the fabric of Montreal life, offering a wide array of performances and styles throughout the year.

The local table

Montreal is renowned for its diverse and sophisticated culinary scene, a reflection of its French heritage and multicultural population. Visitors will find an abundance of high-quality dining options, from classic French-inspired bistros to innovative contemporary cuisine. The city's food landscape is celebrated for its creativity and quality, offering everything from casual eateries to fine dining establishments, making it a destination for food enthusiasts.

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

While you're there

Between musical events, Montreal offers a wealth of activities. Explore the cobblestone streets and historical buildings of Old Montreal, where the city's colonial past comes to life. Ascend Mount Royal, the triple-peaked mountain that gives the city its name, for panoramic views and opportunities for outdoor enjoyment within the urban landscape. Discover the legacy of Expo 67, which transformed the city with its metro system and attractive urban parks, or marvel at the distinctive architecture of the 1976 Olympic Stadium. As a UNESCO City of Design, Montreal’s blend of historic and modern architecture is always engaging. For those wishing to venture further, both Ottawa, the national capital, and Quebec City, with its fortified old town, are a few hours away by road or rail, offering compelling day or overnight trips to experience more of Canada's rich history and culture.

Tours, tickets and day trips in Montreal →

More guitar events in Canada: Canadian Music Competition - Guitar · Classical GuitarFest West · Edmonton Guitar Seminar · Guitar Alla Grande Festival · SGM Next Generation Competition · Vancouver Classical Guitar Festival

Also in January: Miami International GuitART Festival & Competition · Queens University of Charlotte Guitar Symposium

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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