SGM Next Generation Competition

SGM Next Generation Competition takes place in Montreal, Canada. It is held every year, usually in April.

Repertoire requirements

The choice of repertoire is free, but the performance must not exceed 15 minutes. Each participant must submit a single video containing all works presented. A video can contain separate performances of each of the different pieces, so it is not mandatory to have recorded the entire program continuously. However, no video modification FOR THE SAME WORK will be tolerated.

Official website

https://societedeguitaredemontreal.org/

Visiting? A guitarist's guide to Montreal

Montreal, Canada's largest francophone city and a vibrant cultural hub, hosts the SGM Next Generation Competition, an annual event that draws promising young classical guitarists. This bilingual metropolis, set on an island in the St. Lawrence River, offers a rich backdrop of history, arts, and distinctive North American charm, making it an engaging destination for any classical guitar enthusiast. Come for the music, and stay to explore a city that seamlessly blends European elegance with Canadian dynamism.

Getting there

Fly into Montreal-Trudeau International Airport (YUL), the main gateway to the city. From there, a dedicated bus service connects directly to Lionel-Groulx Metro station, providing efficient access to downtown and the wider city network. Montreal's geographical setting on the Island of Montreal, at the historically highest navigable point of the St. Lawrence River, makes for a unique arrival. Intercity trains also connect Montreal to other major Canadian cities, typically arriving at Central Station, located conveniently in the city centre.

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

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Where to stay

For a charming, historic experience, consider staying in Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal), where cobblestone streets and colonial architecture evoke the city's founding as Ville-Marie. This area places you within walking distance of numerous historical sites and waterfront promenades. Downtown, or Centre-Ville, offers a more contemporary urban environment with a wide selection of hotels, restaurants, and direct access to the extensive underground city (RESO) and Metro system. Both areas provide excellent bases for exploring the competition venues and the city's cultural offerings.

What you'll hear

The SGM Next Generation Competition showcases the talent of emerging classical guitarists, providing a platform for them to perform a diverse repertoire. Attendees can expect to hear a range of solo works, spanning from Baroque masterpieces to contemporary compositions, as these young artists compete for recognition in the classical guitar world. The competition is an excellent opportunity to witness the future stars of the instrument in a focused and intimate setting.

Beyond the competition, Montreal is a city steeped in musical tradition and contemporary vibrancy. As a major cultural and artistic centre, it hosts world-renowned events such as the Montreal International Jazz Festival, the largest of its kind, and Les Francos de Montréal, celebrating French-language music. This rich musical landscape provides a dynamic complement to the classical guitar, allowing visitors to experience a broad spectrum of the city's sound and artistic expression.

The local table

Montreal's culinary scene reflects its unique blend of French heritage and North American influences. A must-try local specialty is poutine, a hearty dish of French fries topped with cheese curds and gravy, found in various iterations across the city. The famous Montreal smoked meat sandwich, piled high on rye bread, is another iconic staple, best experienced at one of the city's long-standing delis. Be sure to sample Montreal bagels, distinct from their New York counterparts, often hand-rolled, boiled in honey water, and baked in wood-fired ovens. For a more traditional Quebecois dish, consider tourtière, a savoury meat pie, particularly comforting during colder seasons.

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While you're there

Between competition rounds, Montreal offers a wealth of attractions to explore. Wander through the historic cobblestone streets of Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal), where you can visit Notre-Dame Basilica and explore the city's colonial past. Ascend Mount Royal, the triple-peaked mountain at the city's heart, for panoramic views and a chance to enjoy urban green spaces. The Olympic Park, a legacy of the 1976 Summer Olympics, features its striking stadium and various attractions. As a UNESCO City of Design, Montreal also boasts numerous galleries, museums, and vibrant design districts. During the colder months, the extensive underground city (RESO) offers a convenient way to navigate downtown, connecting shopping centres, Metro stations, and cultural venues.

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 · Quebec Music Competition - Guitar · Vancouver Classical Guitar Festival

Also in April: Anna-Amalia Competition for Young Guitarists · Concorso Riviera Etrusca · Long Island Guitar Festival · Patras International Guitar Festival Competition · Philadelphia Classical Guitar Competition · Sarajevo International 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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