James Stroud Classical Guitar Competition

Cleveland, OH (Cleveland Institute of Music), USA · Classical guitar competition

James Stroud Classical Guitar Competition takes place in Cleveland, OH (Cleveland Institute of Music), USA. It is held every year, usually in June.

Location
Cleveland, OH (Cleveland Institute of Music), USA
Type
Competition & Festival
Most recent edition
7 June 2025 – 8 June 2025
Next edition
Usually each June — dates to be announced
Frequency
Annual (June)
Eligibility / age
U.S. residents, not enrolled in a university-level music degree program, and as of June 7, 2026, at least thirteen and no more than eighteen years of age.
Entry fee
$75.00, non-refundable
Venue
Cleveland Institute of Music
Who it's for
Classical guitar students aged 13 through 18 who are U.S. residents and not enrolled in a university-level music degree program. Past First Place winners are not eligible.
Prizes
  • $10,000.00 (1st Place) · $5,000.00 (2nd Place) · $2,500.00 (3rd Place) · $1,250.00 (4th Place)
Special prizes
  • TWO free, 30-minute performance positions in one of the six Cleveland International Classical Guitar Festival master classes for Semi-Finalists not advancing to the Final Round
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Repertoire requirements

Preliminary Round: two performance videos, not exceeding five minutes each. First video: complete work or movement(s) by either Johann Sebastian Bach or Domenico Scarlatti. Second video: free-choice work or movement from a larger work, representing a different time period than the first video. All works performed from memory. Single take, no editing or sound enhancement. Semi-Final Round: two free choice works from contrasting time periods, performed from memory. Also, the 2026 set piece (not required from memory). Total length 12-15 minutes. Final Round: three different works from three different time periods, performed from memory. Free choice (can be repeated from previous rounds, except set piece). Total length 15-18 minutes.

Official website

https://guitarsint.com/stroud_competition

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Visiting? A guitarist's guide to Cleveland

Cleveland, Ohio, a city known for its vibrant cultural scene and lakeside charm, hosts the James Stroud Classical Guitar Competition annually in June. Situated on the southern shore of Lake Erie, this "New American City" offers a dynamic backdrop for a guitar enthusiast's holiday, blending the competition with abundant cultural and recreational opportunities.

Getting there

Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE), located 13 miles (21 km) southwest of downtown, serves as the primary gateway, offering frequent and fast rail service via the RTA Red Line Rapid Transit directly to the city center for a fare of $2.50. Another option is Akron-Canton Airport (CAK), about 50 miles (80 km) south, which is served by most major U.S. airlines. For those arriving by car, Cleveland is well-connected by four two-digit interstate highways. The city's compact downtown is easily navigable once you arrive.

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Where to stay

As Cleveland's urban core continues its dramatic revitalization, the downtown area provides a convenient and lively base for your stay. You will find yourself close to cultural institutions, dining, and the competition venues. The city has earned a reputation as a model of effective public-private partnership for urban planning, offering a range of accommodations that reflect its status as a "global model for urban rebirth." Booking centrally allows for easy access to the city's highlights on foot or via public transport.

What you'll hear

The James Stroud Classical Guitar Competition attracts talented guitarists from across the country. Contestants are required to perform works by Bach or Scarlatti, and a set piece is announced on March 20 each year. All performances must be from memory, and the competition does not feature a concerto round. This event provides a focused experience of classical guitar in an intimate setting.

Beyond the competition, Cleveland is a rich arts and cultural mecca. It is home to the renowned Cleveland Orchestra, a major cultural institution that contributes to the city's vibrant musical landscape. Visitors can also explore the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, celebrating a different facet of musical history, or enjoy performances at Playhouse Square. This diverse cultural offering ensures that music lovers will find much to engage with throughout their visit, extending beyond the classical guitar.

The local table

Cleveland's diverse economy and history as a "melting pot" city mean its food scene is varied and dynamic. While no single iconic dish is universally grounded to the city, you can expect a wide array of culinary experiences. The city offers everything from upscale dining to casual eateries, reflecting its cultural diversity. Explore the downtown area for modern American cuisine, or venture into different neighborhoods to discover ethnic specialties that reflect Cleveland's rich immigrant heritage.

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While you're there

Cleveland offers a wealth of attractions to explore between competition rounds. The city is home to world-class institutions like the Cleveland Museum of Art and the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, both offering significant collections. Architecture enthusiasts can delve into the history of Euclid Avenue, once known as "Millionaires' Row." For a different kind of cultural experience, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is a must-visit. The city is also known as "The Forest City" due to the extensive Cleveland Metroparks system, providing abundant green spaces for recreation. Additionally, professional sports teams like the Cleveland Browns, Cavaliers, and Guardians offer year-round entertainment. For a unique perspective, visit the mouth of the Cuyahoga River on Lake Erie, where the downtown skyline meets the vast lake, a sight that often surprises visitors.

Tours, tickets and day trips in Cleveland →

Need a place to stay?

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This map centers on Cleveland 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 June: Balaton Guitar Festival · Bale-Valle Armonica Guitar Competition · Baltic Guitar Days International Festival & Competition · Baltic Guitar Festival & Competition · CIGA - Alhambra International Guitar Competition · Concurso Internacional Levino Albano da Conceição

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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