Vojvodina Guitar Fest "Jovan Jovičić"

Vojvodina Guitar Fest "Jovan Jovičić" is a classical-guitar competition in Novi Sad, Serbia. It is held every year, usually in April.

Repertoire requirements

Category 1: two or more compositions of different styles and characters, up to 5 minutes. Category 2: two or more compositions of different styles and characters, up to 8 minutes. Category 3: two or more compositions of different styles and characters, up to 10 minutes. Category 4: two or more compositions of different styles and characters, up to 12 minutes. Category 5: two or more compositions of different styles and characters, up to 15 minutes. No age limit category: two or more compositions of different styles and characters, up to 20 minutes. Amateur category: two or more compositions of different styles and characters, up to 7 minutes. Additionally, candidates performing a Jovan Jovičić composition for the special award will perform it as an addition to their regular program, and it does not count towards the time limit.

• Preliminary Round · 15 min
  • Free choice program
• Semi-Final · 20 min
  • Free choice program
• Final · 25 min
  • Free choice recital

Official website

https://agv.org.rs/

Visiting? A guitarist's guide to Novi Sad

Novi Sad, the capital of Serbia's northern Vojvodina province, sits gracefully on the Danube, a city whose architecture and culture bear the strong imprint of the Austro-Hungarian Empire rather than the Ottoman. Known as the "Serbian Athens" for its historical importance as a cultural and intellectual centre, it is now a vibrant university town, flat and green, with a relaxed pace and an open-minded atmosphere. It is here that the annual Vojvodina Guitar Fest "Jovan Jovičić" brings classical guitarists and enthusiasts to its welcoming streets.

Getting there

The most convenient airport for Novi Sad is Belgrade (BEG), just 70 km southeast, with the drive taking less than an hour. Several taxi companies offer direct transfers from Belgrade Airport to Novi Sad, which can be inexpensive by Western standards. While other airports like Budapest (250 km north) and Timisoara (130 km northeast) offer low-cost flights, they involve land border crossings that can add significant time to the journey. Novi Sad is also on the main railway line connecting Budapest, Subotica, and Belgrade, providing an option for those travelling by train.

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Serbia 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

Novi Sad is a flat, walkable city, making it easy to navigate on foot or by bicycle. The city centre, with its elegant Austro-Hungarian buildings and lively Zmaj Jovina street filled with cafes, offers an excellent base. From here, you are close to the Danube promenade and the city's many "hipstery" spots, reflecting its large student population. Choosing accommodation within the central area means easy access to festival venues and the relaxed local lifestyle.

What you'll hear

The Vojvodina Guitar Fest "Jovan Jovičić" is an annual event that features several categories for guitarists of varying ages and skill levels, culminating in a "No age limit" category. Competitors are required to perform two or more compositions of different styles and characters within a specified time limit for their respective categories. A highlight for the most accomplished players is the first prize in the "No age limit" category: a valuable "Ganadora" guitar. Additionally, candidates born in 2010 or older have the option to perform a selected composition by Jovan Jovičić, the festival's namesake, as an extra piece that does not count towards their regular program's time limit.

Novi Sad itself, often celebrated as the "Serbian Athens," has long been a crucible of culture and learning, a legacy that imbues the city with a profound appreciation for the arts. Its unique historical position, at the crossroads of Central European and Balkan influences, has fostered a distinct cultural identity. While there isn't a specific classical guitar composer historically tied to Novi Sad in the same way as some other European cities, the festival thrives within this rich cultural tapestry, drawing on the city's deep respect for music and artistic expression. The relaxed, open-minded atmosphere of this university town provides a welcoming environment for both performers and audience members to engage with the classical guitar.

The local table

Serbian cuisine is a major draw for visitors to Novi Sad, and the city offers ample opportunities to experience its rich flavours at very reasonable prices. Seek out traditional dishes such as sarma, hearty rolls of cabbage leaves stuffed with minced meat and rice, or gibanica, a savoury pastry made with layers of filo dough and cheese. Another staple is kajmak, a creamy, clotted dairy product often served as a side dish or spread. For a true local experience, explore the city's many restaurants that serve grilled meats, a cornerstone of Balkan cooking, often accompanied by ajvar, a delicious roasted red pepper and eggplant relish.

Fancy a guided taste? Food and wine tours in Novi Sad →

While you're there

Between festival events, Novi Sad offers a wealth of sights and activities. A visit to the imposing Petrovaradin Fortress, often called the "Gibraltar of the Danube," is essential; perched on a rock overlooking the river, it provides stunning panoramic views of the city and is famous as the site of the annual Exit Festival. For nature lovers, Fruška Gora National Park, less than 15 km away, offers beautiful hiking trails and numerous ancient Serbian Orthodox monasteries nestled among its hills. Closer to the city, the Štrand is a popular public beach on the Danube, perfect for a swim or relaxation on a warm day, while the lively Zmaj Jovina street in the city centre is ideal for people-watching from a cafe terrace. For a change of pace, the Serbian capital Belgrade is less than an hour away and makes for an easy day trip, offering a bustling metropolitan contrast to Novi Sad's more serene charm.

Tours, tickets and day trips in Novi Sad →

More guitar events in Serbia: Guitar Art Festival Belgrade

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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