General Information
All participants of the Kairos International Music Competition are honored with beautifully designed digital diplomas, ensuring that every performer is recognized for their dedication and artistry. Diplomas are awarded at four levels – First Prize, Second Prize, Third Prize, and Special Prizes – reflecting outstanding achievement across different age groups and categories.
All Grand Prize winners of First Prize will be granted one free masterclass session with a distinguished artist. Details regarding scheduling and participating professors will be communicated individually after the competition results are announced.
Entry to the competition requires a one-time application fee of 120 USD. Application fees are non-refundable.
In addition, the competition highly values the contribution of music educators. Teachers may request Teacher Appreciation Diplomas as recognition of their guidance, commitment, and support in nurturing young musicians.
Prizewinners are also featured internationally through the competition’s official website and social media platforms, offering visibility and recognition that extend beyond the event itself. Selected laureates may be highlighted in promotional features, giving them further opportunities for exposure and encouragement.
Through this awards structure, Kairos celebrates not only the artistic excellence of its participants but also the vital role of teachers, building a culture of encouragement and recognition within the global music community.
Competition Format
The competition is held in a single round based on video submission.
Participants will be evaluated by an international jury, and awards will be announced according to age groups and categories.
Categories
Piano and other keyboard instruments
Violin
Violia
Cello
Harp
Age Groups
Group A: Under 8 years old
Group B: 8–12 years old
Group C: 12–16 years old
Group D: 16 years old and above
Age is calculated as of the application deadline.
Repertoire Requirement
Repertoire is free choice: works of any style, period, or form are accepted.
Duration (by age group):
Group A (Under 8): up to 5 minutes
Group B (8–12): up to 9 minutes
Group C (12–16): up to 15 minutes
Group D (16+): up to 30 minutes
The jury reserves the right to evaluate only the first 15 minutes of any submission if deemed sufficient.
Content: one complete piece, a single movement, or a selection of movements from a larger cyclical work (e.g., sonata, suite, concerto) may be presented. Short works may also be submitted, especially for younger participants.
Performance setting: works may be performed solo, with accompaniment, or in a mixture of accompanied and unaccompanied repertoire.
Video Requirements
Entrants must submit their performance video(s) exactly in the manner described on the official Application Form.
The video must clearly show the performer’s face and hands throughout the performance.
Recordings must be unedited single takes. However, a short spoken introduction with the performer’s name, the title of the piece, and the composer is encouraged.
Video descriptions must include: Participant’s name, composer, and title of the piece.
Submissions must be hosted on YouTube (set to Public or Unlisted) or other accepted platforms (Vimeo, BiliBili, Google Drive). Do not set videos to Private; private videos cannot be reviewed by the jury.
Participants are responsible for ensuring that their recording is of sufficient quality to fairly represent their performance.