Varna International Flute Competition
About the Competition
Founded in 2015, the Varna International Flute Competition has become one of Eastern Europe’s leading international flute competitions, welcoming young flutists from around the world to the Bulgarian Black Sea city of Varna.
Organized annually by the European Music Academy Foundation (EMA) and included in the Official Cultural Calendar of the Municipality of Varna, the competition is dedicated to discovering and supporting talented flutists at every stage of their artistic development. With age categories ranging from young beginners to emerging professionals, it provides an inclusive international platform for performance, education, and artistic exchange.
The competition is distinguished by its hybrid format, allowing participants to compete both in person and online, making it accessible to musicians from across the globe. In addition to monetary prizes, participants compete for scholarships, special awards, concert opportunities, and recognition from an international jury composed of distinguished performers and educators.
The event concludes with a Gala Concert featuring selected laureates, broadcast by Bulgarian National Television, providing exceptional visibility for prize winners. Through its international participation, educational mission, and commitment to nurturing the next generation of flutists, the Varna International Flute Competition has become an important event on the international flute calendar.
2025 Competition Highlights
- Celebrated its 10th anniversary edition.
- Held November 3–5, 2025, in Varna, Bulgaria.
- Organized by the European Music Academy Foundation (EMA).
- Included in the Official Cultural Calendar of the Municipality of Varna.
- Open to participants 7–31 years of age across multiple competitive divisions.
- Offered both live and online participation.
- Awarded cash prizes of up to €1,500, scholarships, and special prizes.
- Concluded with a Gala Concert broadcast by Bulgarian National Television.