International Theobald Böhm Competition for Flute and Alto Flute
ABOUT THE COMPETITION:
The International Theobald Böhm Competition is a prestigious event celebrating the legacy of Theobald Böhm (1794–1881), the inventor of the modern flute system.
Founded and organized by his great-great-grandson Ludwig Böhm, the competition uniquely features both the concert flute and the alto flute in G, showcasing repertoire dedicated to these instruments as well as works rediscovered from the 19th century.
Held in Munich, most recently at the historic Johannissaal in Schloss Nymphenburg, the competition gathers young flutists from around the world alongside a distinguished international jury. Beyond prizes, it offers participants and audiences a deep cultural experience: lectures, memorials, and concerts dedicated to Theobald Böhm’s life, music, and innovations.
The event also serves as a platform for promoting the open G-sharp flute, maintaining an international registry of professional players. Through its thoughtful integration of tradition and innovation, the competition has become a global touchstone for flutists and scholars alike.
Recent Edition (2025 – 6th Competition)
Participants: 68 flutists from 20 countries
Jury: Martin Belič (chair), Aldo Baerten, Sung-hyun Cho, Matvey Demin, Anton Kushnir, Iva Lubomirova, Nihan Atalay
Laureates:
- 1st Prize – Haeun Kim (South Korea)
- 2nd Prize – Anamarijah Lajh (Slovenia)
- 3rd Prize – Ana Tutić (Croatia)
- Special Prize for Alto Flute in G – Anamarijah Lajh
- Best Participant Under 20 – Chaeun Kim (South Korea)
Highlights: Jurors’ concert featuring rediscovered 19th-century works, Ludwig Böhm’s 144-slide lecture, and a memorial concert at Theobald Böhm’s grave.
Prizes
- Monetary awards (€5,000, €3,000, €2,000)
- Instrumental prizes (headjoints and accessories from sponsors)
- Special prizes for alto flute performance and young flutists
