International Telekom Beethoven Competition Bonn

(Updated 12 Apr 2025) The International Telekom Beethoven Competition Bonn has two core aims: It is primarily dedicated to promoting young pianists of exceptional talent as they embark on their international careers. And, of course, the competition makes a major contribution to honouring Ludwig van Beethoven by drawing attention to his genius and perpetuating his memory in his “hometown” of Bonn, Germany.

APPLICATION WINDOW

CLOSED

DEADLINE

14 May 2025

PRIZES

CASH PRIZES
1st prize: 50,000 €
Debut concert at the Beethovenfest Bonn 2026
International concerts as part of the Steinway Prizewinner Concerts Network
Debut concert with the Beethoven Orchester Bonn at their New Year´s Concert 2026
Concert tour with the Klassische Philharmonie Bonn in Germany with over 10 concerts, e.g. Berlin (Konzerthaus am Gendarmenmarkt), Hamburg (Laeiszhalle), Munich (Herkulessaal), Bremen (Die Glocke), Hannover (Funkhaus) in 2026/27
European Academy for Music recital, Montepulciano, Tuscany, Italy
‘Junge Stars der Klassik’ recital, Kirchheimbolanden
Debut at Beethoven Easter Festival Krakow
Concerts with Beethoven Trio Bonn

2nd prize: 25,000 €
Debut concert at the Beethovenfest Bonn 2027
Chamber music hall recital at the Beethoven-Haus Bonn
European Academy for Music recital, Montepulciano, Tuscany, Italy
‘Junge Stars der Klassik’ recital, Kirchheimbolanden

3rd prize: 10,000 €
Chamber music hall recital at the Beethoven-Haus Bonn
‘Junge Stars der Klassik’ recital, Kirchheimbolanden

SPECIAL PRIZES
Best interpretation of a piano concerto in the final
2,000 €

Special prize for chamber music, donated by the Beethoven Trio Bonn
2,000 €

Special prize for the best interpretation of a piece by a female composer in the second round
1,000 €

Note that an application fee of 50 € is required

OTHER KEY DATES

December 3 - December 14 2025: The competition will take place.

HOST COUNTRY

Germany

Note that while some organisers may accept applications from all around the world, you may still be required to travel to the host country in order to take part in the later stages of a competition for instance, or you may be required to live there for a period of time to take part in a funded programme (e.g. scholarship, incubator, accelerator).

FIND OUT MORE

Credit: International Telekom Beethoven Competition Bonn

Date Added: 12 Oct 2022