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BBC Young Musician replaces instrument categories with regions

Competitions
The move is among several changes ‘designed to make the competition easier to enter, more sustainable and a more rewarding experience for our musicians and audiences’.
2022 grand finalists Ethan Loch (piano), Jaren Ziegler (viola), Sofía Patterson-Gutiérrez (flute), Jordan Ashman (percussion) and Sasha Canter (trumpet) at Bridgewater Hall, Manchester
2022 grand finalists Ethan Loch (piano), Jaren Ziegler (viola), Sofía Patterson-Gutiérrez (flute), Jordan Ashman (percussion) and Sasha Canter (trumpet) at Bridgewater Hall, Manchester - Dan Prince / BBC

BBC Young Musician will categorise entrants by geographical area rather than instrumental family as part of a new format for 2024.

The biennial competition will begin with a new round of digital auditions, requiring applicants to send in a video of a performance of up to 10 minutes’ duration plus a shorter clip introducing themselves.

According to the 2024 entry brochure: ‘The new structure means less travel for everyone, increasing sustainability, and requires less time out of school for those involved.’

The two best musicians from eight regions will then progress to the live auditions, joined by 34 others selected irrespective of region.

‘By switching from instrumental categories to geographical areas, we’re looking to celebrate talent from all over the UK and increase participation from regions that are typically underrepresented at BBC Young Musician’, the entry brochure reads.

‘We will also have more flexibility to programme varied and exciting concerts for our live and TV audiences. We aim to reflect the universality of music, bringing musicians together, creating lasting friendships and learning opportunities for everyone.’

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