Philosophy
At CMA OPERA LLC, we believe that music has the power to transcend boundaries and unite people through shared artistic expression. The 4th Classic Music Awards competition is designed to discover, nurture, and showcase exceptional talent from around the world. Our aim is to provide a platform for classical musicians who demonstrate both technical excellence and profound musicality, fostering an environment of growth, collaboration, and artistry.
The competition’s structure, with its three rounds, reflects our commitment to accessibility and international inclusion. The first two rounds being held online ensures that musicians from all corners of the globe can participate without barriers. This allows a diverse range of voices to be heard and judged based on merit and artistry alone, transcending geographical limitations.
The final round, held in prestigious venues such as Carnegie Hall or Lincoln Center, serves as both a celebration of achievement and a testament to the universal appeal of classical music. These iconic spaces not only symbolize artistic excellence but also inspire participants to reach their highest potential. By offering these young artists the chance to perform on some of the world’s greatest stages, we aim to contribute to their personal and professional growth, opening doors to future opportunities.
Through this competition, we hope to create a community of artists who are committed to the continued evolution and preservation of classical music, inspiring future generations while honoring the traditions that have shaped this rich art form.
Regulation
Categories
Piano
Baroque Period 1600-1750/Classic Period 1750-1820/Romantic Period 1820-1900/Contemporary Period 1900-Present
Chinese Music Selection
Strings
Violin/Viola/Cello/Double Bass
Baroque Period 1600-1750/Classic Period 1750-1820/Romantic Period 1820-1900/Contemporary Period 1900-Present
Chinese Music Selection
Voice
Soprano/Mezzo/Alto/Tenor/Countertenor/Baritone/Bass/Chorus
Aria/Art Songs/Music Theater/Chinese Songs
Age Group
Prelude: age up to 7 (included)
Junior: age 8-15
Young Artist: age 16-22
Virtuoso: age 23-29
Professional: age 30-54
Golden Voice：age 55 and older (no limit)
Repertoire for the First Round
After choosing in the age group, participants are free to choose works from any form or period for the First Round.
There are no restrictions on the style or era of the selected piece(s).
You may record one or two pieces, with a total duration not exceeding 10 minutes.
Repertoire for the Final Round
Upon reaching the Final Round, in order to maximize fairness and impartiality,
after choosing in the age group, participants need to select instrument type, music style for voice and music periods for piano and strings from the categories.
You may record one or two pieces, with a total duration not exceeding 10 minutes.
Video Requirements
All performances must be memorized.
Record in a quiet and clean environment, with the option to include full-body or half body shots. No post-production manipulation of sound or visuals is allowed.
Each performance should be recorded using a single device, positioned at a fixed location, capturing the entire process from the beginning to the end of the music without interruption. Acceptable recording devices include phones and video cameras. Please use landscape mode for recording, and refrain from using any beautification or adjustment features.
Performances can use live or pre-recorded instrumental accompaniment, but the accompaniment must not include the sound of the participating instrument.
Violation of the above rules in submitted recordings will result in disqualification from the competition.
FAQ
Q: How do I submit my video?
A: You have two options for submitting your video. Firstly, you can upload it to popular video platforms such as YouTube, Vimeo, or Youku, ensuring that the video is accessible to viewers. After uploading, provide the video link in the online application form. Alternatively, you can submit the application form without the video link and send the link separately to us via email before the competition deadline. Choose the method that suits you best, but ensure the video link reaches us on time.
Q: Do I need to show my hands in the video?
A: Certainly. For instrumentalists, it is essential that both the hands and face of the performer are visible in the video. Likewise, for singers, the face of the performer must be clearly visible. However, this particular requirement does not apply to composers.
Q: Can I use an audio background for accompaniment if I can't find an accompanist?
A: Absolutely, you are permitted to use audio background music for accompaniment.
The competition reserves the right for the final interpretation of all rules and regulations.
