Calling Young Flutists: 2026 Carl Nielsen International Competition
The Carl Nielsen International Competition – in 2026 for young flutists – continues to serve as a global springboard for the next generation of classical musicians.
The competition attracts an international field of talented participants, making it a significant indicator of tomorrow’s leading soloists, and with an expanded emphasis on digital dissemination, the event has reached an ever-wider audience in recent years.
At the same time, the competition strengthens Denmark’s position as a leading Nordic center for classical music and cultural innovation. Thus, next year’s Carl Nielsen International Competition is not only a cherised tradition, but also an event with both artistic and societal vision.
The competition, organized by Odense Symphony Orchestra, is for young flutists under the age of 30 from all over the world.
The time and place of the competition is June 8–16, 2026 in Odense, Denmark.
Jury Members
The Jury consists of some of the world’s most leading flutists:
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Sophie Cherrier, Chair of the Jury, Professor of Flute, Conservatoire de Paris
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András Adorján, distinguished flutist; former Professor, Hochschule für Musik und Theater München
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Petri Alanko, Head of Winds & Lecturer in Flute, Sibelius Academy
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Silvia Careddu, Principal Flute, Orchestre National de France; Professor at Zürich Hochschule der Künste
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Brit Halvorsen, Principal Flute, Royal Danish Orchestra; Teacher at The Danish Royal Academy of Music
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Guoliang Han, Professor of Flute, Central Conservatory of Music in Beijing; President, Chinese Flute Association
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Rune Most, Principal Flute, Odense Symphony Orchestra; Teacher at Danish National Academy of Music Odense
The pre-jury selecting the candidates for the competition is:
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Ragnhildur Josefsdottir, Flute, Odense Symphony Orchestra
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Ulla Miilmann, Principal Flute, Danish National Symphony Orchestra
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Rune Most, Principal Flute, Odense Symphony Orchestra; Teacher at Danish National Academy of Music Odense
Practical Information for Applicants
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The application period runs from December 8, 2025 at 12:00 noon – February 1, 2026 at 11:59 p.m.
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Young flutists under the age of 30, of all nationalities, are encouraged to apply.
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Applications must be submitted via Acceptd's application platform. A direct link will be posted on the competition website
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Submission requirements: Video submissions, selection of program/repertoire, short biography.
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Application fee: 75 USD
Cash Prizes and Recognition
The first prize includes a cash prize of € 12.000, a concert with Odense Symphony Orchestra, and a tailored promotional package built from competition footage and media.
In addition, a 2nd and 3rd prize of € 9.000 and € 6.000 will be awarded. More awards to be introduced as partnerships are finalized.
Previous winners of the Carl Nielsen International Flute Competition are now members of leading international institutions, including the Wiener Philharmoniker, the Berliner Philharmoniker, the Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra, and the Hochschule für Musik Karlsruhe, among others.
Past laureates include Alberto Navarra (2022), Joséphine Olech (France, 2019), Sébastian Jacot (Switzerland, 2014), Adriana Ferreira (Portugal, 2010), Alexandra Grot (Russia, 2006), Pirmin Grehl (Germany, 2002), and Karl-Heinz Schütz (Austria, 1998).
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Says Trine Boje Mortensen, music director of the Odense Symphony Orchestra:
“The Carl Nielsen International Competition is an essential part of the Odense Symphony Orchestra’s heart and identity. Watching young musicians unfold their talents on Danish and international stages after the competition is a profound source of pride and joy. Their energy and dedication inspire the entire orchestra, and we hope our work helps elevate global recognition of Carl Nielsen’s three solo concertos – especially the flute concerto in 2026. We look forward to placing Carl Nielsen, Odense, and the Odense Symphony Orchestra firmly on the map – and to giving the young musicians an extraordinary experience during the competition. We wish to encourage all young talents to step forward and: Perform. Inspire. Become.”
For More Information / Contact
Applications open on December 8, 2025 – read more and apply here:
Carl Nielsen International Competition /
www.odensesymfoni.dk/carlnielsenkonkurrencen
Press contact:
Competition Secretary Georgina M. Høgsholm
e-mail: gemho@odense.dk