Applications for the 2026 Young Classical Artists Trust (YCAT) Auditions are now open!

The deadline for applications is Thursday, 26th February 2026, at 11:59pm.

Apply now

About YCAT

The Young Classical Artists Trust (YCAT) exists to discover, nurture and support the most exceptional young classical musicians, easing their progression from talented students to accomplished performers, and helping them build the foundations necessary for successful, sustainable and impactful international careers. 

YCAT’s experience and extensive network of colleagues and partners means selected artists receive sustained guidance and unique opportunities at a pivotal point in their development. Each artist on our roster receives bespoke support, helping them carve out their own distinctive artistic path.

Selected artists benefit from 3–5 years of support, including:

• Management - Long-term developmental and holistic management

• Performance - Strategic diary of engagements secured worldwide (selected joint artists, in collaboration with Concert Artists Guild)

• Exposure - Regular marketing to 5,000+ promoters and concert halls worldwide

• Branding - High-quality publicity materials and professional photo shoots 

• Digital - Comprehensive social media and website consultation and support

• Media - Live recordings of recitals at Wigmore Hall 

In the video below, Sini Simonen (former YCAT artist, Castalian Quartet) and Olivier Stankiewicz (former YCAT artist, oboe) share their stories about the life changing experience of being part of the YCAT family and receiving this support.

Audition Details

YCAT's comprehensive annual auditions process consists of three rounds: an initial online application, live semi-finals in both Kronberg and London, followed by a final round of public performances at London's Wigmore Hall. Each stage is assessed by panels of industry experts.

Initial online applications are submitted via Muvac, a free online platform connecting musicians with cultural institutions worldwide.

Go to Muvac

Audition Categories:

• Strings

• Woodwind, Brass & Percussion

• Voice

• Solo Piano / Keyboard (includes Accordion)

• Ensemble (2-6 members)

Key Audition Dates:

• Thursday, 26 February 2026: Deadline for Applications
• Thursday, 26 March 2026: Live Semi-Final Auditions | Casals Forum, Kronberg, Germany
• Monday, 30 March 2026: Live Semi-Final Auditions | Royal Academy of Music, London, UK

• Thursday, 7 May 2026: Public Final Auditions | Wigmore Hall, London, UK

Why Apply?

Becoming a YCAT artist means joining a community of exceptional musicians dedicated to artistic excellence, creative growth, and meaningful careers. Many alumni have gone on to international success, inspiring audiences and shaping the classical music landscape. With personalised management and opportunities across performance, media, marketing and professional development, YCAT supports each artist at this crucial stage of their journey.

Apply today

For full details, visit Audition Information or contact [email protected].
We can’t wait to meet the next generation of extraordinary classical artists.

Apply now

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