Open Call: The 5th Petrichor International Music Competition

The Petrichor International Music Competition returns for its fifth edition, inviting musicians from around the world to submit their applications. Petrichor Records is an independent record label dedicated to supporting musicians across various genres, with a particular interest in contemporary classical music. Through artist collaborations, curated projects, competitions, and educational initiatives, the label works with both emerging and established musicians worldwide. Its mission centres on artistic diversity, innovation, and creating meaningful performance and development opportunities for today’s artists.

Who can apply

The competition is open to instrumentalists, singers, ensembles, composers, and recording artists of all ages and nationalities worldwide.

There is no required piece or fixed program. Applicants are free to select the work they wish to perform or submit; this may include standard repertoire, contemporary works, original compositions, or cross-disciplinary projects. 

Submissions are reviewed individually by the Petrichor Artistic Panel and jury, without consideration of age, nationality, gender, or musical style.

Categories

The competition includes a wide range of categories, and applicants may submit to multiple divisions.

Performance (video submission)

• Solo performers (under 16, under 21, over 21)

• Small ensembles (up to 9 performers)

• Large ensembles, orchestras, choirs, and bands

Composition (audio or video submission)

• Composers (under 21 and over 21)

• Electronic and multidisciplinary works

• Film, video game, and animation music

• Arrangements of pre-existing works

• Improvisation (any genre)

Recording (audio or link submission

• Best album (performance or composition)

Prizes

Cash prizes are awarded across all categories, with a top prize of up to $2,000 in select divisions. In total, the competition offers more than $60,000 in prizes across winners and finalists.

Finalists also receive official certificates.

Submission Fees

Submission fees apply and vary by category.

Fees begin at $45 for individual performance and composition submissions, with discounted rates for multiple entries. Ensemble and album categories carry higher entry fees.

Applicants are encouraged to review the full fee structure and detailed prize breakdown on the official competition website before the deadline on 28 February 2026.

For more information or inquiries, contact contact@petrichor-records.com

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