York Early Music International Young Artists Competition 2024
National Centre for Early Music
York, 13 July 2024

Founded in 1985, the biennial York Early Music International Young Artists Competition takes place in the National Centre for Early Music (NCEM) in the former church of St Margaret’s, Walmgate in York. As usual, it formed the conclusion of the annual York Early Music Festival. The competition is open to ensembles with at least three members aged 36 years or under with an average age of 32 or less. The repertory must be from the Middle Ages to the nineteenth century, and performers must use historically informed playing techniques, instruments and stylistic conventions.

This year, nine ensembles were selected by the Festival’s Artistic Advisors based on audio recordings but one, the Swiss-based ensemble BREZZA had to withdraw before the final. As usual, the two days before the final featured informal recitals under the guidance of conductor and keyboard player Steven Devine. These informal recitals allow finalists to adapt to the performance space and get to know the audience before the competition final. The Competition final takes place before an international jury (on this occasion Bart Demuyt, Philip Hobbs, Elizabeth Kenny, Lionel Meunier and Emily Worthington) with an audience that includes representatives of the broadcasting, recording, festival and music promotion worlds. It is a key opportunity to identify new and promising young talent.

The final was broadcast live on the NCEM YouTube channel, and can be viewed here – there is also a link to the detailed programme for the final. The final was also recorded by BBC Radio 3, and highlights will be broadcast on the Early Music Show on 3 November and will be available afterwards on BBC Sounds.

Continue reading →