Who is eligible to apply?

The competition is open to cellists of all nationalities born on or after September 26, 1997. The complete terms and conditions can be found in the competition rules.

What happens if I discover an error after submitting my application?

If you notice an error in your application after submitting it, please contact the organizing team immediately at feuermann@udk-berlin.de. The competition will do its best to assist you, but cannot guarantee that changes can be made after submission or after the respective repertoire deadlines have passed.

Can I submit my application before my recording is finished?

No. Applications can only be submitted once all required documents have been uploaded, including recordings, repertoire information, and supporting documents.

Can I withdraw my application after submitting it?

Yes. Please contact the organizing team at feuermann@udk-berlin.de.

How do I submit my recordings?

Upload a video recording of the required repertoire for the preliminary selection to a video platform of your choice (YouTube or Vimeo). Please include the repertoire and duration of each piece in the video description.
Editing, arrangements, or other technical manipulations of pitch or duration within complete movements are not permitted.

What happens if my recording exceeds the maximum duration?

Recordings submitted for the preliminary round must be between 20 and 25 minutes long.
The jury will not evaluate recordings that exceed this maximum length. Applicants are therefore strongly urged to ensure that the total length of their submitted recording falls within the permitted time limit.
The competition reserves the right to reject applications that do not comply with the published recording guidelines.

Can I change my repertoire after submitting my application?

Yes. The repertoire may be changed within the deadlines specified in the artistic guidelines. After the published deadlines have passed, changes are only possible with the written approval of the competition.

May I play from the score?

The entire repertoire should normally be performed from memory. Participants may, at their discretion, perform 20th- and 21st-century works from the score.
 

Can I repeat pieces in different rounds?

A piece that has already been performed in the preliminary round or the first international round may be performed again in the second round and the semifinals. Further details can be found in the artistic guidelines.

Will I receive feedback if I am not selected?

Due to the large number of applications we receive, we are unable to provide individual feedback after the initial screening.

What costs am I responsible for?

Participants are responsible for their own travel, lodging, and meal expenses related to the international first round.

Is financial assistance available?

The competition may offer financial assistance or homestay accommodations to participants whose financial situation would otherwise prevent them from participating. For more information, please contact our organizing team at feuermann@udk-berlin.de.
 

Do I need a visa?

Participants are responsible for obtaining all visas and travel documents required for participation. The competition may provide the necessary documentation as needed.
 

What language is used during the competition?

The competition language is English. Competition staff will assist participants as much as possible.

What practice facilities are available?

Participants in the competition rounds in Berlin have access to the practice facilities at the Berlin University of the Arts.

Are all events at the Emanuel Feuermann Festival Berlin free of charge?

Yes, all events (master classes, recitals, competition rounds, and concerts) are free to attend.

Do I need a ticket to attend one of the events?

We recommend reserving a ticket through Pretix. Since seating is on a first-come, first-served basis, we recommend arriving early.