One of the most renowned string instrument competitions in the world, the Primrose International Viola Competition features the world’s best and most promising young violists. The Competition will offer Southern California three days of exceptional international competition, exquisite music, and an exhilarating finish.
All rounds of the competition are open to the public to enjoy in person at the Colburn campus in Los Angeles and online via livestream.
Prizes Awarded
1ST PRIZE *
$8,000
2ND PRIZE
$5,000
3RD PRIZE
$3,000
TRANSCRIPTIONS PRIZE
$1,000
ILLUMINATION PRIZE**
$1,000
* The First Prize winner will also receive the following: 1) an invitation to perform a Featured Signature Artist Recital at the 2028 AVS Festival 2) a three-year loan of the AVS 18th-century Kloz family “Zanoli” Viola 3) a recital performance on the Dame Myra Hess Series in Chicago 4) a recital performance at Colburn
** For best performance of the commissioned work by Sungji Hong
For Competitors
Founded in 1979 as the first international competition solely for violists, the Primrose International Viola Competition is proud of the rich history and legacy it promotes. The Competition has an international reputation for identifying the talent of tomorrow and is respected for its artistic and professional integrity. In 2027, 12 Quarter‐Finalists will be invited to compete for cash prizes and awards totaling more than $18,000 US dollars.
2027 GUIDELINES
Repertoire, guidelines, schedule, and application
PRIMROSE FESTIVAL
The competition will run concurrently with the Primrose Festival, a three-day celebration of the viola bringing together performers, educators, students, luthiers, and viola enthusiasts for performances, masterclasses, presentations, exhibits, and much more.