Irving M. Klein International String Competition

The Irving M. Klein International String Competition, held each June at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, is open to violinists, violists, cellists, and bassists of any nationality aged 15-23 at the time of the competition who are not under professional management.

Applicants submit a recorded audition of about thirty minutes, including solo Bach, a concerto movement, and a 20th- or 21st-century work. Nine semifinalists compete live in San Francisco.

First Prize totals about $15,000 ($5,000 cash plus paid concerto and recital engagements with California orchestras and festivals); Second Prize is $5,500, Third $2,500, and two Fourth Prizes of $1,500 each, from a prize pool over $30,000. Applications open in early November and close January 31; the application fee is $150 with waivers available.