Learn more and apply now for the inaugural edition of the Danish International Cello Competition in 2027, where participants will not only compete, but enjoy long-term career development
From 26 June to 3 July, 2027, the Danish International Cello Competition will welcome 24 exceptional young cellists from around the world to Sønderborg, Denmark, for a week of competition, artistic exchange and professional development.
Hosted by the Danish Philharmonic Orchestra at the award-winning Alsion Concert Hall, the competition is led by internationally acclaimed cellist Daniel Müller-Schott, who serves as competition president and jury chair. Together with an internationally distinguished jury of performers and industry professionals, he will help shape a competition that looks beyond the traditional pursuit of prizes and rankings.
The vision behind the Danish International Cello Competition is simple: to create a competition that supports artists not only during the performance, but throughout the beginning of their professional careers.
Alongside the competition runs CelloBridge, an integrated mentorship programme designed to provide every participant with meaningful artistic and professional development. Through coaching, industry talks, networking opportunities and individual mentoring, contestants will meet leading performers, managers, recording executives and communications specialists from across the international classical music sector. Importantly, participants remain part of the programme even after elimination, reflecting the competition’s belief that artistic growth does not end with the results.
The competition also seeks to remove practical barriers. Accommodation is fully provided for all selected participants throughout the competition week, encouraging them to remain in Sønderborg, engage with fellow musicians and become part of a collaborative artistic community rather than simply arriving to compete and leave.
The winner of the Larsen Strings First Prize receives far more than financial support. The first prize includes €14,000, ten concert engagements with Nordic and European orchestras, an album recording with the Danish Philharmonic Orchestra released by PENTATONE, three years of artist management with Nordic Artists Management and extended mentorship opportunities with Daniel Müller-Schott, Trudy Wright and For Artists.
Located in the Danish-German border region, the competition aims to become a new international meeting place for young cellists – where excellence, mentorship and artistic curiosity are given equal importance.
Applications open 15 August 2026 and close 25 October 2026.
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