International Competition for Young Musicians «Symphony of Yamal» is the first international competition of its kind for academic musicians held in Russia’s Arctic zone.

The competition is designed to promote classical art, give talented young musicians the opportunity to make themselves known, and strengthen and expand cultural ties across the borders. The competition is open to gifted classical musicians aged 16 to 30 inclusive in the following categories: piano, violin and cello.

The competition consists of the first preliminary round, II and III rounds, and a Final.

The first round is held remotely (via video recordings), while the second, and third rounds and the Final will be held in person in Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug. The first and second rounds involve solo performances (for the violin and cello categories, accompanied by an accompanist if necessary), while the third round and the Final are accompanied by an orchestra.

The first qualifying round (remotely, via video recordings) will take place between 15 September 2025 and 30 October 2025.

The second round, third round and the Final (closing ceremony) will take place between 10 February 2026 and 15 February 2026 in Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug.

The authoritative jury will include prominent figures in culture and the arts – world-renowned musicians from Russia and abroad.

The artistic director of the competition is Denis Matsuev, People’s Artist of the Russian Federation, laureate of the State Prize of the Russian Federation in the field of culture and art, member of the Presidential Council for Culture and Art, UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador, and president of the New Names Interregional Charitable Foundation.

Future winners will receive cash prizes:

Grand Prix of the competition — 1 000 000 roubles;

I prize — 500 000 roubles;

II prize – 400 000 roubles;

III prize – 300 000 roubles;

Diploma holder – 100 000 roubles.