The 114th edition of the Concurso Juventudes Musicales, a national benchmark for promoting exceptional young talent, concluded its live rounds at the Royal Conservatory of Music of Madrid. Trombonist Héctor Mora (Brass) and saxophonist Juan David Toro (Woodwind) took First Prize. Euphonium player Ibai de Miguel was the runner-up in the brass category, while flautist Celia García González earned second place in the woodwind category. Selected from 75 candidates nationwide, these young soloists showcased extraordinary artistry across five public elimination rounds.
As winners, Héctor Mora and Juan David Toro will join the prestigious JM Spain Music Network for two concert seasons starting in the 2027–2028 academic year, with the runners-up participating for one season. Since 1979, the competition has launched the international careers of renowned artists such as pianist Javier Perianes and the Cuarteto Casals, bridging the gap between academic study and the professional stage.
The prestigious jury, chaired by clarinetist Joan Enric Lluna, conducted the evaluation following the international standards of the European Union of Music Competitions for Youth (EMCY), of which Concurso Juventudes Musicales is the sole Spanish member. Founded in 1951, the Confederation of Musical Youth of Spain (JME) continues to lead national youth arts initiatives, organising over 100 concerts annually as part of what UNESCO recognises as the world’s most important youth cultural movement.
