Polstjärnepriset was established in 2007 by the municipality of Vänersborg as an annual competition for Sweden’s best young classical musicians. Over the years, Polstjärnepriset has evolved into more than a competition – the purpose of Polstjärnepriset is to recognise young talents who play classical music and help them in their continued musical development. The competition element is complemented by teaching and seminars as well as orchestral and ensemble playing where all participants also get the chance to play and perform together.
Since 2023, the competition alternates between a Nordic Edition, where young musicians from all
Nordic countries can participate, and a Swedish Edition. Polstjärnepriset 2026 will be a Swedish
Edition.
Nationellt centrum för musiktalanger (based in Vänersborg, Sweden)
The participants should be aged from 14 to 18 years old.
The competition has three rounds (the final round with the accompaniment of Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra).
Polstjärnepriset consists of both a competition and a course.
Every year
30/10/2025 – 02/11/2025 – part 1
01/01/2026 – 06/01/2026 – part 2
15 June every year.
The following information is required to complete the application form:
Eligible for the competition are musicians born 2006-2010, playing one of the standard classical orchestral instruments including piano. Organ, guitar, accordion, and percussion are excluded from the competition.
Polstjärnepriset is divided into two periods: part 1, 30 October-2 November 2025 and part 2, 1- 6 January 2026. The semi-final takes place on 3 January in Vänersborg. The final will be held on 6 January at Gothenburg Concert Hall (Göteborgs Konserthus).
During Polstjärnepriset part 1, in November, the competition focuses on development, inspiration and preparation. The participants will receive individual lessons and have the chance to play together with the other musicians, both from the course and the competition. Most participants also perform during concerts in Vänersborg.
During the first week of January, competitors play their first round for the Polstjärnepriset jury.
From the first round, eight participants will be chosen for the semi-finals, which are held as a public concert in Vänersborg. All participants who do not progress to the semi-finals receive
feedback and classes from the jury. They also continue to play in ensembles and orchestras, participating in the Polstjärnepriset concerts in Vänersborg and Gothenburg.
At the semi-final, the jury selects four finalists who will play their final round at the Gothenburg Concert Hall together with the Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra. At the final, the jury chooses the winner and announces the other prize-winners.
TBA
First Prize – 50 000 SEK
Second Prize – 10 000 SEK
Third Prize – 5 000 SEK
Fourth Prize – 5 000 SEK
All taxes are paid by the prize-winners.
The winner of the competition is also offered:
www.yomacenter/polstjarnepriset
