Polstjärnepriset 2026 has had its big final in Gothenburg Concert Hall. After 3 competition rounds during 4 intensive days, Monday afternoon was the time to decide who would be this year’s winner.
After winning, Edward said: “I have always heard about Polstjärnepriset and its winners, and now being one of them feels like a dream. Playing with such a wonderful orchestra and in front of a fantastic audience feels absolutely incredible.” Edward comes from Stockholm and graduated from Lilla Akademien this summer. He is now studying at the music academy in Basel, Switzerland. Next on his agenda is a solo concert in Basel, where he will play Swedish music, including Stenhammar. He will also play at the Vadstena Piano Festival this summer.
The jury’s motivation reads: “Edward Ahlbeck Glader unites musical maturity with sincere playing and a passionate expression. His generous musicianship and strong charisma always feel spontaneous, and his interpretation is created in the moment.” As the winner, Edward Ahlbeck Glader receives 50,000 Swedish kronor. He will go on to represent Sweden in Eurovision Young Musicians, Europe’s largest competition for young classical musicians, which is watched by over a million television viewers across Europe.
Four young Swedish classical musicians performed with the Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra in the final of Polstjärnepriset 2026, but the competition included a total of 20 young soloists from across the country. Second prize went to violinist Hansine Pellbäck, third to violinist Sara Hagman and fourth to saxophonist Erik Dalhielm. Next year marks the 20th anniversary and the third Nordic edition of the competition. Polstjärnepriset takes place in Vänersborg and Gothenburg, Sweden.
