The 3rd Berlin Composition Prize 2026 (Duo) is looking for bold voices, fresh sounds, and new musical ideas. We want to hear music that crosses boundaries – stylistically, culturally, emotionally. If you compose because you have to – this is for you.

Berlin invites you. No labels. No limitations. Just your art.

Main prize: 5,000 EUR
world premiere at the SONARLOFT concert at Kühlhaus Berlin

Two development prizes: 1,000 EUR each

You are 35 or younger (cut-off date: September 15, 2026)

You compose – classical, experimental, electroacoustic, jazz, or genre-free

You’ve written a piece for duo formations (violin, viola, cello, piano - two pianos as well as piano four hands are excluded) that has not been performed or published,

You want your music to be professionally premiered in Berlin

An international jury of composers and musicians will listen, read and discuss openly and attentively.
Your biography is not part of the evaluation. The evaluation will be anony