Second highest number of entries in the history of tuba competitions – 113 entries from 32 countries

Following record numbers of entries in the horn category, this year's 61st International Instrumental Competition in Markneukirchen has also seen one of the highest numbers of entries in its history for the tuba category. By the closing date for entries on 31 January, 113 participants from 32 countries across five continents had submitted their applications.

This is the second-highest number of registrations ever achieved for a tuba competition in Markneukirchen. Only the 2016 edition exceeded this figure, with a total of 118 registrations. At the same time, the international participation of 32 nations represents a historic high – a result that has only been achieved in 2016. China (24), Japan (16), the USA (10), Spain (6) and Germany (6) are particularly well represented this year. For the first time in a Markneukirchen competition, a participant from Malaysia has registered. Iceland and Panama have also not been represented in the tuba category before. The age range of the registered tuba players extends from 15 to the age limit of 32.

The participants will travel together with the horn candidates to the music town of Markneukirchen on 6 May 2026. The competition will take place from 7 to 16 May 2026 in three rounds: in the Markneukirchen Music Hall (horn) and in the Old Castle in Erlbach (tuba), including the final rounds in the Markneukirchen Music Hall. A diverse competition repertoire is required, ranging from Robert Schumann's romantic Adagio & Allegro to contemporary works and the well-known tuba concerto by John Williams, a composer whose film music has enjoyed great success.

The performances will be evaluated by an internationally renowned jury chaired by Prof. Christian Lampert and presided over by Prof. Jörg Wachsmuth (Germany). Other jury members include Prof. Øystein Baadsvik (Norway), Prof. Jens Bjørn-Larsen (Denmark), Prof. Gérard Buquet (France), Prof. Ulrich Haas (Germany), Prof. em. Eiichi Inagawa (Japan) and Prof. Daniel Perantoni (USA).