Launched in November 2012, the competition offers a multitude of prizes and opportunities to the winners and runners-up, including exclusive scholarships to the School, cash prizes and performance opportunities with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and Whitgift Chamber Orchestra.

The competition is open to string players from age 12 to 17 and is divided into three age categories. The grand prize for the winner of each age group is a full scholarship to Whitgift School, including instrumental tuition and full board in the new boarding house, which is due to open later this year.

To apply, musicians submit a YouTube video of them performing a piece of their choice. The finalists will then be invited to Whitgift School to perform in front of a jury on 1st and 2nd July. The jury will consist of Royal Academy of Music Professor, Remus Azoitei; a member nominated by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra; acclaimed cellist and former winner of the BBC Young Musician of the Year competition, Guy Johnston; novelist and Independent journalist, Jessica Duchen; and Whitgift’s Director of Music Development, Rosanna Whitfield, and Head of Orchestral Music, Philip Winter. The Winners concert and official Prize-giving will take place on Wednesday 3rd July at 6pm.

If you are a string player aged 12 to 17 and would like to apply for this fantastic opportunity, visit the competition website here before it’s too late!