The “Domenico Cimarosa” International Flute Competition returns for its 14th edition, celebrating the legacy of the renowned Italian composer Domenico Cimarosa. Held every two years in his birthplace, Aversa, Italy, this prestigious competition offers flutists a global platform to showcase their talent in a city steeped in musical history.
Dates: April 9-11, 2025
Location: Aversa, Italy
Eligibility: Open to flutists of any nationality born after December 31, 1973
Named after the famed 18th-century composer, Domenico Cimarosa, the competition aims to preserve his musical legacy while fostering new generations of flutists. Known for his operas and instrumental works, Cimarosa’s influence continues to resonate with musicians worldwide. The competition is an homage to his contributions to classical music and serves as a platform for flutists to carry forward his artistic vision.
For participants, the competition is an opportunity to perform before a distinguished panel of judges and an audience in the beautiful town of Aversa. It provides a professional experience in a nurturing environment, helping young musicians build their reputations and careers. For the wider music community, the competition highlights emerging talent, creating a bridge between tradition and innovation in flute performance.
Competition Structure
The competition is divided into three rounds, each progressively more challenging:
Qualifying Round (Solo Flute)
- Date: April 9, 2025, 9:00 AM
- Location: Auditorium Casa Cimarosa
- Repertoire:
- S. Mercadante: Dieci Arie Variate (one selection)
- G. P. Telemann: Fantasia (one selection)
This round focuses on solo flute repertoire, showcasing the technical and expressive capabilities of each contestant. Flutists must demonstrate their mastery of tone, phrasing, and virtuosity through classic works by Mercadante and Telemann.
Semifinals (Flute and Piano)
- Date: April 10, 2025, 3:00 PM
- Location: Auditorium Hotel del Sole
- Repertoire:
- Flute and Piano (select one):
- P. Sancan: Sonatine
- H. Dutilleux: Sonatine
- F. Martin: Ballade
- Solo Flute (select one):
- C. Debussy: Syrinx
- J. Ibert: Pièce
- A. Honegger: Danse de la Chèvre
- E. Varèse: Density 21.5
In the semifinals, contestants perform with a piano accompanist, blending their flute skills with piano artistry. They must demonstrate their interpretative abilities by performing a more diverse range of pieces, showing depth in musicality, technical agility, and their collaborative skills.
Final Round (Flute and Piano)
- Date: April 11, 2025, 3:00 PM
- Location: Auditorium Hotel del Sole
- Repertoire:
- Flute and Piano (select one):
- B. Romberg: Concerto in si minore
- S. Mercadante: Concerto in Mi minore
In the final round, participants perform a full concert-style recital accompanied by piano, solidifying their mastery of advanced flute concertos. This round simulates a professional concert setting, pushing flutists to perform with polish and poise.
Awards and Concert Performance
Prizes
The winners will receive the following:
- First Prize:
- Rotary Award of €1,500
- Trophy and Diploma
- Second Prize:
- Rotary Award of €1,000
- Trophy and Diploma
- Third Prize:
- Rotary Award of €500
- Trophy and Diploma
The competition culminates with a public concert by the first-place winner, who will perform alongside a pianist in the prestigious Chiesa Monumentale di S. Francesco on April 11, 2025, at 6:30 PM.
The Legacy of Domenico Cimarosa
Domenico Cimarosa, born in Aversa in 1749, was one of the most prolific and beloved composers of his time, with over 70 operas to his name. His works include the timeless opera Il matrimonio segreto, which remains a staple in opera houses worldwide. Cimarosa’s legacy lives on through his compositions, and the competition bearing his name ensures that his artistic spirit continues to inspire new generations of musicians.
In celebrating Cimarosa’s music and Italian cultural heritage, the competition also encourages global artistic exchange, offering musicians from around the world a unique chance to perform in Italy, a country synonymous with classical music excellence.
How to Apply
Interested flutists must submit their applications no later than March 31, 2025, along with the following documents:
- Applicant’s résumé
- List of selected compositions
- Two passport-size photos
- Copy of an identification document
- Proof of payment of the €120 registration fee
Applications should be sent to info@concorsocimarosa.it. Incomplete applications will not be accepted.
The Domenico Cimarosa International Flute Competition is more than just a contest—it’s an opportunity to be a part of Italy’s rich musical tradition. Whether you are a participant or a spectator, this event promises a celebration of musical artistry at its highest level.
The official website of the Competition: www.concorsocimarosa.it
