On February 24 and 25, the third edition of the "René Arons International Improvisation Contest" will be held. This contest is organized in memory of René Arons, pianist, improviser and beloved teacher.
WHERE?
The contest will take place in the White Hall of the Royal Conservatoire Antwerp.
WHEN?
Saturday 24 February 2024
- afternoon: first round
Sunday 25 February 2024
- morning: second round
- evening: concert and proclamation
WHO?
The contest is open to all musicians worldwide who have not reached the age of 30 on 24 February 2024. Candidates can participate as soloists or in any other formation.
ENTRANCE FEE
- Soloist: € 25
- Duet: € 50
- Trio and larger ensembles: € 75
IMPROVISATION STYLE
All styles are allowed: partimento & regole, tonal, modal, free style, jazz, etc. The candidate will have to present at least two improvisations, one of which will be an instant improvisation on a given theme.
AMPLIFICATION
For practical reasons global amplification is not possible. However, individually amplified acoustic/electric (bass)guitar in ensemble is allowed. In that case the candidate has to provide their own equipment.
JURY
The jury will consist of a selection of improvisation teachers from European Conservatories. Chair: Yves Senden (Royal Conservatoire Antwerp).
AWARDS
Prizes (between € 300 and € 500) are awarded in the following categories:
- best improvisation in the partimento/regole tradition
- best tonal/modal improvisation
- best free improvisation
- best improvisation on the imposed theme
- best solo improvisation
- wildcard award #1
- wildcard award #2
Additionaly, the Aronskelk-prize is awarded to the most authentic and creative improvisation. This symbolic award consists of a small sculpture in the shape of an arum lily. The jury reserves the right to withhold any award in case the required standard is not met.
HOW TO APPLY
Please contact Yves Senden (yves.senden@ap.be) to obtain detailed information about the contest rules and regulations and the entry procedure. Entry deadline: 30 November 2023.
ACCOMODATION
Candidates are responsible for booking their own accommodation.