The philosophy and objectives of the music festival
The Wakayama International Music Festival is more than just a concert; it's a groundbreaking music festival that combines a music competition with international performances. Participants have the opportunity to not only showcase their talent but also compete for prestige.
Our goal is to inspire and bring joy to music lovers through high-quality stage performances and strong support from the Wakayama City Hall, serving as a platform for nurturing musical talent.
International music festivals foster not only tangible results but also the growth of participants and international connections.
The diverse musical performances showcased by participants from various countries through competitions and concerts inspire audiences to explore the world of music in greater depth.
Outstanding award winners will be given the opportunity to perform with orchestras, and young talents will be sent onto the world stage to make the transmission of music even more vibrant.
FESTIVAL SCHEDULE 2026
Held in Wakayama City from August 1st to 5th, 2026.
Music Festival Schedule and Progress Chart
Saturday, August 1st
EXCHANGE
International Exchange - 58th Kishu Odori Festival "Bundara-bushi"
Meet at 16:00 (location will be announced later). Participate in a traditional Wakayama festival and enjoy cultural exchange.
August 2nd (Sunday)
PREPARATION
Rehearsals, masterclasses, piano accompaniment practice
9:00 AM onwards. Practice room sessions: 30 minutes each. Masterclass (one-on-one, 40 minutes). Piano accompaniment practice (40 minutes). No make-up lessons for late arrivals.
Monday, August 3rd
COMPETITION
Music competition (individual and group categories)
9:00 Opening Ceremony (Mayor's Address)
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM: Competition
(Venue: Wakayama Prefectural Cultural Hall, Large and Small Halls) | Forfeited after failing to respond to 3 calls
August 4th (Tuesday)
GALA AWARD
Gala Concert, Awards Ceremony, Closing Ceremony
9:20 Opening Ceremony | 9:30 Wakayama International Music Festival Concerts Begin - Solo performances by orchestras of 25 or more members from various countries (20 minutes or less)
- Solo and chamber music performances by 8 individuals (or groups) recommended by the jury.
17:00 Closing Ceremony and Awards Ceremony: Welcome address by the Mayor → Wakayama-style performance → Awarding of the Music Grand Prize, certificates, and trophies → Awarding of certificates of honor to all participants *Certificates of honor cannot be reissued for those absent from the closing ceremony.
Wednesday, August 5th
SIGHTSEEING
Wakayama sightseeing and disbanding
Wakayama Castle, Wakaura, Kuroshio Market, etc. Cherish these connections.
See you again next year!
Regarding the Certificate of Honor
The International Music Festival's certificate of honor recognizes participants who have taken part in the entire festival and actively engaged in their studies. It serves as recognition of their musical talent, as well as encouragement for their learning attitude and teamwork spirit.
The conditions for receiving the award are obtaining the seals for all three of the following items, and the person must personally attend the closing ceremony and appear on stage.
Participate in a competition or concert. (One seal)
Participate in a flash mob, or upload photos/videos you take to social media. (One stamp)
Attend a concert held on August 4th for 30 minutes or more (any time slot). (One seal)
*If all three seals are missing, or if the person in question is not present or speaks at the closing ceremony, the certificate cannot be awarded. No replacements will be issued under any circumstances.
All participants are required to be punctual and attend on time.
Preparation Day Flow
August 2nd (Sunday), 9:00 AM onwards. A day of practice, instruction, and interaction in preparation for the main event.
independent practice
The practice rooms will be open from 9:00 (30 minutes per session, prior application required).
Limited availability
- Chamber music groups and orchestras must thoroughly clean up after use. - Food and drinks are not allowed in the practice rooms. - Please leave the room on time.
Piano accompaniment practice
From 9:00, a professional piano instructor will provide accompaniment (40 minutes per person).
- Submit the song title and digital sheet music in advance. - Discuss the performance style and tempo with the instructor beforehand. - Prepare outside the practice room 5 minutes before the lesson. - Follow the notification regarding the accompanist, time, and location.
Master Class
One-on-one instruction (40 minutes) by renowned musicians and educators starting at 9:00.
- Actively ask questions and make the most of professional advice. - Follow the notification regarding the selection of the master, time, and location. - Avoid personal exchanges and participate with a polite attitude.
⚠️ General Precautions Do not bring drinks or food into the practice room. Put away your personal belongings early and leave on time. Take all your trash with you and leave the room tidy so that all users can use it comfortably. There will be no make-up lessons for late arrivals.