ZARINA ALTYNBAYEVA YOUTH MUSIC COMPETITION
REGULATIONS
on the Organization of the VI International Academic Youth Music Competition
«Zarina Altynbayeva Youth Music Competition»
on the Organization of the VI International Academic Youth Music Competition
«Zarina Altynbayeva Youth Music Competition»
REGULATIONS
on the Organization of the VI International Academic Youth MusicCompetition
«Zarina Altynbayeva Youth Music Competition»
General Provisions
1.1. These Regulations govern the procedure for holding the VI International Academic Youth Music
Competition “Zarina Altynbayeva Youth Music Competition,” which will take place from October 29
to November 3, 2026.
1.2. The “Zarina Altynbayeva Youth Music Competition” is founded on the basis of the Republican
academic youth competition “Prima Nota Fest”, held in Kazakhstan since 2019.
1.3. The founder and artistic director of the Competition is Zarina Altynbayeva, Honored Worker of the
Republic of Kazakhstan, leading soprano soloist of the Abay Kazakh National Opera and Ballet
Theatre.
1.4. Co-organizer of the Competition – the Culture Department of the Almaty City Administration.
1.5. Venue: Almaty, Republic of Kazakhstan.
2. Mission, Vision, and Goals of the Competition
2.1. Mission:
To identify, support, and nurture talented young musicians from Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan,
Türkiye, Turkmenistan, and Kyrgyzstan, providing them with a unique platform to realize their creative
potential. The competition also aims to foster cultural exchange and diversity through classical music,
thereby contributing to the development of a new generation of musical leaders.
2.2. Vision:
To create an inspiring, competitive, and innovative platform that promotes professional growth and
cooperation among young classical musicians throughout the Turkic-speaking world.
2.3. Goals:
▪ To discover and support talented children and youth in the field of classical performance and assist
their professional development;
▪ To promote academic music as a key component of moral and spiritual education;
▪ To facilitate musical exchange and cooperation among participants from Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Türkiye, Turkmenistan, and Kyrgyzstan;
▪ To support talent through educational programs and masterclasses led by distinguished musicians and educators;
▪ To preserve and promote classical music traditions, folk art, and works by composers of the Turkic world;
▪ To create a unified musical community for experience-sharing and professional networking;
▪ To encourage intercultural understanding and respect through the universal language of music;
▪ To attract public and media attention to classical performance among youth;
▪ To establish the “Zarina Altynbayeva Youth Music Competition” as a key cultural event and leading classical youth competition in the Turkic region.
3. Categories of the Zarina Altynbayeva Youth Music Competition
The Competition includes the following categories:
3.1. Academic Vocals;
3.2. Piano;
3.3. String Instruments (Violin and Cello).
4. Eligibility and Participant Requirements
4.1. The Competition is open to young musicians who are ready to begin an international performance career and who hold citizenship or permanent residency in the following countries: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, and Türkiye.
4.2. Age categories for “Academic Vocal”:
First category: 10 to 14 full years of age at the time of the Competition. Second category: 15 to 17 full years of age at the time of the Competition.
4.3. Age categories for “Piano”:
First category: 10 to 12 full years of age at the time of the Competition. Second category: 13 to 15 full years of age at the time of the Competition.
4.4. Age categories for “String Instruments”:
First category: 10 to 12 full years of age at the time of the Competition. Second category: 13 to 15 full years of age at the time of the Competition.
4.5. In the “Academic Vocals” category, the use of backing tracks (minus tracks) and sound amplification equipment is strictly prohibited in all rounds.;
4.6. Grand Prix winners and First Prize laureates of previous editions of the Competition are not eligible to participate in the Competition again, regardless of the nomination, age category, or the year in which the award was received.
4.7. A participant is not eligible to apply for more than one category;
5. Competition Structure and Timeline
5.1. The Competition is conducted in two rounds:
Round I — Preliminary Round (online, video submission).
This stage is conducted remotely. A professional selection panel will evaluate the submitted video recordings. Only participants selected through this preliminary stage will be invited to the final round.
Round II — Final Round (live performances).
Final auditions will be held in person at the Kurmanazy Kazakh National Conservatory in Almaty, in the Yerkegali Rakhmadiyev Grand Organ Hall.
5.2. Competition Timeline:
• Round I (Qualifying Round, online) – 1–25 September 2026 (submission of applications and video recordings);
• Announcement of the results of participants admitted to Round II – 1 October 2026;
• Arrival of out-of-town and international participants – 30 October 2026;
• Opening of Round II, participant registration and drawing of lots – 30 October 2026;
• Live Auditions (Final Round) – 31 October 2026;
• Live Auditions (Final Round) – 1 November 2026;
• Gala Concert, announcement of the Competition results and Award Ceremony – 2 November 2026;
• Departure of participants and guests – 3 November 2026.
6. Competition Repertoire
6.1. Discipline: Academic Vocals
Important Note:
Applicants are kindly asked not to submit an application if the child is currently undergoing or has not completed vocal mutation (voice change). For this reason, the age range in the younger category has been extended.
Category I: Ages 10–14 (inclusive) Round I (Video Submission)
Total duration: no more than 8 minutes
1. A folk song or a song from a children’s play, film, or cartoon, accompanied by piano (a cappella performance is allowed and encouraged).
2. An academic vocal work composed for voice and piano by a composer of the 17th–20th centuries.
Round II (Final Round — live performance with piano accompaniment)
Total duration: no more than 12 minutes
1. An academic vocal work by a composer of the 17th–20th centuries.
2. A vocal work by a composer from the participant’s home country, or a folk song of the participant’s nation (accompanied by piano or performed a cappella).
Category II: Ages 15–17 (inclusive) Round I (Video Submission)
Total duration: no more than 10 minutes
1. An early aria or art song by a composer of the 17th–18th centuries.
2. A romance or art song for voice and piano by a composer of the participant’s choice.
Round II (Final Round — live performance with piano accompaniment)
Total duration: no more than 15 minutes
1. An aria or arietta by a composer of the 17th–20th centuries.
2. A vocal work by a composer from the participant’s home country, or a folk song of the participant’s nation (accompanied by piano or performed a cappella).
Note:
In the second item of round II, each participant must present a work that reflects the musical heritage of their own country — either a composition by a national composer or a folk song arranged for performance
6.2. Discipline: Piano
Category I: Ages 10–12 (inclusive) Round I (Video Submission)
Total duration: no more than 10 minutes
1. A polyphonic piece
2. An etude or a virtuosic work
Round II (Final Round — live performance)
Total duration: no more than 15 minutes
1. A large-scale form (e.g. first movement of a sonata, or complete 2–3 movements; or a set of variations)
2. A virtuosic piece
3. A work by a composer from the participant’s home country or an arrangement of a national folk song
Category II: Ages 13–15 (inclusive) Round I (Video Submission)
Total duration: no more than 15 minutes
1. A polyphonic work
2. An etude
Round II (Final Round — live performance)
Total duration: no more than 17 minutes
1. A large-scale form (e.g. first movement of a sonata, or complete 2–3 movements; or a set of variations)
2. A virtuosic piece
3. A work by a composer from the participant’s home country or an arrangement of a national folk song
Note:
In the third item of round II, each participant must present a work that reflects the musical heritage of their own country — either a composition by a national composer or a folk song arranged for performance
6.3. Discipline: String Instruments (Violin & Cello)
Category I: Ages 10–12 (inclusive) Round I (Video Submission)
Total duration: no more than 10 minutes
1. An etude or caprice
2. A cantilena-style piece
Round II (Final Round — live performance with piano accompaniment)
Total duration: no more than 15 minutes
1. A virtuosic extended work
2. A piece by a composer from the participant’s home country or an arrangement of a national folk song
Category II: Ages 13–15 (inclusive) Round I (Video Submission)
Total duration: no more than 15 minutes
1. A caprice
2. A virtuosic extended work (must be distinctly virtuosic in nature)
Round II (Final Round — live performance with piano accompaniment)
Total duration: no more than 17 minutes
1. A concerto (1st movement or 2nd and 3rd movements)
2. A piece by a composer from the participant’s home country or an arrangement of a national folk song
Note:
In the second item of round II, each participant must present a work that reflects the musical heritage of their own country — either a composition by a national composer or a folk song arranged for performance
7. Procedures for the Zarina Altynbayeva Youth Music Competition
7.1. All applications must be submitted using the official form available on the Competition website.
7.2. Applications, together with all required documents and video materials, must be submitted online no later than 23:59 (Astana time) on 25 September 2026.
7.3. After the application has been reviewed by the Organizing Committee, the participant will receive an electronic notification regarding the review results. Applications that meet all Competition requirements will be accepted for consideration. In the event of errors or missing documents, the participant will be notified and requested to make the necessary corrections;
7.4. Applications submitted after the deadline will not be accepted or considered by the Organizing Committee;
7.5. Applications that do not comply with the conditions of these Regulations, are incomplete, or lack the required documents or video recordings, will not be accepted;
7.6. Candidates are responsible for ensuring their application is submitted by the deadline. The Organizing Committee assumes no responsibility if the application is not received on time;
7.7. If a candidate experience technical difficulties during the application process, they must immediately inform the Organizing Committee by emailing zarina.altynbayeva.competition@gmail.com to ensure timely submission. To avoid technical issues, candidates are strongly advised to upload their videos at least 48 hours prior to the deadline;
7.8. Submission of an application confirms the candidate’s full acceptance of the Competition’s rules and conditions.
8. Required Documents for Application Submission:
8.1.To participate in Round I, the applicant must provide a link to a video recording of the competition programme uploaded exclusively to YouTube with the access setting “Unlisted”.
The video recording must consist of a single continuous video containing the complete competition programme submitted for Round I. Short pauses between pieces are permitted if necessary to prepare for the performance of the next work, provided that the recording is not stopped.
Editing, cutting, splicing, audio or video enhancement, or any other alteration of the recording is not permitted. The video must contain synchronized audio and video of the performer throughout the entire performance.
The title of the video must include the participant’s full name, category, and nomination. The description of the video must contain the programme being performed.
Links to multiple separate videos, playlists, cloud storage services (Google Drive, Dropbox, Yandex Disk, etc.), or any materials that do not constitute a single continuous recording of the competition programme will not be accepted for consideration.
8.2.A biography of the candidate (maximum 150 words) written in Kazakh, English, Turkish, or Russian, including participation in competitions, festivals, concerts, and musical projects.
8.3. A scanned copy or photograph (high resolution) of the candidate's birth certificate or passport.
8.4. A high-resolution artistic color photograph in digital format (close-up portrait, no selfies). Black-and-white or overly edited photos will not be accepted.
8.5. The competition programme submitted by the participant in the application form shall be considered final and may not be changed. Substitution of works, addition of new works, or removal of works from the submitted programme is not permitted. The order of performance of the declared works may be changed at the participant’s discretion.
8.6. All participants must submit copies of the sheet music for the works to be performed in Round II in electronic PDF format at the time of application.
8.7. Participants may perform with their own accompanist. If necessary, the Organizing Committee will provide an accompanist free of charge, upon prior agreement.
9. Review of Applications for the Zarina Altynbayeva Youth Music Competition
9.1. Applications will be reviewed by the Selection Committee specially established for this purpose. If necessary, the Competition may request additional information from candidates. Videos submitted after the official deadline will not be reviewed, and the candidates will not be admitted to the Competition.
9.2. The performance and Gala Concert programs will be reviewed by the Artistic Committee specially established for this purpose. The Committee reserves the right to make necessary adjustments to the program to ensure its compliance with the Competition’s rules and artistic standards. After the application deadline (no later than 11:59 PM, September 25, 2026), no changes to the submitted program will be permitted, except in cases where such changes are requested by the
Artistic Committee or the Competition’s management team.
9.3. Advancement to the Second Round. Once candidates' applications have been reviewed and accepted by the Organizing Committee, and their programs approved by the Selection and Artistic Committees, successful candidates will be notified of their admission to the Second Round.
10. General Regulations Regarding the Competition Program and Participant Performances
10.1. The performance order will be determined by an open public drawing of lots and will remain unchanged;
10.2. Each candidate will be allocated equal rehearsal time;
10.3. Candidates accepted into the Competition are required to participate in the Second Round unless prevented by illness or force majeure;
10.4. Candidates must treat each performance as a full-fledged recital, carefully curating their program accordingly. The jury will evaluate each performance individually;
10.5. All pieces must be performed from memory;
10.6. Candidates may include self-composed or self-arranged works in their programs;
10.7. Participants, laureates, and prize-winners selected by the jury are required to perform at the Gala Concert free of charge, with the repertoire chosen by the jury members;
10.8. The Organizing Committee reserves the right to broadcast and record all Competition events via television, radio, internet, and any digital media without requiring consent from participants and without paying any fees.
11. Functions and Eligibility of the Organizing Committee of the Zarina Altynbayeva Youth Music Competition
А) The Organizing Committee is authorized to:
11.1. In the event of significant circumstances that prevent the Competition from being conducted as provided for in these Regulations, introduce necessary amendments;
11.2. Remove a participant from any stage of the Competition if the participant and/or their legal representatives violate the terms and conditions set forth herein or disobey the organizers' requirements;
11.3. Refuse to engage in written or any other communications with participants, except as provided in these Regulations;
11.4. Request additional information and documents from participants when necessary, including those required by public authorities;
11.5. Notify candidates of the obligation not to engage in any malicious actions that could harm the reputation of the Zarina Altynbayeva Youth Music Competition and/or its sponsors and partners. If a candidate is involved in such a situation, the Organizing Committee reserves the right to take any
necessary action from the First Round until the conclusion of all Competition events. Its decision will be final. Candidates found liable must indemnify the Competition for any damages caused..
Б) The Organizing Committee is obligated to:
11.6. Timely notify participants who have passed into the Second (Final) Round
11.7. Comply with the present Regulations and ensure that all activities related to the Competition are conducted within the established deadlines;
11.8. Inform participants of any amendments to the Competition documentation, cancellation of the Competition, or removal of a participant;
11.9. Ensure the Competition is held in accordance with these Regulations. В) Rights and Obligations of Participants:
11.10. Participants have the right to receive information about the dates and terms of the Competition;
11.11. Participants are obligated to comply with the present Regulations and fulfill all actions required for their participation according to the established rules.
12. Financial Terms
12.1. Participation in the Zarina Altynbayeva Youth Music Competition is free of charge;
12.2. Transportation expenses related to travel to Almaty must be covered by the participants themselves or their sponsoring organizations;
12.3. During the Competition, the Organizing Committee provides a standard hotel room (with breakfast included) for each non-resident participant and one accompanying adult. The hotel will be selected by the Organizing Committee and is not subject to change;
12.4. Participants arriving in Almaty before the official arrival date indicated in the invitation are responsible for covering their accommodation expenses until the official date;
12.5. Hotel check-in is available from 14:00 on 30 October 2026. Hotel check-out must be completed by 12:00 on 3 November 2026.
12.6. The Organizing Committee does not provide any form of insurance coverage for participants, their accompanists, or their teachers;
12.7. The Organizing Committee does not provide participants with stage costumes or footwear.
13. Functions of the Jury of the Zarina Altynbayeva Youth Music Competition
13.1. Performances of the participants are evaluated by an international jury;
13.2. Chairperson of the Jury — Zarina Altynbayeva;
13.3. The Competition Jury reserves the right to:
▪ Not award all prize places;
▪ Not award the Grand Prix;
▪ Split monetary prizes among participants who share a prize place;
▪ Award special and encouragement prizes and diplomas.
13.4. The Jury reserves the right to interrupt a participant’s performance if the time limit is exceeded;
13.5. In the event of a tie, the Chair of the Jury has the casting vote;
13.6. The decision of the Jury is final and not subject to appeal.
14. Prizes and Awards
14.1. Grand Prix of the Competition — 800,000; (The Grand Prix is awarded to only one participant, regardless of category. The absolute winner and holder of the Grand Prix are determined by the members of the Jury.)
14.2. First Prize — 350,000 KZT;
14.3. Second Prize — 250,000 KZT;
14.4. Third Prize — 200,000 KZT;
14.5. Special Prize for the Best Performance of a Work by a Composer or Folk Music of Turkic Nations (one prize awarded in each discipline) — 300,000 KZT;
14.6. Prize places (I, II, III) are awarded in each age group for all nominations;
14.7. Titles of laureates (I, II, III degrees) are awarded to participants in each nomination and age group;
14.8. Participants who reach the Final but do not win prizes will receive Certificates of Participation;
14.9. Accompanists and teachers of all participants who reach the Final will receive Diplomas and incentive
14.10. The teacher of the Grand Prix winner will additionally receive a monetary prize of 200,000 KZT;
14.11. State and public organizations, commercial companies, entrepreneurs, creative unions, and charitable foundations may establish special prizes and awards for participants in coordination with the Organizing Committee.
15. Appeals
15.1. A participant or their legal representative has the right to submit an appeal only regarding the accuracy of the final score calculation.
15.2. Appeals do not allow for the reconsideration of the Jury’s subjective evaluations and do not lead to changes in their decisions, except in cases of technical errors in the calculation.
15.3. Appeals must be submitted in writing within 24 hours after the announcement of the results.
15.4. The appeal must include:
▪ Full name of the participant;
▪ Category;
▪ Reason for the appeal (indication of a possible technical error in the scoring).
15.5. The Organizing Committee will review the appeal within 48 hours of submission and inform the applicant of the outcome.
15.6. The decision made upon review of the appeal is final and binding.
Contact Details of the Organizing Committee:
• WhatsApp: +7 777 641 4000
• E-mail: zarina.altynbayeva.competition@gmail.com
• Instagram: @zarina.altynbayeva.competition
• Consultations regarding participation in the Competition are provided on working days from 10:00 to 17:00 Astana time (GMT+5).
For efficient processing of inquiries, WhatsApp messages are accepted in text format only. Voice messages, audio files, and video messages will not be reviewed or considered by the Organizing Committee.
These Regulations have been drafted, reviewed, and approved by the Organizing Committee of the VI International Academic Competition for Young Musicians – Zarina Altynbayeva Youth Music Competition (ZAYMC).
10 June 2026
on the Organization of the VI International Academic Youth MusicCompetition
«Zarina Altynbayeva Youth Music Competition»
General Provisions
1.1. These Regulations govern the procedure for holding the VI International Academic Youth Music
Competition “Zarina Altynbayeva Youth Music Competition,” which will take place from October 29
to November 3, 2026.
1.2. The “Zarina Altynbayeva Youth Music Competition” is founded on the basis of the Republican
academic youth competition “Prima Nota Fest”, held in Kazakhstan since 2019.
1.3. The founder and artistic director of the Competition is Zarina Altynbayeva, Honored Worker of the
Republic of Kazakhstan, leading soprano soloist of the Abay Kazakh National Opera and Ballet
Theatre.
1.4. Co-organizer of the Competition – the Culture Department of the Almaty City Administration.
1.5. Venue: Almaty, Republic of Kazakhstan.
2. Mission, Vision, and Goals of the Competition
2.1. Mission:
To identify, support, and nurture talented young musicians from Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan,
Türkiye, Turkmenistan, and Kyrgyzstan, providing them with a unique platform to realize their creative
potential. The competition also aims to foster cultural exchange and diversity through classical music,
thereby contributing to the development of a new generation of musical leaders.
2.2. Vision:
To create an inspiring, competitive, and innovative platform that promotes professional growth and
cooperation among young classical musicians throughout the Turkic-speaking world.
2.3. Goals:
▪ To discover and support talented children and youth in the field of classical performance and assist
their professional development;
▪ To promote academic music as a key component of moral and spiritual education;
▪ To facilitate musical exchange and cooperation among participants from Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Türkiye, Turkmenistan, and Kyrgyzstan;
▪ To support talent through educational programs and masterclasses led by distinguished musicians and educators;
▪ To preserve and promote classical music traditions, folk art, and works by composers of the Turkic world;
▪ To create a unified musical community for experience-sharing and professional networking;
▪ To encourage intercultural understanding and respect through the universal language of music;
▪ To attract public and media attention to classical performance among youth;
▪ To establish the “Zarina Altynbayeva Youth Music Competition” as a key cultural event and leading classical youth competition in the Turkic region.
3. Categories of the Zarina Altynbayeva Youth Music Competition
The Competition includes the following categories:
3.1. Academic Vocals;
3.2. Piano;
3.3. String Instruments (Violin and Cello).
4. Eligibility and Participant Requirements
4.1. The Competition is open to young musicians who are ready to begin an international performance career and who hold citizenship or permanent residency in the following countries: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, and Türkiye.
4.2. Age categories for “Academic Vocal”:
First category: 10 to 14 full years of age at the time of the Competition. Second category: 15 to 17 full years of age at the time of the Competition.
4.3. Age categories for “Piano”:
First category: 10 to 12 full years of age at the time of the Competition. Second category: 13 to 15 full years of age at the time of the Competition.
4.4. Age categories for “String Instruments”:
First category: 10 to 12 full years of age at the time of the Competition. Second category: 13 to 15 full years of age at the time of the Competition.
4.5. In the “Academic Vocals” category, the use of backing tracks (minus tracks) and sound amplification equipment is strictly prohibited in all rounds.;
4.6. Grand Prix winners and First Prize laureates of previous editions of the Competition are not eligible to participate in the Competition again, regardless of the nomination, age category, or the year in which the award was received.
4.7. A participant is not eligible to apply for more than one category;
5. Competition Structure and Timeline
5.1. The Competition is conducted in two rounds:
Round I — Preliminary Round (online, video submission).
This stage is conducted remotely. A professional selection panel will evaluate the submitted video recordings. Only participants selected through this preliminary stage will be invited to the final round.
Round II — Final Round (live performances).
Final auditions will be held in person at the Kurmanazy Kazakh National Conservatory in Almaty, in the Yerkegali Rakhmadiyev Grand Organ Hall.
5.2. Competition Timeline:
• Round I (Qualifying Round, online) – 1–25 September 2026 (submission of applications and video recordings);
• Announcement of the results of participants admitted to Round II – 1 October 2026;
• Arrival of out-of-town and international participants – 30 October 2026;
• Opening of Round II, participant registration and drawing of lots – 30 October 2026;
• Live Auditions (Final Round) – 31 October 2026;
• Live Auditions (Final Round) – 1 November 2026;
• Gala Concert, announcement of the Competition results and Award Ceremony – 2 November 2026;
• Departure of participants and guests – 3 November 2026.
6. Competition Repertoire
6.1. Discipline: Academic Vocals
Important Note:
Applicants are kindly asked not to submit an application if the child is currently undergoing or has not completed vocal mutation (voice change). For this reason, the age range in the younger category has been extended.
Category I: Ages 10–14 (inclusive) Round I (Video Submission)
Total duration: no more than 8 minutes
1. A folk song or a song from a children’s play, film, or cartoon, accompanied by piano (a cappella performance is allowed and encouraged).
2. An academic vocal work composed for voice and piano by a composer of the 17th–20th centuries.
Round II (Final Round — live performance with piano accompaniment)
Total duration: no more than 12 minutes
1. An academic vocal work by a composer of the 17th–20th centuries.
2. A vocal work by a composer from the participant’s home country, or a folk song of the participant’s nation (accompanied by piano or performed a cappella).
Category II: Ages 15–17 (inclusive) Round I (Video Submission)
Total duration: no more than 10 minutes
1. An early aria or art song by a composer of the 17th–18th centuries.
2. A romance or art song for voice and piano by a composer of the participant’s choice.
Round II (Final Round — live performance with piano accompaniment)
Total duration: no more than 15 minutes
1. An aria or arietta by a composer of the 17th–20th centuries.
2. A vocal work by a composer from the participant’s home country, or a folk song of the participant’s nation (accompanied by piano or performed a cappella).
Note:
In the second item of round II, each participant must present a work that reflects the musical heritage of their own country — either a composition by a national composer or a folk song arranged for performance
6.2. Discipline: Piano
Category I: Ages 10–12 (inclusive) Round I (Video Submission)
Total duration: no more than 10 minutes
1. A polyphonic piece
2. An etude or a virtuosic work
Round II (Final Round — live performance)
Total duration: no more than 15 minutes
1. A large-scale form (e.g. first movement of a sonata, or complete 2–3 movements; or a set of variations)
2. A virtuosic piece
3. A work by a composer from the participant’s home country or an arrangement of a national folk song
Category II: Ages 13–15 (inclusive) Round I (Video Submission)
Total duration: no more than 15 minutes
1. A polyphonic work
2. An etude
Round II (Final Round — live performance)
Total duration: no more than 17 minutes
1. A large-scale form (e.g. first movement of a sonata, or complete 2–3 movements; or a set of variations)
2. A virtuosic piece
3. A work by a composer from the participant’s home country or an arrangement of a national folk song
Note:
In the third item of round II, each participant must present a work that reflects the musical heritage of their own country — either a composition by a national composer or a folk song arranged for performance
6.3. Discipline: String Instruments (Violin & Cello)
Category I: Ages 10–12 (inclusive) Round I (Video Submission)
Total duration: no more than 10 minutes
1. An etude or caprice
2. A cantilena-style piece
Round II (Final Round — live performance with piano accompaniment)
Total duration: no more than 15 minutes
1. A virtuosic extended work
2. A piece by a composer from the participant’s home country or an arrangement of a national folk song
Category II: Ages 13–15 (inclusive) Round I (Video Submission)
Total duration: no more than 15 minutes
1. A caprice
2. A virtuosic extended work (must be distinctly virtuosic in nature)
Round II (Final Round — live performance with piano accompaniment)
Total duration: no more than 17 minutes
1. A concerto (1st movement or 2nd and 3rd movements)
2. A piece by a composer from the participant’s home country or an arrangement of a national folk song
Note:
In the second item of round II, each participant must present a work that reflects the musical heritage of their own country — either a composition by a national composer or a folk song arranged for performance
7. Procedures for the Zarina Altynbayeva Youth Music Competition
7.1. All applications must be submitted using the official form available on the Competition website.
7.2. Applications, together with all required documents and video materials, must be submitted online no later than 23:59 (Astana time) on 25 September 2026.
7.3. After the application has been reviewed by the Organizing Committee, the participant will receive an electronic notification regarding the review results. Applications that meet all Competition requirements will be accepted for consideration. In the event of errors or missing documents, the participant will be notified and requested to make the necessary corrections;
7.4. Applications submitted after the deadline will not be accepted or considered by the Organizing Committee;
7.5. Applications that do not comply with the conditions of these Regulations, are incomplete, or lack the required documents or video recordings, will not be accepted;
7.6. Candidates are responsible for ensuring their application is submitted by the deadline. The Organizing Committee assumes no responsibility if the application is not received on time;
7.7. If a candidate experience technical difficulties during the application process, they must immediately inform the Organizing Committee by emailing zarina.altynbayeva.competition@gmail.com to ensure timely submission. To avoid technical issues, candidates are strongly advised to upload their videos at least 48 hours prior to the deadline;
7.8. Submission of an application confirms the candidate’s full acceptance of the Competition’s rules and conditions.
8. Required Documents for Application Submission:
8.1.To participate in Round I, the applicant must provide a link to a video recording of the competition programme uploaded exclusively to YouTube with the access setting “Unlisted”.
The video recording must consist of a single continuous video containing the complete competition programme submitted for Round I. Short pauses between pieces are permitted if necessary to prepare for the performance of the next work, provided that the recording is not stopped.
Editing, cutting, splicing, audio or video enhancement, or any other alteration of the recording is not permitted. The video must contain synchronized audio and video of the performer throughout the entire performance.
The title of the video must include the participant’s full name, category, and nomination. The description of the video must contain the programme being performed.
Links to multiple separate videos, playlists, cloud storage services (Google Drive, Dropbox, Yandex Disk, etc.), or any materials that do not constitute a single continuous recording of the competition programme will not be accepted for consideration.
8.2.A biography of the candidate (maximum 150 words) written in Kazakh, English, Turkish, or Russian, including participation in competitions, festivals, concerts, and musical projects.
8.3. A scanned copy or photograph (high resolution) of the candidate's birth certificate or passport.
8.4. A high-resolution artistic color photograph in digital format (close-up portrait, no selfies). Black-and-white or overly edited photos will not be accepted.
8.5. The competition programme submitted by the participant in the application form shall be considered final and may not be changed. Substitution of works, addition of new works, or removal of works from the submitted programme is not permitted. The order of performance of the declared works may be changed at the participant’s discretion.
8.6. All participants must submit copies of the sheet music for the works to be performed in Round II in electronic PDF format at the time of application.
8.7. Participants may perform with their own accompanist. If necessary, the Organizing Committee will provide an accompanist free of charge, upon prior agreement.
9. Review of Applications for the Zarina Altynbayeva Youth Music Competition
9.1. Applications will be reviewed by the Selection Committee specially established for this purpose. If necessary, the Competition may request additional information from candidates. Videos submitted after the official deadline will not be reviewed, and the candidates will not be admitted to the Competition.
9.2. The performance and Gala Concert programs will be reviewed by the Artistic Committee specially established for this purpose. The Committee reserves the right to make necessary adjustments to the program to ensure its compliance with the Competition’s rules and artistic standards. After the application deadline (no later than 11:59 PM, September 25, 2026), no changes to the submitted program will be permitted, except in cases where such changes are requested by the
Artistic Committee or the Competition’s management team.
9.3. Advancement to the Second Round. Once candidates' applications have been reviewed and accepted by the Organizing Committee, and their programs approved by the Selection and Artistic Committees, successful candidates will be notified of their admission to the Second Round.
10. General Regulations Regarding the Competition Program and Participant Performances
10.1. The performance order will be determined by an open public drawing of lots and will remain unchanged;
10.2. Each candidate will be allocated equal rehearsal time;
10.3. Candidates accepted into the Competition are required to participate in the Second Round unless prevented by illness or force majeure;
10.4. Candidates must treat each performance as a full-fledged recital, carefully curating their program accordingly. The jury will evaluate each performance individually;
10.5. All pieces must be performed from memory;
10.6. Candidates may include self-composed or self-arranged works in their programs;
10.7. Participants, laureates, and prize-winners selected by the jury are required to perform at the Gala Concert free of charge, with the repertoire chosen by the jury members;
10.8. The Organizing Committee reserves the right to broadcast and record all Competition events via television, radio, internet, and any digital media without requiring consent from participants and without paying any fees.
11. Functions and Eligibility of the Organizing Committee of the Zarina Altynbayeva Youth Music Competition
А) The Organizing Committee is authorized to:
11.1. In the event of significant circumstances that prevent the Competition from being conducted as provided for in these Regulations, introduce necessary amendments;
11.2. Remove a participant from any stage of the Competition if the participant and/or their legal representatives violate the terms and conditions set forth herein or disobey the organizers' requirements;
11.3. Refuse to engage in written or any other communications with participants, except as provided in these Regulations;
11.4. Request additional information and documents from participants when necessary, including those required by public authorities;
11.5. Notify candidates of the obligation not to engage in any malicious actions that could harm the reputation of the Zarina Altynbayeva Youth Music Competition and/or its sponsors and partners. If a candidate is involved in such a situation, the Organizing Committee reserves the right to take any
necessary action from the First Round until the conclusion of all Competition events. Its decision will be final. Candidates found liable must indemnify the Competition for any damages caused..
Б) The Organizing Committee is obligated to:
11.6. Timely notify participants who have passed into the Second (Final) Round
11.7. Comply with the present Regulations and ensure that all activities related to the Competition are conducted within the established deadlines;
11.8. Inform participants of any amendments to the Competition documentation, cancellation of the Competition, or removal of a participant;
11.9. Ensure the Competition is held in accordance with these Regulations. В) Rights and Obligations of Participants:
11.10. Participants have the right to receive information about the dates and terms of the Competition;
11.11. Participants are obligated to comply with the present Regulations and fulfill all actions required for their participation according to the established rules.
12. Financial Terms
12.1. Participation in the Zarina Altynbayeva Youth Music Competition is free of charge;
12.2. Transportation expenses related to travel to Almaty must be covered by the participants themselves or their sponsoring organizations;
12.3. During the Competition, the Organizing Committee provides a standard hotel room (with breakfast included) for each non-resident participant and one accompanying adult. The hotel will be selected by the Organizing Committee and is not subject to change;
12.4. Participants arriving in Almaty before the official arrival date indicated in the invitation are responsible for covering their accommodation expenses until the official date;
12.5. Hotel check-in is available from 14:00 on 30 October 2026. Hotel check-out must be completed by 12:00 on 3 November 2026.
12.6. The Organizing Committee does not provide any form of insurance coverage for participants, their accompanists, or their teachers;
12.7. The Organizing Committee does not provide participants with stage costumes or footwear.
13. Functions of the Jury of the Zarina Altynbayeva Youth Music Competition
13.1. Performances of the participants are evaluated by an international jury;
13.2. Chairperson of the Jury — Zarina Altynbayeva;
13.3. The Competition Jury reserves the right to:
▪ Not award all prize places;
▪ Not award the Grand Prix;
▪ Split monetary prizes among participants who share a prize place;
▪ Award special and encouragement prizes and diplomas.
13.4. The Jury reserves the right to interrupt a participant’s performance if the time limit is exceeded;
13.5. In the event of a tie, the Chair of the Jury has the casting vote;
13.6. The decision of the Jury is final and not subject to appeal.
14. Prizes and Awards
14.1. Grand Prix of the Competition — 800,000; (The Grand Prix is awarded to only one participant, regardless of category. The absolute winner and holder of the Grand Prix are determined by the members of the Jury.)
14.2. First Prize — 350,000 KZT;
14.3. Second Prize — 250,000 KZT;
14.4. Third Prize — 200,000 KZT;
14.5. Special Prize for the Best Performance of a Work by a Composer or Folk Music of Turkic Nations (one prize awarded in each discipline) — 300,000 KZT;
14.6. Prize places (I, II, III) are awarded in each age group for all nominations;
14.7. Titles of laureates (I, II, III degrees) are awarded to participants in each nomination and age group;
14.8. Participants who reach the Final but do not win prizes will receive Certificates of Participation;
14.9. Accompanists and teachers of all participants who reach the Final will receive Diplomas and incentive
14.10. The teacher of the Grand Prix winner will additionally receive a monetary prize of 200,000 KZT;
14.11. State and public organizations, commercial companies, entrepreneurs, creative unions, and charitable foundations may establish special prizes and awards for participants in coordination with the Organizing Committee.
15. Appeals
15.1. A participant or their legal representative has the right to submit an appeal only regarding the accuracy of the final score calculation.
15.2. Appeals do not allow for the reconsideration of the Jury’s subjective evaluations and do not lead to changes in their decisions, except in cases of technical errors in the calculation.
15.3. Appeals must be submitted in writing within 24 hours after the announcement of the results.
15.4. The appeal must include:
▪ Full name of the participant;
▪ Category;
▪ Reason for the appeal (indication of a possible technical error in the scoring).
15.5. The Organizing Committee will review the appeal within 48 hours of submission and inform the applicant of the outcome.
15.6. The decision made upon review of the appeal is final and binding.
Contact Details of the Organizing Committee:
• WhatsApp: +7 777 641 4000
• E-mail: zarina.altynbayeva.competition@gmail.com
• Instagram: @zarina.altynbayeva.competition
• Consultations regarding participation in the Competition are provided on working days from 10:00 to 17:00 Astana time (GMT+5).
For efficient processing of inquiries, WhatsApp messages are accepted in text format only. Voice messages, audio files, and video messages will not be reviewed or considered by the Organizing Committee.
These Regulations have been drafted, reviewed, and approved by the Organizing Committee of the VI International Academic Competition for Young Musicians – Zarina Altynbayeva Youth Music Competition (ZAYMC).
10 June 2026