BBC Radio Scotland Young Classical Musician of the Year 2026

BBC Radio Scotland is delighted to announce the launch of our award for young classical musicians for its third year. This award is designed to highlight the wealth of talent in Scotland’s vibrant classical scene.

How to Apply

Fill in the application form, sending us a 10 min audio recording of your playing and some information about your musical experience so far. Entrants must be aged between 18 and 24 inclusive on Monday 17 November 2025.

Closing Date : Noon on Mon 5 January 2026

Semi-Final

Royal Conservatoire of Scotland on the 22 March 2026. A panel will select a maximum of 9 players to perform in the semi-finals at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, to an audience of friends and family.

Grand Final

City Halls, Glasgow on the 30 May 2026. Three finalists will perform with the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra in front of a live audience and panel of judges.The final will be broadcast on BBC Radio Scotland.

Prizes

The winner will be awarded the title of ‘BBC Radio Scotland Young Classical Musician 2026’ and a performance on BBC Radio Scotland.

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Three talented finalists joined the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra and conductor Andrew Gourlay to perform in this special event on June 14th 2025. Broadcast live on BBC Radio Scotland.

• Emma Baird - violin
• Ziheng Huang – alto saxophone
• Sofia Ros - Bandoneón

The 2025 award was won by Sofia Ros, full details are here.