Nestled within the vibrant cultural tapestry of San Miguel, Pro Musica’s Young Classical Musician Competition radiates as a beacon of promise for emerging talents in the classical music sphere. Building on our first competition in 2022, this bi-annual event exemplifies a commitment to nurturing and honoring the rich musical heritage of Mexico and it musicians.The competition serves as a gateway for Mexican nationals aged 16-25 who are dedicated to honing their craft in classical music, but lack the means and the opportunities to do so. Our three distinguished judges have now completed the meticulous selection process by video auditions and narrowed the field down to 15 very talented semi finalists.

The competitors, playing a wide variety of orchestral instruments, including piano, showcased their talents in 20 minute performance videos with three pieces or movements of classical music, each of a distinct style and epoch. The judges, luminaries in their own right, scrutinized applicants not only for their playing skills, but also for their potential to become ambassadors of classical music in Mexico. The semi-finalists, a select few among a pool of exceptional talent, now advance to the live semi-finals and finals in San Miguel in February, 2024. Here they will both play before a live audience, and also present detailed Career Development Plans, outlining their ambitions and intentions within the classical music sphere, and be interviewed by the Judges.

The competition will award $400,000 pesos in prizes, a very substantial sum, particularly in Mexico, from Encouragement Awards for all semi-finalists, to the prestigious Grand Prize, each segment of the prize pool being strategically designed to empower winners’ aspirations. The winners’ stories from the previous competition serve as an inspiring testament to the profound impact of these awards. Past recipients utilized these funds for crucial elements in their musical journey, from tuition fees at prestigious institutions to acquiring instruments that serve as extensions of their artistic expression.

Here is what one of our 2022 prize winners, cellist Isaac Reynaga, wrote to us:

“Pro Music supported me in the purchase of a new cello bow (US$4,000), this bow has opened many new paths for me and has helped me improve technical and musical things. A bow for a bowed string instrument is like  an extension of your body; as many teachers say, it is better to acquire a good bow than a good instrument since without it we could not do countless things with which a good bow we are capable of achieving. Thanks to Promusica I was able to be reborn as a musician, discover many landscapes and also have the opportunity to meet and learn from world-class artists, taking masterclasses, etc.

Currently I’m beginning my masters degree studies in Music Performance at New Mexico State University, also throughout the year 2023 thanks to the support I was able to participate in international competitions and lessons, I was able to take classes with one the most prominent musicians Alfred Brendel In Italy, my goal is to continue preparing to transmit the message that all your dreams can be achieved if you put a lot of effort and perseverance. I am infinitely grateful to the director of Pro Música Michael Pearl for all the trust and support they have given me throughout this year.”

It’s stories like this that show us that what we are doing transcends just being a musical competition; it’s an investment in our future cultural heritage. By supporting this endeavor you have an opportunity to become key contributors to the health of classical music in Mexico. Donating to the prize fund isn’t just a financial gesture; it’s a commitment to nurturing the next generation of musical prodigies, ensuring that classical music continues to be enjoyed by coming generations.

The prize fund of $400,000 pesos is contributed solely by our Patron Members and other enlightened individuals. The success of the competition and the transformative journey it brings to the competitors relies on the collective support of passionate individuals such as yourselves. I ask you to dig deep into your pockets and make a contribution now, knowing that it will foster dreams, shape destinies, and mold these budding talents into the maestros of the future.  See the information below for the list of prizes you can contribute to, and the benefits we offer in return. Your donation, of whatever size, will stand as a testament to the collective power of community support in nurturing artistic excellence. Embracing this opportunity to contribute is an investment in the cultural wealth of Mexico, ensuring that its musical heritage flourishes for generations to come. Click on the link below to donate to the prize fund, or email us pledging support and we will contact you with other options for payment, including US tax deductibility