frequently asked questions

How can we prepare our application?

Not sure if your ensemble is eligible, or don’t really know where to start with preparing your application?

Download the flyer with extra information and tips.
Download the questions related to the application.

Is an ensemble programming in a varied line-up also eligible? So e.g. a permanent sextet programming both quartet, quintet and sextet?

A changing line-up is certainly possible. The 2025 Supernova laureate -- Ensemble Satellite -- is a fine example. They perform as a quartet and as a trio. As long as one respects the maximum number of musicians (6) and always uses the same line-up within the competition, there is no problem.

Can you take part as a piano duo, playing on two pianos?

Within the prescribed ensemble size of a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 6 members, you are free to choose a line-up and instrumentation that best aligns with your ensemble’s artistic profile. For the (semi-)final and the laureates’ concert during Klarafestival, it is possible to provide two pianos. Please bear in mind that not all participating cultural partners have two pianos available, or have the budget to hire two pianos, which may pose a challenge for the organisers during an eventual subsequent concert tour.

We want to present a project in which a video artist is involved. Is this permitted?

Yes, this is definitely permitted. If the presence of the video artist is required for the projection during the concert, please mention this person in your application. This person must also be available on all the scheduled competition dates (the semi-final, final and laureates’ concert).

Some members of our ensemble do not live in Belgium. Are we still eligible to participate?

If more than half of the members of your ensemble live in Belgium or have Belgian nationality, you may participate.

Are we allowed to repeat (a part of) the works from the (semi-)final programme in the laureates' concert?

You may repeat (a part of) the (semi-)final programme for the laureates' concert, but this is not obligatory.

Is it necessary to include a complete work in each of the presentation videos?

No, for the presentation videos you may also present a shorter excerpt or a montage of several shorter passages from a work. What matters is that both videos are of good quality and clearly convey your ensemble’s artistic vision and technical ability.

Is it necessary to record a complete work for both presentation videos?

No, for the presentation videos you can present a shorter clip, or a montage of several short clips from a work. This could be a clip from a live concert recording, or a tailor-made video. You are also free to choose the length of the videos (bear in mind that the jury will not have time to view an hour-long video in full). Above all, it is important that both video recordings are of a high quality and that the repertoire accurately reflects the artistic story and technical abilities of your ensemble.

May we provide information on stage about the works being performed?

If this aligns with the substantive narrative of your project, we encourage this form of communication with the audience. But this is not obligatory: it should feel comfortable and come across naturally.