Apply to Polstjärnepriset Course

Application

The course is aimed at young musicians in the field of classical music, aged approx. 14–20, from all the Nordic countries. All standard orchestral instruments, including percussion, are welcome to participate in the course.

Apply to Polstjärnepriset the Course 2026 here (change the language to English at the top of the form). Read this page before you fill in your application.

To participate in Polstjärnepriset, both the competition and the course, you must be present during both periods in November (30 October – 2 November 2025) and January (2-6 January 2026). If you can only attend one of the periods, you can apply to one of the YOMA courses in November or January, which take place in parallel with Polstjärnepriset. A link to the application to these courses can be found here soon.

Fees and costs

Participation in the course and competition is free of charge. Costs for travels, meals and accommodation are paid by the course participants. Accommodation in dormitory rooms including breakfast at a discounted price at one of the contracted hotels, Arena Hotell and Strand Hotell in Vänersborg, is booked through Polstjärnepriset. Meals (lunch and dinner) are also booked via us at a discounted price in the Vänerparken restaurant. Payment must be made before arrival.

Important dates

15 April 2025
The application opens.

28 August
Application submission deadline for the course.

3 September
Notification of participation is sent by email to the course applicants.

10 September
Deadline for confirmation of participation in the course.

1 October
Parts for the orchestral and chamber repertoire can be found at our login page.

30 October-2 November
Polstjärnepriset part 1. Mandatory attendance all days.

30 October
Arrival, check-in at Vänerparken 14.30-16.45. Scheduled activities from 17.00.

2 November
Departure, no earlier than 17.15 from Vänersborg.

2-6 January 2026
Polstjärnepriset part 2. Mandatory attendance all days.

2 January
Arrival for the course participants, check-in from 14.30. Scheduled activities from 17.00.

3-4 January
Teaching and concerts in Vänersborg.

5 January
Concert 3.00 pm at Gothenburg Concert Hall with the Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra. All competitors and course participants participate in the concert.

6 January
Concert at another location.

The course offers you

individual lessons and ensemble lessons from prominent instructors
to play, develop and perform together with ca 80 of the Nordic region’s foremost young musicians, including the competitors
the chance to participate in the Polstjärnepriset master classes, visit the competition and get insight in the way of working of the competition
the opportunity to perform for a jury “outside the competition”, to receive important feedback and experience
rehearsals in one or several of the Polstjärnepriset ensembles and orchestras
to participate in the Polstjärnepriset concerts, in various ensembles and orchestras
to play together with Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra during the day of the finals