The 2026 Competition

The Eastbourne International Singing Competition is  open to classical singers and piano accompanists aged between 19 and 32 on May 28th, 2026.

Applicants who are accepted into the First Round will perform a varied programme of 10-12 minutes, accompanied on the Steinway grand piano. Three staff pianists will be available and competitors may also bring their own accompanist.

Both First, Semi-Final and Final Rounds will be held in front of a live audience and a panel of 4 adjudicators.  Approximately 50 applicants will be chosen to compete in the First Round which will be held on Thursday May 28th and Friday May 29th, 2026.

16 competitors will move forward to the semi finals taking pace on Saturday 30th May. Six finalists will be chosen to compete in the final on Sunday 31st May, in the Compton Room of The Grand Hotel

Audience booking is now open.

A café will be available in the Birley Centre, serving hot and cold drinks, wine, cream teas and sweet and savoury snacks.