Walter Furrer Prize 2026
Competition for young singers of all nationalities
The Walter Furrer Förderverein is awarding a prize for singers dedicated to the vocal works of Walter Furrer (1902–1978)
Competition
for young singers of all nationalities
The Walter Furrer Förderverein is awarding a prize for singers dedicated to the vocal works of Walter Furrer (1902–1978)
Walter Furrer Prize 2026
Following the inaugural piano edition in 2025, the Walter Furrer Prize 2026 turns to the rediscovery of his vocal works. As a German-born Swiss composer who studied in Paris with Nadia Boulanger, Furrer combined cultivated European traditions with his own artistic voice. His songs, rarely performed until now, open a new chapter in Swiss vocal repertoire and call on young singers to bring them to life.
Apply now for the Walter Furrer Prize 2026!
Walter Furrer Prize 2026
Following the inaugural piano edition in 2025, the Walter Furrer Prize 2026 turns to the rediscovery of his vocal works. As a German-born Swiss composer who studied in Paris with Nadia Boulanger, Furrer combined cultivated European traditions with his own artistic voice. His songs, rarely performed until now, open a new chapter in Swiss vocal repertoire and call on young singers to bring them to life.
Apply now for the Walter Furrer Prize 2026!
Need-do-Know
Who can apply?
Singers of all nationalities worldwide who are not older than 32 on the date of the competition (key date: 26 September 2026).
What we offer
The competition offers a total prize fund of CHF 20 000 and concert promotion in Switzerland, including performances by the winners organized by Konzertfonds Wohlen and other partners.
Auditions
The competition will take place in three rounds: The video preselection (application until 10 July 2026) and two live rounds at Kanti Wohlen AG in Switzerland (23–26 September 2026).
Repertoire
2 songs recorded for the preselection round and 10 to be performed in the live rounds, featuring works by Walter Furrer. See conditions for details.
Costs
Participants are responsible for their own travel and accommodation costs for the live rounds in Wohlen AG. The application fee of CHF 50 must be paid by bank transfer before the application deadline. Piano accompaniment will be provided; however, we encourage participants to perform with their own pianist.
Need-do-Know
Who can apply?
Singers of all nationalities worldwide who are not older than 32 on the date of the competition (key date: 26 September 2026).
What we offer
The competition offers a total prize fund of CHF 20000 and concert promotion in Switzerland, including performances by the winners organized by Konzertfonds Wohlen and other partners.
Auditions
The competition will take place in three rounds: The video preselection (application until 10 July 2026) and two live rounds at Kanti Wohlen AG in Switzerland (23–26 September 2026).
Winners concerts
Results will be announced on 7 November 2025. The winner’s concerts in Switzerland will take place from 16 to 18 January 2026.
Costs
Participants are responsible for their own travel and accommodation costs for the live rounds in Wohlen AG. The application fee of CHF 50 must be paid by bank transfer before the application deadline. Piano accompaniment will be provided; however, we encourage participants to perform with their own pianist.
