James Stroud

Classical Guitar Competition

2026

presented by the

Cleveland International Classical Guitar Festival®

hosted at the

Cleveland Institute of Music

2026 Stroud Competition Entry Form

We will accept applications to the Seventh annual James Stroud Classical Guitar Competition from January 1, 2026, to 11:00pm PST, February 15, 2026.

All 2026 Stroud Competition applicants must submit their completed application, $75.00 non-refundable entrance fee, and two Preliminary Round YouTube video links on this web page's Entry Form below. Please read the Official 2025 Stroud Competition RULES for complete applicant entry requirements.

We encourage all applicants to submit their completed Entry Form, Two YouTube Video Links, and Entry Fee well before the entry deadline in case of any technical difficulty.

We will announce the 2026 Stroud Competition Semi-Finalists on this website's Announcements' page by Friday, March 6, 2026. The decisions of the judges will be final.


 APPLICANTS AND THEIR INSTRUCTORS PLEASE NOTE: We seek classical guitar students who demonstrate:

1. Informed musicality, 
2. Artistic insight,
3. Creativity, 
4. Enlightened musical phrasing, articulation, rhythmic awareness, and use of timbre,
5. Technical refinement,
6. Stage presence and poise.


2026 FINAL ROUND PRIZES:

1st Place: $10,000.00
2nd Place:  $5,000.00
3rd Place:   $2,500.00
4th Place:   $1,250.00

Please direct all questions or support requests to: stroudcompetition@gmail.com.

Videos of your work
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By submitting your application you and your designated guardian confirm that you have both read, understand, and agree to abide by the Official 2026 James Stroud Classical Guitar Competition Requirements and Rules.

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