Calling All Young Classical Musicians: SweetWater’s Next Wave Is Back!
Classically trained musicians between the ages of 15 and 25 are invited to apply to the SweetWater Music Festival's 'Young Artist Next Wave Program' before June 20, 2026.
SUBMITTED
Do you know a classically trained musician between the ages of 15 and 25? We’d be grateful if you could share this invitation with your students, colleagues, and music-loving friends.
SweetWater Music Festival is now accepting applications for our Young Artist Next Wave Program for 2026.
What is the Next Wave Program?
Next Wave is a weekend-long intensive training and performance opportunity for four emerging musicians (ages 15–25) selected to attend and perform during the final weekend of the 2026 SweetWater Music Festival. Participants perform in a public masterclass, receive mentorship, and experience the festival from behind the scenes as young colleagues.
Full immersion behind the scenes at SweetWater Music Festival 2026 (Owen Sound/Meaford/Thornbury)
Free tickets to all SweetWater mainstage concerts, plus access to rehearsals and select festival events
Shared meals and networking opportunities with SweetWater’s 2026 festival artists and patrons
A private lesson with one of the internationally renowned 2026 Festival Artists (to be announced in May)
Participation in a public masterclass
A personalized virtual mentorship session with Artistic Director Edwin Huizinga prior to the festival
Host family accommodation for the festival weekend
A $150 honorarium for each selected musician.
You can get a feel for the program by checking out our Next Wave video:
Who Can Apply?
We’re inviting applications from:
Musicians aged 15–25
Soloists or chamber groups (up to 4 players) performing classical repertoire at approximately RCM Grade 8 level or higher
Applicants who are available Friday evening, September 18 to Sunday late afternoon, September 20, 2026.
How to Apply (No Fee)
Complete the online application form: https://forms.gle/kxTCatcxKR8e2UAh6
Application deadline: June 20, 2026
Audition Requirements
One unedited video (maximum 12 minutes), recorded within the last 12 months, showcasing your playing; this can be one piece, one movement, or a short set of pieces under 12 minutes
Video shared as a private/unlisted YouTube link
One-page PDF recommendation letter from a teacher or instructor
Key Dates
June 20 – Application deadline
July 1 – Stage 1 selected musicians notified
August 1 – Final Next Wave artists selected for SweetWater 2026
August – Online mentorship session with Artistic Director Edwin Huizinga
September 18–20, 2026 – SweetWater Festival weekend (Owen Sound & Meaford)
September 20 at noon – Next Wave Showcase Performance
Thank you for helping us spread the word—your support helps the next generation of artists find their place onstage. We can’t wait to hear from this year’s applicants!
Submitted by SweetWater Music Festival
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