Dear Musicians, Educators, and Colleagues,
Greetings from Bella Music Foundation!
We are pleased to announce that applications are now open for the 2026 BMF International Music Competition for Blind and Visually Impaired Musicians.
Application Deadline: October 1, 2026
We would be very grateful for your help in sharing this opportunity widely with blind and visually impaired student musicians, young artists, music teachers, schools, universities, and organizations in your network. We hope to reach as many talented blind and visually impaired musicians as possible and encourage them to take advantage of this international performance and career-development opportunity.
The competition welcomes blind and visually impaired classical and jazz musicians from around the world and provides opportunities to showcase their artistry, receive recognition, and advance their musical careers.
Competition Highlights
USD 10,000 in Total Cash Awards
Carnegie Hall Performance Opportunity – All First Prize winners will be invited to perform at the Finale Concert of the 2026 BMF National Concert Tour Series on December 6, 2026, at Carnegie Hall – Weill Recital Hall in New York City
Additional First Prize Awards Sponsored by Dancing Dots – Each First Prize winner will receive either the GoodFeel suite (valued at $1,895) or Lime Lighter Liberty (valued at $1,849), depending on the winner’s individual needs
Eligibility
Open to blind and visually impaired instrumentalists, vocalists, and composers of any nationality.
Classical: Ages 10–30
Jazz: Ages 15–30
Audition Process
Preliminary Round: Recorded Video Audition
Application & Submission Deadline: October 1, 2026
Final Round: Live Zoom Audition, October 15–19, 2026
For complete competition regulations and application information, please visit our website: https://www.bellamf.org/bmf-intl-music-competition/2026-bella-music-foundation-international-music-competition-for-the-blind-and-visually-impaired-musicians
Please help us spread the word and encourage eligible blind and visually impaired students and musicians to apply before the October 1 deadline. Your support in sharing this opportunity with your community would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you for helping us reach and support talented blind and visually impaired musicians around the world.