The next round of auditions is likely to be held in MANCHESTER and LONDON during January or February 2027. Application forms and reference forms will be available in the autumn of 2026. Applications are invited from solo pianists, instrumental duos and small chamber ensembles of outstanding ability to audition for Kirckman Concerts. We aim to offer at least one recital to each artist or group at a major London venue, as well as concerts at major UK festivals and music clubs. However, in the light of ever-increasing demand for concert venues, we also invite successful applicants to come forward with their own imaginative projects for which the Society may be able to provide funds. These projects must be detailed and carefully costed, and we emphasise that the Society we will only consider ideas from applicants already selected at audition on account of their outstanding performing ability. There is no recital fee for our London own-promotions (though the Society contributes £100 per artist towards out of pocket expenses); collaborations with festivals and music clubs are fee-paying.
Those eligible to apply
Only those who have permission to live and perform in the UK for at least three years may apply.
We consider applications from solo pianists, instrumental duos and small ensembles. At present we regret that we cannot offer auditions to singers.
Age limit
- Solo pianists and Duos: the age limit is 30 by the time of any recital offered. Any recital is likely to take place during the season following the audition - following a successful audition in January/February 2027, a recital date offered would generally be during the 2026/27 season. A date is offered in accordance with each artist's availability.
- Ensembles of 3 or more: we will accept an average age of 30 by the time of any recital offered.
Membership of duos / small ensembles
Please note that we expect the membership of any duos and small ensembles which are successful at audition to be the same for any subsequent recital offered.
The audition
Auditionees are requested to present a 15-minute programme, including a contrast of styles and periods.
Since to perform complete works would often exceed the time allowed, individual movements can be performed.
Candidates are requested to time their audition pieces carefully, since time is very limited and auditions which over-run are unfair on later candidates.
Auditionees do not need to notify us about their audition programme beforehand
A warm-up room is available 20 minutes before the audition.