Kodály String Duo Composition Competition Applications Open [APPLY]

Together, brothers violinist Sebastian Leczky and cellist Marcel Leczky form the Kodály String Duo Vienna (KSDV). They recently launched their call for scores for string duo titled “KSDV-contemporary.”

“The main inspiration behind this competition is that there is little repertoire for the string duo formation,” the brothers told The Violin Channel. “But the possibilities in music for a violin and cello together are huge — some great composers of the past, like Ravel and Kodály recognized this and wrote for this formation.”

As part of KSDV’s competition to increase the string duo repertoire, they are encouraging composers to submit works that express their unique selves. With no set requirements, composers for the project have freedom in what they wish to write. 

This call for scores is designed as an ongoing program, open year-round to composers of any age, nationality, and experience. Composers are encouraged to take their time and not feel any competitive pressure. 

“There is no deadline,” they said. “We take this special mission as a life-long project to expand the string duo repertoire, and to popularize the violin-cello arrangement.”

“Unfortunately, composers from the past aren’t able to write for this formation anymore, so, for anyone taking part in this special mission will also be taking part in a historical way in this project — to raise the sting duo repertoire, within which will hopefully see many more string duos written and published, to soon be as popular as the string quartet formation,” the brothers told us. “We are very thankful for everybody participating! Let‘s change the world of the string duo!” 

To apply, click here, or email [email protected].

ZOLTÁN KODÁLY | DUO, OP. 7, MOVEMENT I | KODÁLY STRING DUO | 2022

Sebastian is the winner of several international violin and chamber music competitions, including the International Vasa Prihoda Violin Competition. Having made his orchestra debut at age 10, he is currently studying with Ida Bieler at the University of Music and Performing Arts Graz (KUG). His other mentors include Arkadij Winokurow and Boris Kuschnir.

The winner of competitions including the Gustav Mahler Prize Competition, and London’s Whitgift Competition, Marcel Leczky is now studying with Kerstin Feltz at KUG. His other mentors have included Wolfgang Emanuel Schmidt, Johannes Moser, VC Artist Zlatomir Fung, and those at the Kronberg Academy.