World-class violinists taking part in international competition in Montreal

This week in Montreal, it's a competition of the best and brightest. They all play violin and they've come from around the world to make music.

The best young violinists from around the world are spending a week in Montreal to take part in the Concours Musical International de Montréal (CMIM), which showcases the rising stars of classical music.

Onstage at Bourgie Hall on Tuesday, 24 of the best young violinists, aged 17 to 31, are all playing together.

They’ve travelled from 17 different countries to compete in one of the most prestigious competitions in the world.

“We had applications from 250 violinists from 37 countries,” said Artistic Director Shira Gilbert. “We had an online jury that selected the 24.”

One of those selected is Lorenz Karl from Vienna, Aut., who plays a very old and rare violin.

“It’s quite a sensation because the wood, the back of the violin, consists of wood from New Zealand,” Karl said. “It’s called Kauri. Kauri wood, their national wood, and this one is supposed to be 30,000 to 50,000 years old.”

Another very promising talent is from South Korea.

Hyun Jae Lim stopped playing after a car accident in 2020 and is now back to the international stage after a four-year recovery.

“I actually had given up the violin because I never thought I could play again,” she said. “But then I think time also helped me, and a lot of encouragement from friends and mentors.”

The competition is brisk.

From May 27 to June 4, each violinist will be asked to play a 30-minute recital.

After that, 10 are selected for longer programs.

“We get to meet them all and then see them launch into the world and pursue their careers,” said Gilbert.

Prizes and grants worth more than $150,000 are available.

All the same, Justin Saulnier from Orleans, Ont. says he isn’t nervous.

“The competition is very individual,” he said. “I think everyone agrees and knows that it’s all about the preparation, and then the prize is just the cherry on top.”

During the grand finale, artists will have the opportunity to join the Montreal Symphony Orchestra onstage.

The public is invited to watch and listen to the performances at Bourgie Hall, at 1339 Sherbrooke St. Ouest, next to the Museum of Fine Arts.

The competition ends with one winner declared on June 4.