On Saturday 26 September, the 30th Saxon ‘Werner Richter’ Competition for Accordion and Bandoneon took place at the Chemnitz Municipal Music School, Gerichtsstraße 1. In public competition rounds, which were open to interested members of the public, the prize-winners were selected in various categories.
The prizes were awarded during the closing concert in the concert hall of the Chemnitz Municipal Music School.
Fifteen-year-old Tiago David Frank Domingues from Leipzig received the highest score of the entire competition for his performance and was thus awarded the ‘Werner Richter Trophy’. This trophy is donated by Thea Richter and includes prize money of 100 euros. The young musician, who competed in the Accordion Solo IV category, impressed the expert jury with his confident playing and an outstanding sense of musical interpretation.
The expert jury, comprising members of the German Accordion Teachers’ Association and recognised experts, assessed the performances in the Accordion Solo I to V categories as well as in the ensemble categories Chamber Music I to III. First, second and third prizes were awarded in each category.
The individual placings can be found at:
30th Saxon “Werner Richter” Competition – Results
All participants received a certificate stating the distinction achieved and the score obtained.
The closing concert also featured a performance by the duo Andrej Kos (accordion) and Filip Brezovšek (clarinet). In addition, Tilo Richter, Werner Richter’s son, was present throughout the competition day.
Looking ahead
The 31st Saxon “Werner Richter” Competition will take place on 2 October 2027 at the Chemnitz Municipal Music School. It is aimed at amateur musicians of all ages from Saxony, who will have the chance to showcase their musical skills in the categories of accordion solo, bandoneon solo and chamber music before a panel of expert judges, gain stage experience and exchange ideas with other music enthusiasts.
Background
In 1950, Werner Richter was one of the founding teachers at the Chemnitz Music School and headed the accordion department for many decades. As an educator, musician and composer, he had a lasting influence on life at the music school. He wrote numerous works for his pupils and the ensembles he mentored, all tailored to the musicians’ respective abilities. Today’s competition carries on this musical legacy and combines it with the promotion of the next generation.
Further information: Saxon ‘Werner Richter’ Competition
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