Often hailed as “The Olympics of the Violin,” the Menuhin Competition Richmond 2021 took place virtually this year due to the pandemic, drawing more than 300,000 online views.

Throughout the competition dozens of the best young violinists in the world compete for top awards in performances ranging from solo recitals to concerts with chamber groups and full orchestra. In addition, the Sphinx Virtuosi ensemble — made up exclusively of 18 of the top young Black and Latino classical musicians — participated in a virtual performance.

University of Richmond President Ronald A. Crutcher was instrumental in bringing the competition to the United States for only the second time since the event began in 1983. The previous competition — they’re held every two years — was in 2018 in Geneva, Switzerland. Performances were initially planned throughout venues in Richmond, including on campus at the Modlin Center.

“Music has been an integral part of my life since I was a young boy,” said Crutcher, a distinguished classical musician. “Music taught me about listening, collaboration and other skills critical for success in life. I’m delighted that the University of Richmond is part of this because the competition embodies much of what is important to our university. The competition provides these young people with opportunity to compete, succeed and see the world.”

In addition to the competition rounds and performances, activities include virtual masterclasses; meetings between competitors, guest artists, and jurors; panel discussions; and engagement programs. Students in grades K-12 in the Richmond area had the opportunity to “Adopt a Performer,” which allowed students to interact with competitors, who visit the classroom virtually to talk with students and present short performances. The Richmond Symphony was also able to hold an in-person Menuhin celebration concert at the Dominion Energy Center during the competition.

This competition awarded 18-year-old Spanish violinist María Dueñas  the Senior 1st Prize, and 15-year-old Keila Wakao, from the Boston area, won the Junior 1st Prize.

Watch live and recorded events at the Menuhin Competition YouTube channel.