The jubilee 20th International String Competition “Rudolf Matz” was held in Čakovec from April 22. to 24., 2025. — a unique musical event that brings together violinists, violists, cellists, and double bassists from around the world. This biennial competition, organized by the Miroslav Magdalenić School of the Arts in Čakovec, stands out for its distinctive approach: participants are not divided by age, but by the number of years they have studied their instrument. This format places emphasis on musicality, artistic maturity, and personal expression.

This year’s competition was opened by last year’s absolute winner, Ana Labazan Brajša, accompanied by pianist Ana Granik. The grand finale featured a concert by the laureates and the announcement of the overall winner – violinist Pavle Franković. His powerful performance of Miroslav Miletić’s Intermezzo earned him the City of Čakovec Music Award, which includes an invitation to perform at the opening of the next edition of the competition.

In addition to outstanding musical performances, participants took home a symbolic connection to the local culture – a book about the Zrinski family and Čakovec’s Old Town. In this way, the competition beautifully intertwined music and history, offering a well-rounded artistic experience.

The school’s principal, Senka Bašek-Šamec, jury president Professor Anđelko Krpan, and Mayor Ljerka Cividini all agreed that the competition’s primary goal — fostering the artistic growth of young musicians — was once again fully achieved this year.

As in previous editions, the main music sponsors of the competition were EURO-UNIT and Yamaha, long-time supporters of music education and the development of young talent. Their commitment to initiatives like this continues to enrich both the Croatian and international music scenes. The next chapter of this musical story will be written in Čakovec in two years — with new young virtuosos and the same enduring passion for music.