We are delighted to announce that clarinet player Jonathan Leibovitz has been selected to join the family of international artists currently managed by YCAT. 

In 2021 Jonathan Leibovitz won 1st Prize in the Crusell Clarinet Competition.  A top prize winner at major competitions in Israel and Europe, he is currently completing his studies at the Music Academy in Basel with François Benda.   Solo highlights include appearances with the Israel Philharmonic, Israel Chamber, Haifa Symphonic, Lapland Chamber and Kuopio Symphony Orchestras.  He is an avid chamber musician collaborating with colleagues in a diverse range of repertoire.

The Final Auditions took place on 19 May at Wigmore Hall where all eight Finalists performed live across the day.  

Photo: Kaupo Kikkas

The members of the Jury for the Final Auditions were Angela Dixon (Chief Executive, Saffron Hall), Gaetan le Divelec (former Director, Askonas Holt), Stephen McHolm (Director, Verbier Academy), Angela Sulivan (Director, Sulivan Sweetland Artist Management), Roger Wright (Chief Executive, Britten Pears Arts), Tanya Bannister (President, Concert Artists Guild, NY) and Alasdair Tait (Chief Executive and Artistic Director, YCAT).

The YCAT International Auditions are not a competition: there are no rankings, and any number of winners on a wide range of instruments and voice can be selected, competing against a standard of excellence, not each other.  

Alasdair Tait (Chief Executive & Artistic Director) comments:

“After three years of navigating online, remote selection and support of young artists, it has been so inspiring to return to live auditions. The level and commitment of artists applying for YCAT’s support this year from around Europe has been extraordinary, and we are thrilled that we yet again presented eight exciting finalists in the magnificent Wigmore Hall. ” 

In addition, YCAT and Concert Artists Guild in the USA will share selected artists for representation, as part of their partnership launched in 2019. These artists will be announced on 27 May, after the Concert Artists Guild auditions have taken place in New York.

All newly selected artists will receive unparalleled support, including a dedicated artist management team, extensive performing opportunities both nationally and internationally, debuts at the world's most prestigious venues, professional publicity materials as well as marketing and digital support.