Welcome to the
International TunyStones Composition Contest
Inspiring Kids to Compose Their Own Music!
The International TunyStones Composition Contest is a unique opportunity for young music learners to explore their creativity and develop their music-reading skills.
Unlike traditional music competitions, which often focus on advanced players, this contest encourages children to become composers—creating and performing their very own piece using the TunyStones Piano or TunyStones Guitar App. It is designed for all young learners, whether they are just starting their musical journey or already feel comfortable with their instrument.
The International TunyStones Composition Contest is organised by the Swiss MusicLab GmbH located in Basel, Switzerland.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
Participants will compose a short piece using the app’s Composition Mountain feature and perform it in a video recording. Then a panel of professional musicians will evaluate the recorded compositions. This contest is all about creativity, exploration, and musical expression, supporting children at the very beginning of their journey.
✨ A fun, creative challenge that builds both confidence and musical skills! ✨
This is a wonderful way to motivate young musicians to engage with music in a new and interactive way.
WHAT ARE THE TUNYSTONES APPS?
The TunyStones Piano and TunyStones Guitar Apps are innovative tools for teaching and learning music reading. Each app includes a composition feature, which participants will use for the contest.
More information about the apps:
Website: TunyStones Piano App
Tutorial Video: Watch here
HOW TO PARTICIPATE?
(1) Download either the TunyStones Piano or TunyStones Guitar App from the App Store or Google Play Store.
(2) Create your own composition in the Composition Mountain section. (For instructions on finding the Composition Mountain, please watch the full video tutorial).
(3) Record a video of your performance and upload it to YouTube. Ensure the video is not set to “private” so the jury can review it. The video should not exceed 4 minutes.
(4) Complete the application form and submit the symbolic entry fee of 20 Swiss Francs (CHF).
(5) Stay tuned for the results! The winners will be announced by April 10.
For detailed contest rules, please see below.
Apply here!
Contest Rules
1. Eligibility
The contest is open to young music learners of all nationalities who play either the piano or the guitar.
Participants must fall into one of the following age groups:
– Age Group 1: Born between January 1, 2018 – December 31, 2020
– Age Group 2: Born between January 1, 2016 – December 31, 2017
– Age Group 3: Born between January 1, 2013 – December 31, 2015
– Age Group 4: Born on or before December 31, 2012
Parental/Guardian Agreement:
Since participants are minors, the application must be submitted by a parent or legal guardian.
By submitting the application, the parent/guardian confirms their consent for their child’s participation and agrees to the contest rules, including the public sharing of videos for jury evaluation and promotional purposes.
2. Submission Format
The contest is based on online video submissions, so no travel is required.
3. Competition Timeline
Video Submission Deadline: April 31
Jury Evaluation & Results: Winners will be announced on our Instagram page (@TunyStones) on May 15.
4. Video Recording Guidelines
The camera must capture the tablet’s screen, most of the instrument (piano or guitar), and the participant.
The performance must be recorded in one continuous take.
The video must not exceed 4 minutes.
Upload the video to YouTube or a similar platform. Recommended settings: “Unlisted” or “Public”. (Do not set to “Private”, as this prevents the jury from viewing it.)
5. Evaluation Criteria
Compositions will be evaluated based on their unique character and aesthetic appeal in relation to the participant’s level.
Performance: The quality of execution might also influence the jury’s decision.
6. Prizes
The winners of the contest will receive a certificate.
There are up to 5 Special Prizes per group:
Lifetime access to TunyStones Piano or Guitar
One-year free access to the TunyStones Rhythm App
7. Video Visibility & Privacy
By participating, you grant Swiss MusicLab GmbH the right to use your videos, photos, or other materials for social media, website, and promotional purposes (e.g., YouTube, Instagram, Facebook).
The organisers reserve the right to edit and crop photos submitted for online publication.
The contest rules may be subject to changes, and any updates will be communicated to registered participants.
By registering, you agree to receive emails from Swiss MusicLab GmbH, including newsletters and event updates. (You may unsubscribe at any time.)
News & Events
Credits:
Project Leader/Inventor: Dr. Jan Gazdzicki
Design: Cindy Chuang, Adorabelle Tan
IT: Shadowmatic Labs
Research Project
at Hochschule für Musik FHNW
Grant: Bridge – Proof of Concept by
SNF/Innosuisse
Collaborations:
– Musikschule Basel
– Institute for Data Science FHNW
– School of Business FHNW
– Innosuisse Coaching
– ArtTech