The 20th edition of the George Enescu International Competition, scheduled from 23 August to 19 September 2026 in Bucharest, will feature nearly a month of free public events under the theme "In Search of Excellence." The programme will take place at the Radio Hall, the Romanian Athenaeum, and the National University of Music Bucharest, bringing together renowned artists and young musicians. Free events begin on 24 August with an international Masterclass led by artistic director maestro Cristian Macelaru, running until 28 August at the Radio Hall, featuring six selected young conductors and the Romanian Youth Orchestra. The public can attend rehearsals and working sessions, observing how musical interpretations are developed and the conductor-ensemble relationship.