Phu Quoc to host Vietnam’s first international flute festival

The festival is a non-profit initiative that aims to connect the global flute community, support young musicians, and promote cultural exchange through music. Organizers said selecting Phu Quoc as the inaugural host reflects the island’s growing role as a venue for international arts and cultural events alongside its tourism industry.

This year’s festival will feature an international panel of performers and educators, including Grammy winner and VIFF founder Erin Bouriakov and Sebastian Jacot.

The judging panel includes musicians and educators Viviana Guzman, Tiong Eng Goh, Meixiang Park, Hiromitsu Abe, Rebecca Viora, and Naoko Ishibashi.

Sebastian Jacot, a Grammy-winning flutist. Photo courtesy of The Flute View.

Over six days, Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay on Kem Beach will host competitions in three categories: Junior Division, MH Division, and Young Artist Division.

Winners will be announced at the closing gala concert. The Young Artist Division champion will receive a US$1,000 prize, along with several special awards, including an Audience Award and prizes sponsored by flute maker Flutes and Flutists.

In addition to the competition, the festival program includes masterclasses at different skill levels, chamber performances, concerts, instrument exhibitions, and the gala performance “When the Wind Sings.” Organizers said these activities are intended to encourage professional exchange and support the development of flute performance in Vietnam.

The festival also reflects broader efforts to diversify Phu Quoc’s tourism offering through international cultural, artistic, and entertainment events.

Kiss Bridge has become one of Phu Quocs signature landmarks. Photo courtesy of Sun Group

Kiss Bridge has become one of Phu Quoc’s signature landmarks. Photo courtesy of Sun Group

In recent years, southern Phu Quoc has introduced a range of attractions and event venues, including Kiss Bridge, Kiss of the Sea, Symphony of the Sea, Sun Signature Gallery, the Campanile Clock Tower, and Apollo Square. Together with year-round festivals and performances, these developments have expanded the island’s tourism offerings beyond traditional beach activities.

Against this backdrop, organizers said hosting the inaugural Vietnam International Flute Festival in Phu Quoc reflects the island’s growing profile as a destination for international arts and cultural events.

Sun PhuQuoc Airways is partnering with VIFF 2026 to facilitate travel for participating artists, students, and visitors through its flight network serving Phu Quoc.

According to a representative of the airline, the partnership aims to support international participation while introducing more visitors to the island through cultural events.

“A destination truly comes alive when nature, culture, and people come together to create memorable experiences. We are pleased to support the Vietnam International Flute Festival 2026 and welcome artists and visitors from around the world to discover Phu Quoc,” the representative said.

A Sun PhuQuoc Airways plane on the sky. Photo courtesy of Sun Group

A Sun PhuQuoc Airways’ plane on the sky. Photo courtesy of Sun Group

Sun PhuQuoc Airways is partnering with VIFF 2026 to facilitate travel for participating artists, students, and visitors through its ever-expanding route network serving Phu Quoc as an international destination for culture, arts, and entertainment, not just leisure travel.

“A destination truly comes alive when nature, culture, and people come together to create memorable experiences. We are pleased to support the Vietnam International Flute Festival 2026 and welcome artists and visitors from around the world to discover Phu Quoc,” the representative said.

Comments are closed.