Phu Quoc to host Vietnam’s first international flute festival

The nonprofit festival aims to connect the global flute community, nurture young talent, and promote cultural values through the art of the flute.

Held under the theme 'Rise with the Pearl Island – Melody in the Sky,' VIFF 2026 has chosen Phu Quoc as its inaugural host destination in Vietnam, bringing together flutists, music educators, and young musicians from around the world on the country's largest island, often referred to as the ‘pearl island.’

This year's festival will feature several prominent figures in the global flute community, including Grammy Award-winning flutist and VIFF founder Erin Bouriakov, as well as Sebastian Jacot, winner of multiple prestigious international flute competitions and one of the world's leading flutists.

The judging panel will also include internationally renowned musicians and music educators Viviana Guzman, Tiong Eng Goh, Meixiang Park, Hiromitsu Abe, Rebecca Viora, and Naoko Ishibashi, giving young Vietnamese and international musicians a rare opportunity to learn from and interact with some of the field's most accomplished artists.

During the six-day festival, contestants will compete in the Junior Division, MH Division, and Young Artist Division at Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay at Khem Beach, the festival's main venue.

Top performers will be honored at the Winners' Gala Concert, where the triumphant in the Young Artist Division will receive a US$1,000 cash prize.

The festival will also present a range of special awards, including the Audience Award and prizes sponsored by renowned flute maker Flutes and Flutists.

Alongside the competition, VIFF 2026 will feature a series of professional activities, including Fundamental Classes, Master Classes, Artist Classes, concerts, ensemble performances, an instrument exhibition, and the gala night 'When the Wind Sings.'

Beyond its reputation as one of Asia's leading resort destinations, Phu Quoc has been steadily strengthening its position as a destination for international cultural, artistic, and entertainment events.

In recent years, the island’s southern area has expanded its cultural and entertainment offerings with landmark attractions, large-scale performances, and new creative spaces, including Hon Bridge (also known as Kiss Bridge), Kiss of the Sea, Symphony of the Sea, Sun Signature Gallery, the Campanile clock tower, and Apollo Square.

Sun PhuQuoc Airways is partnering with VIFF 2026 to bring artists, students, and flute enthusiasts from around the world to Phu Quoc through its expanding flight network.