Jefferson Symphony Orchestra

JSO*YAC

Starting in April 2024, JSO*YAC is receiving applications via acceptd. Begin your application and audition requirements here.

Key Dates

Round 1 is now open through September 2024.

Monday, September 30, 2024: Round 1 submission deadline for application, audio and video recording of concerto, and registration fees via Acceptd.
All movements of your selected concerto must be uploaded via Acceptd by our Round 1 deadline.
Your recording piece must include audio/video of your concerto performance.
Concerto submissions will be adjudicated by a panel of two judges. Notifications will be sent by October 9, 2024, by email to all applicants and the twelve finalists selected for Round 2.

Round 2 is a live-audition final round with your collaborative pianist in January 2025.

Saturday, January 11, 2025: all-day live finals and Winners' Recital in Denver, CO.
Each performance will be adjudicated by a panel of three judges.
Competition results are announced in the afternoon.
A Winners' Recital featuring the top finalists is scheduled on Saturday evening, at the same venue, at 7:00 p.m.
The JSO*YAC takes place at Wellshire Presbyterian Church, 2999 S Colorado Blvd, Denver, CO 80222

2025 Young Artist rehearsals and performances are scheduled.

March 27-30, 2025: Dress Rehearsals, Young Artist Recital, and Young Artist Concert with JSO.
2024-25 Repertoire, full season info TBA.
Thursday, March 27 / 7:00 PM: Dress Rehearsal with JSO
Friday, March 28 / 7:00 PM: Young Artist Recital (~45 solo recital, artists' choice of repertoire)
Saturday, March 29 / 10:00 AM: Dress Rehearsal with JSO
Sunday, March 30 / 3:00 PM : Young Artist Concert with JSO and Dr. J. Arturo González, conductor
Rehearsals and Concert take place at the CSM Green Center: 924 16th St, Golden, CO 80401
Young Artist Recital takes place at the Jefferson Unitarian Church: 14350 W 32nd Ave, Golden, CO 80401

2022 YAC Winners (L to R):

Ji Eun Park, viola

First Place

Roni Shitrit, violin

Second Place

Ethan Blake, cello

Third Place

The JSO*YAC, now in its 64th year, offers cash prizes and exceptional solo opportunities for talented performers. First Prize winner receives $5,000 and our invitation to perform with the Jefferson Symphony Orchestra. Second and Third prizes include cash and recital opportunities.

Performance + Cash Awards

First Place:

Feature performance with Jefferson Symphony as our 2025 Young Artist

Solo recital (performer's choice of works) for JSO patrons

Guest performance at JSO*YAC Winner's Recital

$5000 cash prizes*

Second Place:

Guest performance at JSO*YAC Winner's Recital

recognition of achievement from JSO media

$2000 cash prizes*

Third Place:

Guest performance at JSO*YAC Winner's Recital

recognition of achievement from JSO media

$1000 cash prizes*

*The JSO*YAC committee awards $1000 towards each cash prize immediately following the competition in January.

Remaining awards to First and Second place are distributed after the Young Artists Concert in April 2025.

JSO*YAC Experiences

“I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to come to Colorado and play for the judges, audience and my peers. It is sometimes very hard as a young musician to find rewarding venues to play for. Here, the music is obviously treasured by the listeners and participants alike. Thank you for giving me this opportunity. I could not have hoped for a better weekend.”

– Finalist

“The finalists are all winners! It was a very exciting event to judge. It was revitalizing to be able to listen to such high quality performances, which reflect the musicians' dedication to their art. It made me want to go home and practice!”

– Judge