Jefferson Symphony | Young Artists

Starting in April 2023, JSO*YAC is receiving applications via acceptd.

Begin your application and audition requirements here.

JSO*YAC Key Dates

Round 1 is now open through September 29, 2023.

Friday, September 29, 2023: 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 11, 2023, to all applicants and the twelve finalists selected for Round 2.

Round 2 is a live-audition competition with your collaborative pianist on January 6, 2024.

Saturday, January 6, 2024: all-day live finals and Winners' Recital at Colorado Christian University in Lakewood, 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 three finalists is scheduled on that same Saturday evening at 7:00 p.m.

2024 Young Artist rehearsals and performances are scheduled.

Thursday, April 4, through Sunday, April 7, 2024: Dress Rehearsals, Young Artist Recital, and Young Artist Concert with JSO.
Repertoire, full season info, and conductor TBA.
Friday, April 5, at 7:00 p.m. -- Young Artist Recital (~45 solo recital, artists' choice)
Sunday, April 7, at 3:00 p.m. -- Young Artist Concert (with JSO and conductor Arturo González)

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 64rd 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 2024 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 2024.

Application

Visit acceptd to begin your application.

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