Enrich. Engage. Educate.

Montana’s Next Musical Generation

The Montana Association of Symphony Orchestras believes in continuing our work by investing in the next generation of musicians. In order to help encourage the development of today’s young musicians we established the bi-annual Young Artist Competition in 1991. Originally envisioned as both a performance showcase and a scholarship opportunity, our ultimate hope is that this competition inspires Montana’s young musicians to pursue their dreams and aspire to professional heights.

orchestra concert symphony music

Thank you to our 2023 sponsors!

Junior

Ages 13-15
Prize: $450

Senior

Ages 16 through high school graduate
Prize: $650

College

Post high school through undergraduate
Prize: $1,000

Mark Your Calendar!

Date of Next Competition: January 2025

Each year that Montana Association of Symphony Orchestras holds this competition, up-and-coming young musicians from across the state compete for the unique opportunity to perform as soloists in concert with one or more Montana orchestras. This is a valuable chance for young musicians to make a professional debut—something many accomplished artists wait years for. Finalists are invited to the live competition to perform before three out-of-state judges in the junior, senior, and college divisions.

Any musician between the ages of 13 and undergraduate school who plays an orchestral instrument is invited to enter and compete. Participants must be Montana residents, and past winners of this competition are ineligible to compete again in the same division. Musicians apply by submitting an application describing their musical experience along with an audio file of the selection they intend to perform at the competition. These applications are divided into the three divisions and then sent out to Montana Association of Symphony Orchestras screening judges for evaluation. Recommendations from the screening judges of which musicians will be invited to perform in a live audition are then forwarded on. Three nationally recognized judges adjudicate the live performances and award prizes.

Regardless of whether a student wins or not, the experience of the competition builds stronger musicians, encourages them to always strive for excellence, and fosters leadership qualities and confidence in their performance skills. Those present for the competition, not only have the privilege of hearing some of Montana’s finest musical talent, but are left inspired by the amazing accomplishment of these young musicians.

Instructions for applicants: Click “sign in” in the top right corner once you are directed to the getacceptd page. Create a new account. *Note to parents and/or teachers: If you are starting an application for your child or student, please click “I am applying for someone else” when prompted.

Congratulations to our 2023 winners!

Junior Division – $450 Prize
1st place: Charlie Snellman, Helena MT
Runner-up: Tarquin Bennion, Sidney MT
Honorable Mention: Elliot Cleary, Helena MT
Senior Division – $650 Prize
1st place: Luke Banks, Great Falls MT
Runner-up: Maren Elliot, Helena MT
Honorable Mention: Hollis Elliot, Helena MT
College Division – $1000 Prize
1st place: Antonio Jarvey, Great Falls MT
Runner-up: Julien Rollins, Billings MT
Honorable Mention: David Harmsworth, Missoula MT