VAM’s annual competitions aim to identify the accomplishment of talented students and offer recognition for their hard work. Awards include opportunities to perform as soloist with one of VAM’s orchestras and scholarships to assist students in advancing their musical studies.
2023/24 Applications Open
Elsje de Ridder Armstrong Chamber Music Competition
Who is eligible: Chamber groups consisting of VAM registered students
Application deadline: May 13, 2024
Competition dates: June 8, 2024
To apply: Apply online or download an application form.
Barbara Clague Festival of Song
Who is eligible: VAM voice students
Application deadline: May 13, 2024
Competition dates: June 9, 2024
To apply: Apply online or download an application form.
2023/24 Applications Closed
Kay Meek Competition
Who is eligible: VAM students 14 and older as of May 13, 2024
Application deadline: April 15, 2024
Competition dates: May 13, 2024
To apply: Apply online or download an application form.
Jerold Gerbrecht Woodwind & Brass Competition
Who is eligible: VAM woodwind, brass, & percussion students
Application deadline: January 29, 2024
Competition dates: February 26, 2024
To apply: Apply online or download an application form.
Edith Lando Gifted Youth Competition
Who is eligible: VAM students 13 and under as of December 31, 2023
Application deadline: January 15, 2024
Competition dates: February 12, 2024
To apply: Apply online or download an application form.
VAMIS Concerto Competition
Who is eligible: Registered members of VAMIS
Application deadline: September 25
Competition dates: October 16
To apply: Apply online or download an application form.
Alto Clef Festival
Who is eligible: VAM viola students
Application deadline: April 8, 2024
Competition dates: May 6, 2024
To apply: Apply online or download an application form.
VAMJS Concerto Competition
Who is eligible: Registered members of VAMJS
Application deadline: September 25
Competition dates: October 16
To apply: Apply online or download an application form.
Phyllis Salter Piano Competition
Who is eligible: VAM piano students ages 26 and under
Application deadline: April 8, 2024
Competition dates: April 29, 2024
To apply: Apply online or download an application form.
VAMFP Debut Spotlight Solo Competition
Who is eligible: Registered members of VAMFP
Application deadline: September 25
Competition dates: October 16
To apply: Apply online or download an application form.
BassFest Competition
Who is eligible: Bass students up to the age of 18 as of March 4, 2024. Open to non-VAM students.
Application deadline: February 5, 2024
Competition dates: March 4, 2024
To apply: Apply online or download an application form.
VAMSO Vivaldi Competition
Who is eligible: Current VAMSO violinists
Application deadline: September 25, 2023
Competition dates: October 16, 2023
To apply: Apply online