Who is eligible: Registered members of VAM WonderPhilharmonic Level 1
Application deadline: October 19, 2026
Competition dates: November 16, 2026
To apply: Apply online or download an application form.
VAM presents its 7th annual VAM WonderPhilharmonic Level 1 (formerly Friendly Philharmonic) Debut Spotlight Solo Competition providing an opportunity for one soloist to perform a movement of a concerto or solo piece with the VAM WonderPhilharmonic Level 1 orchestra in the 2026/27 VAM Orchestra Festival *.
VAM will ensure that the competition is impartially and professionally conducted with a two-person adjudication panel consisting of experienced musicians with no affiliation with the competing musicians.
* 2026/27 VAM Orchestra Festival will be performed at the Orpheum.
Eligibility
Eligible students:
-are currently members in good standing of VAM WonderPhilharmonic Level 1;
-are not winners of the 2025/26 VAMFP Solo Competition.
Dates
Application Deadline: October 19, 2026, 11:59pm
Competition: November 16, 2026
*Students will receive notice of their specific time slot following the application deadline.
Competition Rules
1. Students must perform on the instrument they currently play in WonderPhilharmonic Level 1.
2. Repertoire selections must not exceed 8 minutes in duration. Repertoire must be performed with accompaniment. For the competition, tutti passages must be shortened as necessary.
3. The selection must be approved by the Orchestra Manager and meet the length, orchestration and proficiency requirements. Repertoire approval will be confirmed within 3 business days of the application deadline.
4. If the selected repertoire requires performance licensing or copyright clearance, the student is responsible for any associated costs if chosen as a winner and invited to perform.
5. Students must provide 2 copies of the solo part or piano reduction for the adjudication committee (photocopies are permitted).
6. Performers must perform from memory.
7. Performers must perform with and provide their own pianist.
8. The competition phase is closed to the public with the exception of the parent/guardian and teacher of the student performing; no video or audio recording permitted.
9. All applications must include a non-refundable $65 application fee.
10. The winner will be awarded the Orpheum Prize and will perform at the Orpheum in the 2026/27 VAM Orchestra Festival. The winner must perform the same repertoire selection that they competed with.
11. By applying to the competition, the student and parent/guardian agree that any resulting recordings from winner’s performances with VAM WonderPhilharmonic Level 1 may be used for VAM’s promotional purposes.
Apply
The VAMWP1 Debut Spotlight Solo Competition is open to VAM students only. Please log in to your account to apply.