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.
2018/19 Applications Available
Kay Meek Competition
Who is eligible: VAM students age 14 and over as of May 31, 2019
Application deadline: April 31
Competition dates: May 31
To apply: Apply online or download an application form.
Elsje de Ridder Armstrong Chamber Music Competition
Who is eligible: Chamber groups consisting of VAM private students
Application deadline: March 27
Competition dates: April 27
To apply: Apply online or download an application form.
Bjorn & Lori Hareid Senior Secondary Competition
Who is eligible: Piano students in grades 10-12
Application deadline: January 11
Competition dates: February 15 (competition), February 17 (winners' recital)
To apply: Apply online or download an application form.
Alto Clef Festival
Who is eligible: VAM viola students
Application deadline: April 9
Competition dates: May 9 (competition) and May 23 (concert)
To apply: Apply online or download an application form.
Biannual Competitions
2018/19 Applications Closed
Barbara Clague Festival of Song
Who is eligible: VAM voice students born after January 1, 2000
Application deadline: March 13
Competition dates: April 13
To apply: Apply online or download an application form.
Jerold Gerbrecht Woodwind & Brass Competition
Who is eligible: VAM woodwind & brass students
Application deadline: January 22
Competition dates: February 22 (preliminary) and March 2 (final)
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, 2018
Application deadline: January 22
Competition dates: February 22 (competition), March 3 (scholarship recital)
To apply: Apply online or download an application form.
Phyllis Salter Piano Competition
Who is eligible: VAM piano students born between January 1, 2000 and December 31, 2004
Application deadline: December 21
Competition dates: January 29 (preliminary), February 2 (final)
To apply: Apply online or download an application form.
VAMIS Concerto Competition
Who is eligible: Registered members of VAMIS
Application deadline: October 23
Competition dates: November 23
To apply: Apply online or download an application form.
VAMJS Concerto Competition
Who is eligible: Registered members of VAMJS
Application deadline: October 23
Competition dates: November 16
To apply: Apply online or download an application form.