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.
2024/25 Applications Open
Elsje de Ridder Armstrong Chamber Music Competition
Who is eligible: Chamber groups consisting of VAM registered students
Application deadline: May 11, 2025
Competition dates: June 14, 2025
To apply: Apply online or download an application form.
2024/25 Applications Closed
VAMFP Debut Spotlight Solo Competition
Who is eligible: Registered members of VAMFP
Application deadline: September 29, 2024
Competition dates: October 21, 2024
To apply: Apply online or download an application form.
VAMJS Concerto Competition
Who is eligible: Registered members of VAMJS
Application deadline: September 29, 2024
Competition dates: October 21, 2024
To apply: Apply online or download an application form.
VAMIS Concerto Competition
Who is eligible: Registered members of VAMIS
Application deadline: September 29, 2024
Competition dates: October 21, 2024
To apply: Apply online or download an application form.
Edith Lando Gifted Youth Competition
Who is eligible: VAM students age 13 and under as of December 31, 2024
Application deadline: January 12, 2025
Competition dates: February 10, 2025
To apply: Apply online or download an application form.
Young Composers’ Competition
Who is eligible: VAM composition students
Application deadline: January 12, 2025
Competition dates: April 5, 2025 finalist reading session with VAM Symphony Orchestra
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 26, 2025
Competition dates: February 24, 2025
To apply: Apply online or download an application form.
Phyllis Salter Piano Competition
Who is eligible: VAM piano students aged 26 and under
Application deadline: March 30, 2025
Competition dates: April 28, 2025
To apply: Apply online or download an application form.
Alto Clef Festival
Who is eligible: VAM viola students
Application deadline: April 6, 2025
Competition dates: May 5, 2025
To apply: Apply online or download an application form.
Kay Meek Competition
Who is eligible: VAM students 14 and older as of May 12, 2025
Application deadline: April 13, 2025
Competition dates: May 12, 2025
To apply: Apply online or download an application form.
Bjorn & Lori Hareid Concerto Competition
Who is eligible: VAM private students
Application deadline: April 13, 2025
Competition dates: May 26-27, 2025
To apply: Apply online or download an application form.
Barbara Clague Festival of Song
Who is eligible: VAM voice students
Application deadline: May 4, 2025
Competition dates: June 1, 2025
To apply: Apply online or download an application form.