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.
2026/27 Applications Closed
2026/27 Applications Open
VAMWP1 Debut Spotlight Solo Competition
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.
VAMWP2 Concerto Competition
Who is eligible: Registered members of VAM WonderPhilharmonic Level 2
Application deadline: October 19, 2026
Competition dates: November 16, 2026
To apply: Apply online or download an application form.
VAMIS Concerto Competition
Who is eligible: Registered members of VAMIS
Application deadline: October 19, 2026
Competition dates: November 16, 2026
To apply: Apply online or download an application form.
Amati and Stradivari Players Concerto Competition
Who is eligible: Registered members of Amati and Stradivari Players
Application deadline: October 26, 2026
Competition dates: November 23, 2026
To apply: Apply online or download an application form.
Edith and Esmond Lando Gifted Youth Competition
Who is eligible: VAM students age 13 and under as of December 31, 2026
Application deadline: January 11, 2027
Competition dates: February 8, 2027
To apply: Apply online or download an application form.
Young Composers’ Competition
Who is eligible: VAM composition students
Application deadline: January 11, 2027
Competition dates: April 10, 2027 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 25, 2027
Competition dates: February 22, 2027
To apply: Apply online or download an application form.
Elsje de Ridder Armstrong Chamber Music Competition
Who is eligible: Chamber groups consisting of VAM registered students with an average age of 26 years or under
Application deadline: April 5, 2027
Competition dates: May 3, 2027
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: April 5, 2027
Competition dates: May 4, 2027
To apply: Apply online or download an application form.
Alto Clef Festival
Who is eligible: VAM viola students
Application deadline: April 12, 2027
Competition dates: May 10, 2027
To apply: Apply online or download an application form.
Kay Meek Competition
Who is eligible: VAM students age 14 and older as of May 17, 2027
Application deadline: April 19, 2027
Competition dates: May 17 & 18, 2027
To apply: Apply online or download an application form.
Bjorn & Lori Hareid Concerto Competition
Who is eligible: VAM private students
Application deadline: April 19, 2027
Competition dates: May 31-June 1, 2027
To apply: Apply online or download an application form.
Barbara Clague Festival of Song
Who is eligible: VAM voice students
Application deadline: April 26, 2027
Competition dates: May 23, 2027
To apply: Apply online or download an application form.