Young Musicians Concert

Young Musicians Concert
The Young Musicians Concert is a unique opportunity for outstanding 7-12 grade student chamber ensembles to perform on the stages of Lincoln Center and represent their schools and regions in a celebration of musical excellence.

Regional Semi-Final Performances
Ensembles are invited to submit a video audition for consideration. Selected groups will be invited to participate in one of four Regional Semi-Final Concerts based on their location:

• Hudson Valley / Connecticut
• New York City
• New Jersey
• Long Island

Each regional concert serves as a live adjudicated event, showcasing talented young musicians from across the area.

Artist Coaching at Lincoln Center
Finalist ensembles selected from the semi-finals will receive a one-hour coaching session at Lincoln Center with an artist from the Chamber Music Society. This personalized session will help prepare them for the final performance and give them invaluable insight into the artistry of chamber music.

Exclusive Open Rehearsal Experience
Finalists are also invited to attend an exclusive Open Rehearsal with CMS Artists. This is a rare chance to observe a professional ensemble at work. This experience is highly encouraged but optional.

Final Concert Experience
Finalist ensembles will be featured in one of two culminating concerts:

• May 11, 2027 at 11:00 AM - The Daniel and Joanna S. Rose Studio
• May 13, 2027 at 11:00 AM - Alice Tully Hall

These concerts mark the 43rd Annual Young Musicians Concert, offering an unforgettable performance experience for rising chamber musicians.

Complete the Online Application
Application available now.

Submit an Online Audition Video
As part of the application process each ensemble is required to submit an online audition video in the format outlined below.

Video Format:

• Your audition must be submitted as a video—audio-only files will not be accepted.
• Upload your video to either:
  • YouTube (set to Unlisted)
  • Google Drive (with link sharing turned on)

Video Title Format:
Please title your video using the following format:
School Name - Composer Piece Movement
Example: Pleasantville - Brahms Trio in A minor Movement 1

Video Audition Etiquette:

1. Wear concert-appropriate attire (e.g., black, white, or other neutral formalwear).
2. Position a single-camera at eye level, centered, and far enough back to clearly capture all players and instruments. Do not zoom or move the camera during the performance.
3. Place a single microphone 6–10 feet in front of the group at about ear height to achieve a balanced sound.
4. Record in a quiet, well-lit space with a clean background so the focus remains on your performance.

Be sure your video is complete, clearly labeled, and accessible via the shared link. Inaccessible videos may result in a disqualified application.

• Instrumental, vocal, or mixed ensembles of up to 12 performers, with one performer per part, may apply.

• The program is open to students in public or private schools. Pre-professional or community music schools are not eligible.

• All students in the ensemble must actively participate in their school music program (for example, band, orchestra, or chamber music club).

• The application must be submitted by the school music teacher on behalf of their students. The teacher will serve as the sole point of contact between the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center and the student ensemble.

• Schools may submit up to three ensembles. K–12 schools may submit up to three ensembles from grades 7–8 and up to three ensembles from grades 9–12; OR up to three ensembles total from grades 7–12.

• All students in the ensemble must attend the same school at the time of application and performance.

• Each student may participate in only one ensemble application.

• Ensembles must be available for all dates and commit to the full program schedule in order to remain eligible.

• Ensembles must submit up to 9 minutes of repertoire drawn from a single work. Multiple movements may be included as needed, but the total submission must not exceed 9 minutes.

• For works with a theme and variations, the theme must be included within the 9-minute limit.

• Arrangements or instrument substitutions will be considered on a case-by-case basis with prior approval from the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center’s Education and Community Engagement Department.

• Original student compositions are acceptable with prior approval from the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center’s Education and Community Engagement Department.

• Duos and sonatas (piano with one instrument) must feature equally substantial parts.

• Percussion ensembles must provide and transport their own instruments and equipment if selected.

• The Handel/Halvorsen Duo and works for two pianos are not permitted.

• Suggested repertoire may be found in the NYSSMA Manual, the NJSSE repertoire lists, or other recognized regional or state repertoire lists for grades 7–12 instrumental and vocal solo and ensemble performance.