Chamber Ensemble Competition

Performers must complete the application and submit the registration fee in order to perform
- Click the “Register” button above for the application
Ensembles must be made up of Arizona residents.
Performers may be no younger than 12 and no older than 18 on the date of the competition.
Early submission is advised. It is possible that all available slots for ensembles will be filled before the end of the application submission period. If all slots are filled before the end of the application submission period, please email competition@azmusicfest.org to be placed on a waiting list.
No application refunds will be given in the event of ensemble withdrawal.

The Competition date/time for 2025 is TBA
- We ask families to please reserve the entire duration of the competition until ensembles receive their exact timeslot.
- The competition may begin earlier or later depending on the number of ensembles.
Performers will be notified of their exact timeslot by TBA
Performers will be assigned an arrival time that is roughly 5-10 minutes before their scheduled warm-up time.
Ensembles will receive 10-15 minutes of warm-up time prior to their assigned competition time, based on the length of the piece.

The competition will be held at Arizona Musicfest: 7950 E Thompson Peak Pkwy. Scottsdale, AZ 85255 (Map)
One piano will be provided. If needed, ensembles must provide their own page turner.

Music chosen for the competition must be standard literature chosen from the Baroque, Classical, Romantic, or Contemporary periods.
- Simplified versions are not acceptable. Standard transcriptions may be accepted. Please email competition@azmusicfest.org to confirm specific transcription eligibility.
- Multiple movements from a work may be entered as one selection, so long as the total program does not exceed the allotted time for the performance.
Ensembles may perform 1 or 2 selections that total no more than 15 minutes.
Music must be performed without a conductor.
Ensembles must provide three total copies of their score(s):
- Scores should not have markings that would indicate the performer or teacher’s identities.
- Score(s) must have measures numbered and cuts marked (if any) so the judges can use them as a reference during the performance.

Scores will be checked at the Welcome Table for the above requirements and will be returned directly after the performance.

Up to three ensembles will be awarded cash prizes:
- First Prize: $450/member
- Second Prize: $350/member
- Third Prize: $200/member
Awarded ensembles may be invited to perform in the Young Musicians Concert Series in the MIM Music Theater.
Awarded ensembles may receive additional performance opportunities as they are announced.

Judges will stop ensembles if their performance exceeds the competition time limits. There is no penalty if an ensemble needs to be stopped for this reason.
Prizes are awarded at the end of the competition to ensembles who display the highest level of artistic excellence.
Judges may elect to award Honorable Mentions to ensembles demonstrating high levels of artistry in their performances.
Judges have the option to withhold prizes.
All ensemble coaches will receive judges’ comments within a week of the adjudication date.

Young Musicians