Richmond Symphony League Student Concerto Competition
An annual statewide competition recognizing exceptional young instrumentalists from across Virginia.
Since 1969, the Richmond Symphony League has presented its annual Student Concerto Competition to encourage and recognize outstanding young musicians from across Virginia. The competition gives emerging instrumentalists an opportunity to perform before a panel of judges, earn cash awards, and be considered for future performance opportunities with the Richmond Symphony or Richmond Symphony League.
Eligibility
The competition is open to classically trained instrumental students who reside in Virginia and have not yet graduated from high school. Eligible instruments include woodwinds, brass, strings, piano, and percussion.
Repertoire and application process
Applicants prepare one movement from the standard classical concerto repertoire. Repertoire must be approved by Richmond Symphony Education staff before formal registration, and the selected movement must meet the duration requirements published for the current competition cycle.
Accepted contestants perform from memory with an accompanist and provide the required scores, forms, photograph, résumé, and registration materials. Participation is limited, so completing repertoire approval and registration early is encouraged.
Awards and performance opportunities
Grand-prize and runner-up recipients receive cash awards. Winners may also be considered for an invitation to perform with the Richmond Symphony or at a Richmond Symphony League event. Award amounts, application dates, fees, and performance opportunities are announced for each annual competition.