2026 National Arts Competition Application Requirements

Classical Music – Composition

Please follow the requirements as closely as possible. Failure to comply with the requirements may make your application ineligible for an award.  

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Application Requirements

For your application, submit two (2) full score original compositions in any style of notion-based music composed primarily for classically trained musicians. Include the following and in the following order:

  • One (1) complete composition for solo or small ensemble, either vocal or instrumental (up to eight (8) performers) approximately ten (10) minutes in length.
  • One (1) complete contrasting composition for large ensemble, either vocal or instrumental (nine (9) or more performers).
  • Each score should be submitted as a PDF.
  • A digital video or audio recording for each work is required. (Audio files must be MP3.)

Guidelines for Recording

  • Ensure recording captures good quality image (video) and sound. Check for good balance and blend.
  • Make sure there are one (1) to three (3) seconds of silence before the beginning of the piece.

Media Submission Requirements

  • Save and name your files with their titles, with each piece being a separate video file.
    • Total size for each file cannot exceed 2 GB.
  • Save and upload each score in PDF format and video/audio recording separately.
  • Indicate the title of the composition in the space provided in your application.
  • Do not put your name or any identifying information in or on your media submission.
  • You may submit pre-recorded live performances, such as recitals or concerts.

Intellectual Property and Copyright Requirements

  • All submitted work must be wholly original and may not infringe upon the copyright or intellectual property of any other person or entity.
  • You are welcome to submit materials that have been part of other applications, competitions, or projects. YoungArts does not own any works submitted to its competition, however if your work has been submitted to other competitions, you are responsible for obtaining permission to submit to YoungArts, if necessary.