Jazz
Jazz is one of 10 artistic disciplines in YoungArts’ national competition. This discipline is open to composers and instrumentalists (if you are a jazz vocalist, please see our Voice discipline).
To be eligible, you must be able to answer ”Yes“ to these statements:
- I am either a citizen of the United States, a permanent resident/green card recipient, or I can demonstrate that I am legally able to receive taxable income in the United States.
- I am in grades 10–12 or 15–18 years of age on December 1 of the year I am applying.
- If I’m selected as an award winner with distinction, this would be my first time attending National YoungArts Week.
Strong auditions showcase the artist’s individual work, technical expertise, and unique and original sound.
The 2026 YoungArts application opens in July 2025.
Application tips | Dr. Ronald C. McCurdy, Guest Artist
Application tips | Dr. Ronald C. McCurdy, Guest Artist
What is the YoungArts community like? | Emmet Cohen (2008, 2009 Jazz), Guest Artist
What is the YoungArts community like? | Emmet Cohen (2008, 2009 Jazz), Guest Artist
"Theme For Harvey" composed by Benjamin Schwartz
"Theme For Harvey" composed by Benjamin Schwartz
"An Uncertain Pursuit" composed by Benjamin Collins Siegel
"An Uncertain Pursuit" composed by Benjamin Collins Siegel
"The Acquaintance" composed by Cosmo Lieberman
"The Acquaintance" composed by Cosmo Lieberman
"Skylark" arranged by Mason Bryant
"Skylark" arranged by Mason Bryant
"Are You There?" composed by Ryoma Takenaga
"Are You There?" composed by Ryoma Takenaga
"Habanero" composed by Skylar Tang
"Habanero" composed by Skylar Tang
See our FAQ for answers to common questions about the competition and application.
I was able to forge life-changing relationships and had an opportunity to perform in Aspen that… led to a gig at Alice Tully Hall. So much of success in the music business hinges on the connections you make, and YoungArts really helps.”
— Veronica Leahy (2018 Jazz)