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).

Competition Eligibility

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.

Application Requirements

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

The 2027 YoungArts application closes on Tuesday, October 6, 2026 at 8 PM ET.

Resources

Select Performances from Winners

"Theme For Harvey" composed by Benjamin Schwartz

"An Uncertain Pursuit" composed by Benjamin Collins Siegel

"The Acquaintance" composed by Cosmo Lieberman

"Skylark" arranged by Mason Bryant

"Are You There?" composed by Ryoma Takenaga

"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)