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).

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Jazz winners playing the bass and saxophone

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

2025 application requirements will be available in July 2024. Sign up for updates.

Strong auditions showcase the artist’s individual work, technical expertise, and unique and original sound.

The 2025 YoungArts application opens in July 2024.

Resources

Tips and Testimonials from Winners and Guest Artists

Select Performances from Winners

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)