Young Artist
Competitions

Bolz Young Artist Competition

2020 Competition Information

We are planning to hold three rounds of the competition in person:
Preliminary Round: early January, date TBD
Semi-Final Round: late January, date TBD (not open to the public)
Final Round (The Final Forte): Wednesday, March 3, 2021, on Overture Hall stage (with a limited or no audience)

Submit application by Jan. 11, 2021

There are a few changes to the rules and procedures this year. We regret that we are not able to accept any wind or brass applications this year, as all instrumentalists will need to wear a mask during the entire audition/performance process.

Due to orchestral regulations, there are different requirements for repertoire this year. All applicants must email Lisa at lkjentvet@madisonsymphony.org with the preferred audition piece, movement, and publisher as soon as possible to determine if the desired repertoire is feasible for this year’s competition. Pieces will be considered on a case by case basis.

Please submit your application and payment online by Monday, January 11, 2021 and email Lisa at lkjentvet@madisonsymphony.org with any questions.

Thank you!

The Bolz Young Artist Competition is a highly-regarded statewide competition in which Wisconsin’s young musicians compete for scholarships and the opportunity to perform as soloists with the MSO. The competition is open to Wisconsin residents in grades 9-12. Previous winners may not compete in consecutive years on the same instrument. Contracted musicians of the MSO are ineligible.

The four semi-finalists compete in The Final Forte, which we anticipate will be broadcast on PBS Wisconsin and Wisconsin Public Radio. Each winner receives a $2000 scholarship and the Marian Bolz Prize for Distinguished Musical Achievement or the Steenbock Youth Music Award. Up to two Honorable Mention scholarships of $1000 may also be awarded.

Contact Education Assistant Lisa Kjentvet at lkjentvet@madisonsymphony.org with any questions.