COT’s first Young Artists’ Competition (YAC) in 1984 was the only event of its kind in this area for high-school age musicians. Other competitions in town were open to college-age students as well, so the younger children rarely had a chance to win the opportunity to perform.

Now in its 35th year, the competition has expanded to three categories: winds and percussion, piano, and strings. Each category is judged separately with both a junior and a senior division. The competition offers students a good introduction to the audition process.

Winners gain public exposure and are awarded cash prizes. The event provides each entrant a unique learning experience, and music teachers from both studios and schools applaud the orchestra for this contribution to the young musicians’ development. To date, COT has hosted over 70 performances by students ranging from elementary to high-school age.

We will again be offering an Ensemble category, the first of its kind in Tucson. Groups of 2 to 10 young musicians may apply together as an ensemble and perform a chamber work. Groups may consist of students of any age (up through Grade 12). The selected piece should not require orchestral accompaniment.

Read the Rules & Eligibility document below for all the details.