Yamaha’s application process for its 2018 Yamaha Young Performing Artists (YYPA) competition is now open.
Between now and Jan. 8, musicians aged 18–22 are invited to apply to the prestigious program, which has been recognizing outstanding young musicians from the worlds of classical, jazz and contemporary music for three decades.
Winners of the 2018 competition will be invited to attend an all-expense-paid trip to the YYPA Celebration Weekend, taking place at the Music for All Summer Symposium. There, they will have the opportunity to perform in front of thousands of students and music educators, participate in workshops designed to launch a professional music career and receive national press coverage along with a recording and photos of the live performance. Winners will also enjoy many of the privileges of a Yamaha Artist, including services and communication with Yamaha Artist Relations.
“The YYPA Program is one music competition where the prizes can last a lifetime,” said John Wittmann, director, Artist Relations and Education, Yamaha Artist Services Indianapolis. “Since the program began in 1988, Yamaha has set young artists on track toward long, successful careers as both performers and educators.”
The competition is open to students studying in the U.S., who are 18-22 years of age at the time of entry. Applications will be considered for piccolo, flute, oboe, bassoon, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, French horn, trombone, euphonium, tuba, mallet or concert percussion, drums, violin, viola, cello, upright bass and piano.
“We want as many students as possible to get involved,” Wittmann said. “Of course, it’s always hard to choose just 10 winners from so many gifted applicants, but we’ve seen that even the act of preparing their applications helps young musicians focus on their talent and their careers. For all who enter, the YYPA competition can be a step toward a promising musical future.”