Eleven musicians have been named the winners of the 2019 Yamaha Young Performing Artists (YYPA) Competition, presented by the Band & Orchestral division of Yamaha Corp. of America.
The YYPA Competition recognizes outstanding young musicians studying in the United States who excel in jazz, classical and contemporary genres. In addition to this year’s 11 winners, six individuals were awarded honorable mentions.
“For over 30 years, Yamaha has acknowledged remarkable, young, aspiring musicians and assisted in launching their careers through the YYPA program. We are committed to encouraging these musicians to share their passion with the world and move others with their sound,” said John Wittmann, director of artist relations and education, Yamaha Artist Services Indianapolis. “This year’s winners contribute to the legacy that the YYPA program has upheld and we are proud to shine a spotlight on these young men and women for the musical excellence they have accomplished so early in their careers.”
Each applicant submitted an audio/video audition and support materials, which were evaluated by an expert panel of Yamaha Performing Artists and national celebrity musicians. Winners of the competition demonstrated superior technical skill and artistry on brass, winds, strings, percussion instruments and piano.