Concerto Competition

About the Competition

Every 2 years, the VPO hosts a Concerto Competition to showcase local talent and give young musicians the opportunity to perform with a full Symphony Orchestra.

The competition is open to serious young, amateur musicians who play any instrument (cello, piano, clarinet, bassoon, trumpet...there are no limitations). Six finalists will have an opportunity to perform one movement of a concerto with a full-sized symphony orchestra. In addition, cash prizes for the winners will be awarded on the evening of the competition. Preference will be given to students who are serious about pursuing a career in music.

Competition Details

  • Eligible applicants must either be registered full-time in a secondary or post-secondary institution, or they must be under the age of 19.

  • To apply, the following must be submitted:

    • Application Form (Download Form Here)

    • Recording(s) of you performing one work, or preferably two contrasting works. The recording does not need to be the same piece you intend to perform live for the competition (though it is recommended), but it must demonstrate your ability and should be of similar difficulty to the proposed performance piece. The recording quality need not be professional. Links to online audio or video recordings is preferred (e.g., YouTube), but we will also accept CD/DVD/USB recordings mailed to the address below.

    • $25 application fee payable by e-transfer to vancouver.philharmonic@gmail.com, or by cheque or money order made out to “Vancouver Philharmonic Orchestra” and mailed to the address below.

  • A review committee comprised of VPO members will select up to six finalists from among all of the applicants. The finalists will be invited to perform one movement of a concerto (maximum duration: 15 minutes) with the Vancouver Philharmonic Orchestra in front of a live audience.

    The piece of music selected should be available through public domain sources (e.g., imslp.org). If it is not, the finalist may be asked to provide the orchestral music. There is no specified repertoire list to choose from, but the orchestra reserves the right to require applicants to choose different pieces, if necessary (e.g., in the event that two or more finalists select the same work, one will be asked to perform an alternate selection).

    Finalists must be available to attend two rehearsals on Wednesday nights leading up to the final competition, as well as the Friday night dress rehearsal on February 20, 2026. The competition will take place on Saturday, February 21, 2026, 7:30pm at Shaughnessy Heights United Church, 1550 West 33 rd Ave, Vancouver.

  • A panel of judges will announce the winners at the end of the concert.

    • The first place winner will be awarded $500, plus an additional $500 from the David Clark Performance Development Award for further music lessons, training, or education.

    • Second ($250) and third place ($100) prizes will also be awarded.

    • All six finalists will receive a professional audio recording of their performance.

  • Applications must be received no later than November 8, 2025.

  • Application Forms can be downloaded here: