The DeKalb Symphony Orchestra (DSO) is thrilled to invite you to participate in our 2026 Young Artists Concerto Competition. This competition is a wonderful opportunity to compete for the chance to perform as a featured soloist with the DeKalb Symphony Orchestra on November 17, 2026.

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We hope you will share this opportunity with your students and encourage them to apply!

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COMPETITION OVERVIEW

Eligibility: Open to Georgia high school students in grades 9–12 who play strings, winds, brass, or percussion.

Repertoire: Applicants should prepare one movement of a standard concerto or another solo work with orchestral accompaniment, no longer than 20 minutes. Orchestral parts must be available.

Preliminary Audition: Applicants must submit a video recording of their selected repertoire. Piano accompaniment is not required for the prescreening video.

Final Audition: Selected finalists will audition live on October 18 at Emory University. Piano accompaniment is required for the final round, and finalists are responsible for arranging their own pianist.

Application Fee: A $50 non-refundable application fee is required.

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IMPORTANT DATES

Application Deadline: October 8, 2026
Finalists Announced: By October 11, 2026
Final Live Audition: October 18, 2026 | Emory University
Winner's Performance: Tuesday, November 17, 2026 at 7:30 PM | First Baptist Church of Decatur

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The competition winner must also be available for the following rehearsals:

Sunday, November 15 | 7:00–10:00 PM | Tharp Rehearsal Hall
Monday, November 16 | 7:00–10:00 PM | First Baptist Church of Decatur

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For complete competition information and to apply: