Download 2012 Application Package
Please read the application package carefully as the requirements of the competition have changed.
Competition Requirements: Contestants must abide by all competition requirements or be disqualified.
- This is a solo competition and is not open to ensembles (duets, trios, quartets)
- Applicants must prepare one movement of a concerto or work of equal importance, with available orchestral accompaniment in its original form (with no cuts) that is a maximum of ten minutes in length when played in its entirety. The length of piece is designed to accommodate the format and repertoire of the Symphony's Music Discovery performances while ensuring an edifying and rewarding experience for all.
- During the preliminary competition, the accompanist should limit lengthy introductory accompaniment to several lead-in measures. Our judges are only interested in the evaluation of the applicant's skills. However, the movement, when played in its entirety must be under 10 minutes.
- Applicants are not required to memorize their competition piece.
- Each applicant is limited to compete on one instrument.
- Applicants must be able to perform their piece at the time of the competition at a level which is suitable for performance with the Lancaster Symphony Orchestra.
- Applicants must supply their own accompanist for the competition.
- Any special competition time requests must be made with the return of your completed application. We will try to accommodate you within our scheduling format
- Applicant must supply four copies of their performance piece with each measure numbered. This will enable the judges to provide a detailed evaluation.
Contestants will be judged on a scale of 1 -10 points in the following categories:
- Dynamics
- expression/interpretation/artistry
- phrasing
- poise/stage presence
- rhythm
- technique
- tone quality
The preliminary round of the Senior competition will be closed to the public except for the judging panel, members of the Women’s Symphony Board, a representative of the Lancaster Symphony Orchestra, accompanists, and parents. The final round of competition will be open to the public. No photography will be permitted during the final round of competition.
Senior Division Awards
The first place winner will receive the following: a $300 cash prize awarded from the Women’s Symphony Association, a $4000 ($1000 per year) scholarship presented by the Lancaster Symphony Orchestra to any student pursuing a college degree and continuing their music studies, an opportunity to perform as guest soloist with the Lancaster Symphony Orchestra at the Symphony's Music Discovery performances, and an opportunity for an additional showcase performance during a Women’s Symphony Association event. The first place winner will also receive an invitation to the Lancaster Symphony Orchestra’s annual Composer’s Award event and four tickets to any Classic Concert series performance of the Lancaster Symphony Orchestra. In the event that the first place winner is unable to fulfill his/her obligations, the second place winner will be given the performance opportunities of the first place winner.
The second place winner will receive $200 and the third place winner $100.
If you have any further questions, or you need additional applications, please contact Mallory Oxberry, Director of Community Engagement at 717-291-6440, ext. 303 or malloryeoxberry@lancastersymphony.org
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