Award: The winner in each category will perform as a soloist at one of the orchestra’s concerts of the season, during the 2026–2027 season. In addition, each winner will receive $1,000, and each runners-up a $500 cash award to further their music education.

Who Can Apply: Students who are residents of California or attending a California university, college, or school, or are studying with a private music teacher in California. Contestants must be at least 16 and cannot be older than 26 at the time of the competition. The competition is limited to the first 15 eligible applicants.

What to Prepare: Both the Piano and the Brass, Woodwinds and Percussion artists must prepare a full concerto or concert piece and a solo piece of contrasting style, to be performed by memory, unless prior arrangements are made with the Young Adult Artist Competition chairperson.

Applicants must bring an accompanist and original music scores for the judges. Please contact the Young Adult Artists’ Competition chairperson, Dr. Fay C. Weber, for assistance in this area.

Application deadline, along with payment of a $75 non-refundable application fee, is due by Friday, February 27, 2026, and must be paid prior to applicant’s acceptance. For more information, please call Dr. Fay Weber at 562-631-5262 or email questions to faycweber@gmail.com or contact the Whittier Regional Symphony Association office at 562-698-8626.

Please complete the online application below.