The winner in each category will perform as a soloist with the Whittier Regional Symphony during the 2025-26 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. All contestants must be at least 16 years old. String players cannot be older than 26 at the time of the competition; vocalists cannot be older than 30. The competition is limited to the first 15 eligible applicants.

What to Prepare: Strings must prepare a full concerto or concert piece and a solo piece of contrasting style, both to be performed by memory. Voice contestants must prepare three songs: an aria from an opera, a song from a musical or operetta and a lieder or art song. All pieces are to be performed from memory. It is preferred that contestants provide their own accompanist, but if needed, one will be available on-site. If you require this service please make prior arrangements with chair, Dr. Fay Weber at 562 631 5262 or email faycweber@gmail.com. All contestants must bring an extra copy of all music to be performed for use by the judges.

Application deadline, along with payment of a $60 non-refundable application fee is due March 5, 2025. To make payment please select the Donate button on the website at whittierregionalsymphony.org

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.