ITA Trombone Solo and Ensemble Competitions 2027: Non-Jazz Entries Close 14 December
The International Trombone Association is accepting recordings for its 2027 solo and ensemble competition programme between 12 October and 14 December 2026. The programme includes multiple non-jazz categories for developing tenor, bass and alto trombone players, trombone quartets and larger trombone choirs. The specific rules of each division are not interchangeable.
Available non-jazz performance routes
The published competitions include individual tenor and bass trombone divisions, an alto trombone division, a quartet competition, and an Emory Remington trombone choir category. Young performers can find age-appropriate categories, while ensembles should check combined-age or instrumentation limits.
For example, the quartet rules specify four visible performers in one unedited recorded take. The trombone choir category is for eight or more trombonists and excludes other instruments. These examples illustrate why each applicant should consult their division's own repertoire and media instructions.
Recordings and preliminary selection
Applications are initially judged from recordings. ITA provides separate competition pages containing permitted works, repertoire, age cut-offs, sound and video rules and the relevant forms. A submission prepared for one category may be ineligible for another because of performance, recording or file-naming requirements.
Do not add visible performer identities when the chosen category requires anonymous judging. Verify whether audio and video must be submitted separately, whether editing within a piece is prohibited, and whether an accompanying piano is required. The examples are not a substitute for the detailed competition rules.
Finals in Ohio and the organiser
Finalists are invited to compete during the International Trombone Festival at Bowling Green State University, Ohio, on 7–10 July 2027. Travel, accommodation, and permission to enter the United States should be considered early; funding or reimbursement should not be assumed without explicit confirmation.
ITA, founded in 1972, is an established international association for trombone players and runs its own festival, journal and competitions. The complete programme also lists other styles; this article intentionally focuses on the non-jazz performance competitions.
Submission deadline and practical advice
Recorded applications are scheduled to close on 14 December 2026. Select a single eligible division before paying any fee, then cross-check the individual age rules, video/audio formats, required repertoire and application portal. Save the organiser's confirmation message and retain original unedited performance files.
For mixed ensembles or unusual instruments, do not infer eligibility from the competition's general name. The definitive source is the relevant division's current rules.
Official application and final checks
Details and deadlines can be updated by the organiser. Read the official rules and use only the official submission route before paying fees, sharing documents or submitting work. Information reviewed on 23 October 2026.