MTNA 2027 Young Artist Brass and Voice Competition: $160 Entry, Three National Prize Levels
Solo brass and voice competitions with a newly opening registration window
Music Teachers National Association (MTNA) separates its 2026–27 Young Artist Brass and Voice performance competitions from the chamber-music group contests and the older state-level categories. Here, players or singers aged 19–29 on 1 January 2027 may compete individually in the designated divisions. Eligible brass instruments are trumpet, horn, euphonium, trombone and tuba, alongside a dedicated voice section. Registration becomes available on 1 November 2026. The final registration and recording deadline is 2 December 2026 at 3:00 p.m. Eastern Time, an absolute cutoff under the published rules.
Solo-repertoire and recording preparation
This competition evaluates an individual applicant, so a group photo or six-person ensemble programme is not relevant. A soloist must study the instrument-specific performance and video guidelines including permitted repertoire, accompanist rules, music editions, maximum duration and camera placement. Brass applicants should be ready to document range and musical style with the instrument category's standard literature; singers should confirm language, diction and artistic-programme rules on the specific vocal page. MTNA expressly requires a live piano accompaniment for certain video competitions rather than a digitally synthesized backing.
Financial terms and award distinctions
The Young Artist Brass and Voice registration is US$160, including the US$25 Acceptd fee. An additional nonmember teacher charge of US$200 may apply if the entrant's designated teacher has not paid MTNA membership dues. The brass programme lists a national first prize of US$3,000, second of US$1,500 and third of US$750, with smaller merit distinctions. Vocal awards can depend on separately funded categories. Applicants should read the category award pages rather than assume each instrument offers precisely identical financial arrangements.
About the organising association
MTNA promotes music teaching and performance development through competitions and a national conference. Its website publishes its own age limits, instrument divisions, rules for uploaded files and national final programme. Candidates who must travel to the United States should confirm visa needs and whether accommodation or transport subsidies are actually promised; the prize amounts alone do not make every applicant's travel free.
Official application information and regulations
Information verified on 23 October 2026. Always check current local submission times, exact fees, eligibility, copyright, travel, visa and employment terms on the organiser's original documents before applying or paying.