We have hosted annual artistic competitions for students and young adults in metropolitan Chicago for more than 40 years. Each competition offers top competitors scholarships or awards and opportunities to either display their work or perform for selected audiences.
If you are interested in applying for a competition, please first check the general guidelines to determine your eligibility and then review the program specific information below. Application dates and submission criteria vary by program.
General Guidelines
Creative Writing
Supports young writers of fiction, creative non-fiction, plays and poetry.
We provide monetary support and also publish winners’ work.
Creative Writing Guidelines and Application 2010
Classical Music
Chicago’s oldest and most generous program to support emerging classical virtuoso musicians in voice, piano, strings and wind. Paper Based Submission Only Classical Music Guidelines and Application 2010 For Paper Submission
Jazz Composition
Supports young artists who possess the unique talent of composing original scores of jazz music.
Jazz Composition Guidelines and Application 2010
Jazz Improvisation
Awards Chicago’s young, emerging jazz musicians for the originality and creativity of their spontaneous improvisation in this unique musical form.
Jazz Improvisation Guidelines and Application 2010
Visual Arts
In addition to generous awards to help young, emerging artists advance their craft, we host opportunities for competition finalists to exhibit their work for professional audiences.
Visual Arts Guidelines and Application 2010
To learn more about some of our program participants, please visit our Success Stories section.
