We have hosted annual artistic competitions for students and young adults in metropolitan Chicago for more than 40 years. Each competition offers top scholarships or awards to either display their work or perform for selected audiences.
If you are interested in applying for a competition, you can complete an application online through the Apply Here tab (on the right side) or you can download an application and mail it to our offices. Competitions and corresponding guidelines are listed below. Please be sure to read all the guidelines and instructions for the competition to which you are applying. Application dates and submission criteria vary by program.
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 Application and Guidelines 2012
Creative Writing
Supports young writers of fiction, creative non-fiction, plays and poetry.
We provide monetary support and also publish winners’ work.
Creative Writing Application and Guidelines 2012
Jazz Arranging New!
Awards young jazz musicians for original arrangements of a previously written jazz, popular or pop song in the jazz or light rock idiom.
Jazz Arranging Application and Guidelines 2012
Jazz Composition
Supports young artists who possess the unique talent of composing original scores of jazz music.
Jazz Composition Application and Guidelines 2012
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 Application and Guidelines 2012
Please Note: The February 7th audition time will only be used if necessary for overflow.
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 Art Application and Guidelines 2012
