International Young Artist Concerto Competition

IYACC is the Premier Concerto Competition with SEEN Orchestra

IYACC is the premier concerto competition providing the opportunity for sixteen competitors to perform with a professional orchestra, conducted by a renowned conductor, for the semi-final & final rounds. World-class judges allow for exposure and recognition for competitors at every level. 

The 2025 International Young Artist Concerto Competition is open to students internationally 18 years of age or younger. Applicants are welcome to submit one movement of a concerto on any instrument. Any concerto may be selected, as long as the orchestra parts are available on IMSLP or NKODA. At least one student under the age of 13 will be selected to move into the semifinal round. Students that move to the semifinals round will perform with a live professional orchestra in Chicago.

Comments from our Jury & 2024 Winner

“I had an incredible time performing one of my favorite concertos with the wonderful musicians of the SEEN Orchestra under the baton of Maestro Conner Gray Covington. Playing for an esteemed jury and hearing the other fantastic musicians during the competition was truly an inspiring and unforgettable experience. I am also extremely grateful to the IYACC for yet another amazing opportunity to present a pre-concert solo recital at the prestigious Ravinia Festival Martin Hall in Chicago on July 13, 2024, prior to the Chicago Symphony Orchestra performance.”

Joshua Kováč, Winner 2024 IYACC.

“The IYACC is one of the most competitive and rewarding experiences for young musicians today. The level of playing is very high amongst the competitors and accompanying orchestra alike. There are not many competitions that allow young artists to work directly with a professional orchestra in competition - this experience alone is worth the investment of time and energy. I would highly recommend aspiring soloists to apply.”

 Aaron Breid, Conductor, Jury.

“I had the honor of being one of the jury members for the IYACC, and I was truly impressed with the high level of the participants. Playing with an orchestra is extremely important for young musicians, and the opportunity to do so does not come along very easily. What the International Concerto Competition does is invaluable, as it foster the young musicians’ growth in a unique and remarkable way. It prepares them well for their careers.”

 Antonio Pompa Baldi, Artistic Advisor to the Lang Lang Music Foundation, Concert Pianist, Jury.

Competition Structure:
Round 1 - Video
Round 2 - Semi-Finals (16 competitors), Live with Professional Orchestra in Chicago, IL
Round 3 - Finals (4 competitors), Live with Professional Orchestra in Chicago, IL

Deadlines:
November 15 - Early Bird Application Due (fees)
December 20 - Application Deadline (fees) +
December 20 - Video Submission Deadline Due

Fees:
Regular Application Fee $195
All Application Fees are Non-Refundable

Dates:
Rehearsals: January 24, 2025 (by invitation for 16 applicants)
Semi-Final and Final Rounds: Chicago, IL January 25 & 26, 2025

Please contact us at hello@iyaccompetition.com or 312-212-8043 with questions.
IYACC is sponsored by Seen Worldwide NPO

For technical questions, please visit the Acceptd Help Desk.