FAQ | VEA Competition

FAQ

Julian Velasco performs at the 2018 MFA Chamber Concert

When is the deadline to apply?

Friday, December 31st, by 11:59PM EST.

Can I submit Video?

No, our competition is judged blindly/anonymously so only audio recordings are accepted.

Is Accompaniment required?

Accompaniment is not required for an application to be considered. However appropriate accompaniment where applicable (depending on repertoire) is strongly encouraged.

For the “contrasting work of applicant’s choice”, can I submit more than one piece if its no longer than 15 minutes?

No, please only submit one additional contrasting work.

Are there paper applications?

No, all applications must be submitted through our online portal. You will also submit your audio tracks digitally. Please make separate tracks for each piece or song.  DO NOT put your name in the filename, label each file with the correct composition title. Please submit the repertoire in the order listed on the repertoire page.

If I am an international student studying in the United States am I eligible?

Yes, you are eligible. Please understand we only cover travel costs for travel within the United States, with the exception of the grand prize winners’ trip to Paris (travel originating from the US). Students outside of the United States are not eligible.

VEA Disclaimer:  If the winner(s) is not a US Citizen with a FEIN, we will substitute the prize money with product equivalent to the prize, up to a maximum of $599.

If I am a US Resident but studying outside of the United States am I eligible?

No, applicants must be within the United States at the time of application, regardless of being US residents.

What is the age limit?

To apply you must be between the ages of 18 and 23 on December 31st.

Will I receive comments on my submissions from the judges?

No, the judges will only receive the names of the top three prize winners after the entire judging process is complete.

Is it a good idea to play different instruments on my recording? (e.g. Alto sax & Soprano Sax)

Not necessarily. To date, nobody has been awarded the grand prize with a recording featuring multiple instruments. If you intend to do so make sure all submissions are equally strong.