Young pianist at a grand piano

AYA Youth  /  Auditions & Apply

Auditions & Apply

Participation in AYA Youth begins with an application and artistic review.

How review works

We consider the complete application — not a single achievement or performance.

Applicants submit background information, current training details, artistic goals, and discipline-specific audition materials. The AYA Artistic Committee reviews each application with consideration for technical preparation, artistic communication, potential, maturity, readiness, scheduling, and available opportunities.

Selected applicants may be invited to an online conversation, callback, or additional artistic review before a final decision. Previous awards or elite institutional affiliations do not guarantee admission — and their absence does not disadvantage an applicant.

Audition requirements

Review the requirements for your discipline.

8–15 min

Classical

Two contrasting selections demonstrating technical preparation and interpretive range.

View requirements → 8–15 min

Jazz

Two contrasting selections demonstrating time, feel, improvisation, and voice.

View requirements → 6–12 min

Voice

Two contrasting selections appropriate to age, training, and vocal development.

View requirements → 3–5 + 2–5 min

Dance

A technical sample and a solo, variation, or choreographic work.

View requirements →

Eligibility

Applicants should

  • Be under the age of 18 at the time of application
  • Be engaged in consistent training in the selected discipline
  • Demonstrate preparation beyond a beginner level
  • Be able to perform or present completed material
  • Have the support and consent of a parent or legal guardian
  • Be willing to follow AYA communication, rehearsal, and conduct expectations
  • Be able to participate in New York-based activities for a Manhattan performance opportunity

Applications are welcomed from young artists based in the United States and internationally.

Application materials

A complete application includes

  • Applicant and parent / guardian information
  • Primary discipline and area of specialization
  • Current teacher, coach, studio, school, or ensemble
  • A short artistic biography and personal statement
  • Recent audition recordings (two selections)
  • Repertoire or work information and artistic goals
  • Headshot or artist photograph, when available
  • Scheduling and travel information
  • Parent or guardian acknowledgments

Incomplete applications may not be reviewed.

Audition video guidelines

Recordings the committee can evaluate fairly.

Applicants will not be evaluated on camera quality, venue, clothing brands, social recognition, or professional editing.

Recordings should have been made within the previous 12 months.

Each selection should be recorded in a continuous take.

Trimming before or after the performance is permitted.

Audio replacement, pitch correction, splicing, and artificial enhancement are not permitted.

The camera should remain stable.

The performer's face, body, instrument, and relevant movement should remain clearly visible.

Audio should be clear enough to evaluate tone, balance, rhythm, diction, or movement detail.

Professional studio recording is not required.

Do not add visual filters, decorative titles, or promotional editing.

Accompaniment should be included when artistically appropriate.

Video links should remain accessible throughout the review period.

Unlisted links are accepted; include passwords in the application where required.

Begin your application

Start the conversation.

This form begins an inquiry with the AYA Youth team. It should be completed with a parent or legal guardian. Fields marked * are required.

Official communication will be directed to the parent or guardian.

Prefer email? Write to info@americanyoungartists.org