Who is eligible?
Any current YPO member may apply, but preference will be given to members in their junior and senior years.
What does it cost?
There is no fee to enter, however we request that all students be respectful of the committee’s time and adhere to the schedule set by TRYPO staff.
What should I prepare?
You may play a single-movement work or one movement of a multi-movement concerto.
When will I perform with the orchestra if I win?
The winning soloist typically performs with YPO at the final May concert of the season.
How do I sign up?
The Concerto Competition application form is distributed via e-mail. Fill it out and turn it into TRYPO by the printed deadline. The form may be handed in at rehearsal, mailed, e-mailed (scan with signatures), or faxed.
Do I need to have a pianist?
You will need to perform with accompaniment at your audition. TRYPO does make best efforts to have a pianist available for the competition, or candidates can bring their own accompanist. While it is the student’s responsibility to pay for the pianist, TRYPO can provide assistance towards accompanist fees for students who have demonstrated need.
Concerto Competition Audition Dates
We are happy to announce that Bridget Yun was chosen as the 2022-23 Concerto Competition winner! We loved hearing her performance of David Popper’s Polonaise de Concert, Opus 14 at our spring concert on Sunday, May 7, 2023 at Carnegie Music Hall in Oakland.
Stay tuned for information about the 2023-24 Concerto Competition!
Please note: TRYPO reserves the right to decline to select a winner, or to select more than one winner. TRYPO reserves the right to make the final decision about each piece to be performed.
Congratulations to past concerto competition winners!
2023-24 Season: Could it be you?
2022-23 Season: Bridget Yun (cello)
2021-22 Season: Becky Mack (oboe)
2020-21 Season: We had to skip this year due to COVID-19.
2019-20 Season: Gracie Zielinski (violin) Read more about Gracie on our blog.
2018-19 Season: Roshie Xing (flute) Read more about her audition story on our blog.
2017-18 Season: Kayla Gilmore (flute)
2016-17 Season: Kevin Skinkis (trumpet)
2015-16 Season: Aaron Berger (violin) and Geoffrey Madge (oboe)
2014-15 Season: Jia Kim and Elizabeth Sikes (flutes)
2013-14 Season: James Cunningham IV (viola) and Devin Moore (violin)
2012-13 Season: Alex Park (violin)
2011-12 Season: Michelle Sunjoo Lee (piano/harp) and Bethany Lueers (clarinet)