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For Young Musicians

Jane Rooks Ross & Barry Ross Youth Soloist Competition 

2023/24 Youth Soloist Competition Information

The 2023/24 Youth Soloist Competition Auditions will take place on Saturday, November 11, 2023 from 9:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.  Application and application fee ($20) are due by Friday, November 3, 2023.

The selected soloist will perform on the Kalamazoo Symphony's Family Discovery concert on March 5, 2023 at 7 p.m. in Miller Auditorium.

Students must be in grades 12 or under and reside in one of the following Michigan counties: Allegan, Barry, Branch, Berrien, Calhoun, Cass, Kalamazoo, St. Joseph, and Van Buren.

Music Requirements: The audition music should be a movement of a concerto or composition for a solo instrument and orchestra not exceeding 10 minutes. Memorization is not required for audition. Please bring three copies of the music for the adjudicators. Advanced vocal students need to discuss repertoire with KSO Education Team prior to registering for an audition time. Works selected for performance may require cuts, to be determined in consultation with the student’s teacher and KSO Conductor. Students will need to provide an accompanist for the audition. While it is best to arrange this through your teacher, if you cannot find an accompanist, you may contact the KSO Education Team for a list of local accompanists.

Additional Questions? Please contact the Education Team:
education@kalamazoosymphony.com
(269) 349-7759

2023/24 Application & Informational Sheets


Student Performers Showcase

Area schools are invited to showcase their instrumental programs for KSO audiences. Small ensembles perform in the lobby as patrons arrive for a concert. Students receive complimentary tickets to attend the evening's concert. Contact us for available dates and to register.


Professional Training Programs for College Students

Master Classes and Artist Presentations

Selected KSO guest artists will offer master classes and workshops for students at WMU, K-College, and other area school and community music programs.

WMU Artist Scholars

KSO offers scholarships to outstanding WMU string students performing at a professional level. Students are recommended by WMU string faculty in consultation with KSO Music Director Julian Kuerti. Those students join the KSO violin and viola sections for the season.

Arts Administration Internships

In partnership with the Kalamazoo Promise, summer internships are an opportunity for PRomise Students to explore and observe the inner workings of a nonprofit arts organization by assisting with projects in the Education, Development, Marketing/Public Relations and Operations departments. Contact the KSO Education Department for more information.