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NEW YORK
MUSIC AWARD 2026
Requirements
Category A has no repertoire restrictions. Participants may perform works from any musical style or period.
Subcategories A1–A5 are divided by age groups, while all other Category A divisions have no age limits.
Category B has specific repertoire requirements. For example:
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B12. Opera – only opera works are accepted.
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B13. Latin Music – only Latin music works are accepted.
Each application may include only one piece.
Video Guidelines
Camera angle changes are allowed.
The maximum performance duration for all categories is 15 minutes.Participants may submit a longer video; however, the jury will listen to only the first 15 minutes.
You may submit multiple pieces in one video, with pauses allowed.
If entering multiple categories, submit separate video links in the application form, separated by commas.
Pre-recorded backing tracks are allowed if a live accompanist is unavailable.
Conductors may submit videos from orchestras, choirs, ensembles, or small groups.
Composers may submit works performed by others, and computer-generated soundtracks are accepted.
Repertoire Selection
For multi-movement works (e.g., sonatas, concertos), you can submit one or more movements.
The same video or piece may be entered in multiple categories if it meets the requirements for each.
This structure offers flexibility while ensuring submissions align with category criteria.
If the organizing committee considers that the participant has selected an inappropriate category, it reserves the right to reassign the participant to a more suitable category.
Categories
A Categories – Open Repertoire
No repertoire restrictions. Participants may perform works from any musical style or period.
Each application must include 1 piece of work no longer than 15 minutes.
A01. Junior (Age 10 & Under)
For young performers showcasing their first steps in musical expression and performance.
1 piece of work no longer than 15 minutes for each application.
A02. Youth (Age 11–13)
For developing young musicians demonstrating growing technique and artistry.
1 piece of work no longer than 15 minutes for each application.
A03. Young Artist (Age 14–17)
For talented teenagers showing strong musical personality and maturity.
1 piece of work no longer than 15 minutes for each application.
A04. Advanced (Age 18–22)
For advanced students and young professionals with refined performance skills.
1 piece of work no longer than 15 minutes for each application.
A05. Golden (Age 50+)
For mature musicians who continue to pursue musical excellence and lifelong passion.
1 piece of work no longer than 15 minutes for each application.
A06. Professional
For trained and active professional musicians or music educators.
1 piece of work no longer than 15 minutes for each application.
A07. Amateur
For non-professional musicians who perform for passion and personal enjoyment.
1 piece of work no longer than 15 minutes for each application.
A08. Instrumental
Open to all instrumental performances, including solo and ensemble works.
1 piece of work no longer than 15 minutes for each application.
A09. Music Video
For creative visual interpretations of music, combining performance and artistic direction.
1 piece of work no longer than 15 minutes for each application.
A10. Original Composition
For composers presenting original works in any style or instrumentation.
1 piece of work no longer than 15 minutes for each application.
A11. Conducting
For conductors demonstrating leadership, interpretation, and ensemble communication skills.
1 piece of work no longer than 15 minutes for each application.
A12. Innovative Writing
For written works on music, performance, or creativity, emphasizing originality and insight.
1 piece of work no longer than 15 minutes for each application.
B Categories – Themed Repertoire
Participants must select works that match the specific genre or theme of the chosen category.
Each application must include 1 piece of work no longer than 15 minutes.
B01. Classical – Works from the classical tradition, including Baroque to contemporary classical.
1 piece of work no longer than 15 minutes for each application.
B02. Indie – Independent or alternative music with original artistic identity.
1 piece of work no longer than 15 minutes for each application.
B03. Album – Presentation of an album or collection showcasing artistic cohesion.
1 piece of work no longer than 15 minutes for each application.
B04. Blues – Music rooted in the blues tradition and expressive emotional style.
1 piece of work no longer than 15 minutes for each application.
B05. Concerto – Solo performance with orchestral or piano accompaniment.
1 piece of work no longer than 15 minutes for each application.
B06. Christian – Sacred or spiritual music inspired by Christian themes.
1 piece of work no longer than 15 minutes for each application.
B07. Chamber Music – Ensemble performances with two or more instruments.
1 piece of work no longer than 15 minutes for each application.
B08. Film / Game Music – Music composed for films, games, or visual media.
1 piece of work no longer than 15 minutes for each application.
B09. Jazz – Jazz performances in any style, including traditional, modern, or fusion.
1 piece of work no longer than 15 minutes for each application.
B10. Country – Country music performances expressing storytelling and authenticity.
1 piece of work no longer than 15 minutes for each application.
B11. Musical Theatre – Performances from musical theatre or stage productions.
1 piece of work no longer than 15 minutes for each application.
B12. Opera – Opera arias or scenes from any composer or period.
1 piece of work no longer than 15 minutes for each application.
B13. Latin Music – Latin-inspired works with rhythmic vitality and cultural flair.
1 piece of work no longer than 15 minutes for each application.
B14. World Music – Music reflecting diverse global traditions and cultural expressions.
1 piece of work no longer than 15 minutes for each application.
B15. R&B / Soul – Rhythm and blues or soul performances with expressive vocal delivery.
1 piece of work no longer than 15 minutes for each application.
B16. Pop – Contemporary popular music with creativity and stage presence.
1 piece of work no longer than 15 minutes for each application.
B17. Rock – Rock performances showcasing energy, style, and originality.
1 piece of work no longer than 15 minutes for each application.
B18. Folk – Traditional or contemporary folk music inspired by cultural roots.
1 piece of work no longer than 15 minutes for each application.
B19. Hip-Hop / Rap – Hip-hop and rap performances highlighting rhythm, lyrics, and flow.
1 piece of work no longer than 15 minutes for each application.