The Ann Keller Young Soloist Competition gives talented high school musicians the opportunity to compete for the chance to perform as a featured soloist with the Nittany Valley Symphony. The competition is open to serious pianists and instrumentalists in grades 9–12. The winner receives $250, a professionally recorded CD of the concert, complimentary tickets for immediate family members, and a framed certificate. The second-place prize is $100.

The competition is named in honor of Ann Keller, the woman to whom we owe the founding of the Nittany Valley Symphony more than 50 years ago. Through her tireless efforts, she organized the Symphony to perform in concerts and schools, enriching the musical life of our community.

The competition will be held on Sunday, November 22, 2026 from 1:00-5:00 p.m. at the Penn State School of Music, Room 122 Music Building II.

Applications must be received by November 1, 2026.

The winner of the competition must be available to perform as a soloist with the Nittany Valley Symphony on Sunday, February 21 at 3:00 p.m., and attend a few rehearsals leading up to this performance.

Rules

1. Eligibility: Open to students grades 9-12 who live within the following counties: Centre, Blair, Clearfield, Clinton, Huntingdon, Mifflin, Snyder, Lycoming, or Union. Piano and instruments only (no organ). First place winners may not compete the following year on any instrument.

2. Music: One movement of a concerto or concert piece with an existing orchestral part not exceeding 12 minutes in length. Memorization is required for pianists and strings, and is strongly recommended for other instruments. Music Director reserves the right to decide the feasibility and suitability of the piece. Winner MUST play the piece used in audition.

3. Accompanists must be provided for all instruments by the contestant.

4. Three copies of your music with measures numbered may be needed for the judges, one of which must be an original. All photocopies are destroyed afterwards. Piano reduction scores are required, not just the solo line.

5. Dress appropriately. No jeans, no t-shirts, no shorts. A tux, dark suit, or long gown is standard for concert attire.

6. Contestants are asked to return at 5:00 PM for awarding prizes.

7. No student may have access to the piano before the auditions.

To apply, complete the attached form and submit it along with the application fee and a short entrant bio to Kristin Stephenson at the address below. The application fee must be sent by regular mail. The completed form and bio may be submitted by regular mail or email.

FORM (Click this link to download)

Kristin Stephenson

2397 Quail Run Rd.

State College, PA 16801

[email protected]

To apply, please fill out this application form.

APPLICATION FORM