Young Musician

Introduction 

The Rotary Young Musician Competition 2026 is a fantastic opportunity for young people to showcase their talent, grow as performers, and share their love of music with others. Not only a competition, it’s a supportive and encouraging experience that helps musicians develop their performance skills, gain confidence, and form friendships and connections.

This year’s Northwest District (1285) Competition will run in two stages: local and district. Local events may include more than one round, and the winners will go on to perform at the District 1285 Young Musician Final in April 2026 (date and venue to be arranged)

The competition is open to all levels, grades and styles of young instrumentalists and vocalists. The organisers particularly welcome entrants from modern genres. 

Aims and Objectives 

 The competition aims to offer young people: 

• the experience of performing on a public stage
• an opportunity to showcase their musical talent
• impartial feedback and assessment of their performance by experienced adjudicators
• a certificate as record of accomplishment

Who can take part? 

The competition is open to all secondary schools and college communities, including those that are home educated and any other young peoples’ community organisations, for example, community RotaKids, community Interact, Scout Groups, Girl Guides. 

All students (amateur) should be in full time education up to the age of 17 on 31st August 2025. It should be noted that competitors may be 18 at the time of some or all stages of the competition e.g. a competitor who is 17 on 31st August but turns 18 on 1st September may enter. 

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