UMD Symphony Orchestra Concerto Competition Prelims

The UMD Symphony Orchestra Concerto Competition Prelims begin the search for the orchestra’s next featured soloist. In this first round, UMD School of Music students perform concerto excerpts or concert pieces before an independent jury panel. The competition continues through successive rounds, narrowing the field until a winner and runners-up are announced in the final round.

When: Sunday, November 15, 2026

Showtime: 1:00 p.m.

Tickets: Free; no tickets are required.

Venue: Lower Pavillion, The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center at UMD

Competition format: UMD School of Music students perform concerto excerpts or concert pieces for an independent jury panel. The field is reduced after each round, leading to a final round that determines the winner and runners-up.

Accessibility: The Clarice offers wheelchair-accessible seating, size-inclusive seating, large-print programs, assisted listening devices, adult and child-friendly sensory packs, and quiet spaces upon request. ASL interpretation, audio description, and captioning are available for select events or by patron request at least six weeks in advance.