Summer 2026 National Youth Orchestra and Jazz Nominations

The MTNA National Student Competitions are the most successful and prestigious student competitions in the country Each year, thousands of students compete for top prizes and national recognition.

The three-tiered competitions begin at the state round. First-place winner of the each state's competition advance to a division competition. Division winners compete in the national finals at the annual MTNA National Conference.

The purpose of the Music Teachers National Association Performance competitions is to provide educational experiences for students and teachers and to recognize exceptionally talented young artists and their teachers in their pursuit of musical excellence. The state competitions are considered the primary educational level with the division and national levels showcasing outstanding performance and honoring significant pedagogical achievement.

Competitions include Composition, Brass, Piano, String, Voice, Woodwind and Chamber Music.