Students must attach a link to a (5) minute video to be used as a preliminary round/screening round. Video must show the student from head to toe, and students must state their name, age, and date before beginning their audition. Videos do not have to be professional in nature. Cell phone videos are welcome. Please note that accompanists are not required for the preliminary video. Students may use music for the preliminary round. Music must be memorized for the live competition.

If you have any questions about the preliminary round or any other aspect of the Susan D. Barton Music Competition, then please email us at YAOrchestra@gmail.com

1. The Susan Barton Competition is open to all students in Southern Nevada regardless of YAO affiliation.
2. Competitors must fit in one of the age divisions; (Intermediate) ages of ages 5-7,  (Junior) ages 8-14, and (Senior) 15-22. Age is based on the day of the competition.
3. Competitors may compete with a string, wind, or percussive instrument. Guitar students are welcome to apply. Piano applications will not be accepted. Pianists are recommended to visit our partners at the Las Vegas Piano Competition. Please email us if you have eligibility questions.
4. Competitors will compete in a preliminary video round. Accompaniment is not required for the preliminary video. Please read above for more information on the preliminary round. Finalists will be invited to compete in the live competition.
5. Competitors must have an accompanist for the competition unless they are performing solo (a cappella) repertoire.
6. Each finalist will have up to 10 minutes to perform their selection in live competition. If the competitor goes over 10 minutes, then the judges will have the final say on whether to stop the soloist. Musicians will not be penalized if they are stopped.
7. Competitors must have their music memorized for the live competition.
8. Competitors who also participated in the Carol Jackson Concerto Competition must perform different repertoire. Competitors may not repeat programs.
9. All decisions are final. Judging panel of up to 4 judges will decide on a first, second, and third place winner in each division.
10. Winners of the Susan Barton Competition agree to perform and/or be featured at upcoming fundraising or special events.