Music Matters International Music Competition

Registration is Open for the 2027 Music Matters National Competition

2027 In-Person Music Competition in Bellevue, WA

Music Matters is pleased to announce that the 2027 Competition is now open for both In-Person and Remote (Digital) participation. We welcome entries for Piano, Violin, Viola, and Cello, as well as String Duets, Trios, and Quartets.

Deadlines & Requirements

Registration Deadline: All applications for both In-Person and Digital tracks must be submitted by 11:59 PM on May 16th, 2027.
Repertoire: Participation requires the performance of one complete work or movement (as specified in the repertoire guidelines).
Application Fees: The registration fee is due at the time of application and is strictly non-refundable.

Submission Policy

Before submitting your enrollment, please ensure you have reviewed the Complete Rules and Regulations. By registering, contestants agree to abide by all judging criteria, technical requirements, and performance standards.

Competition Schedule

The In-Person Competition will be held in Bellevue, WA, on May 22nd, 2027

at Crossroad Community Center, located at 16000 NE 10th St, Bellevue, WA 98008

The In-Person Competition Deadline is 11:59 PM on May 3rd, 2027.
The Digital Competition Submission Deadline is May 16th, 2027.
Winners will be announced on the Music Matters website by June 7th.
Winners of each competition division will be selected through distinct processes, including in-person events and virtual platforms.
The Honor Rising Star Concert is scheduled for June 24th at 5:30 pm

Rules and Regulations

Competitions Divisions

Elementary

Age: 6–8 on January 1, 2027
Competitions: Piano and String
Competition Type: Solo and Duet
Entry Fee: $ 96 (Digital)
Entry Fee: $115 (In-person Solo)

Junior

Age: 9–11 on January 1, 2027
Competitions: Piano and String
Competition Type: Solo and Duet
Entry Fee: $ 115 (Digital)
Entry Fee: $125 (In-person Solo)

Intermediate

Age: 12–14 on January 1, 2027
Competitions: Piano and String
Competition Type: Solo and Duet
Entry Fee: $131 (Digital)
Entry Fee: $138 (In-person Solo)

Senior

Age: 15–17 on January 1, 2027
Competitions: Piano and String
Competition Type: Solo and Duet
Entry Fee: $135 (Digital)
Entry Fee: $151 (In-person Solo)

College

Age: 18– 22 on January 1, 2027
Competitions: Piano and String
Competition Type: Solo and Duet
Entry Fee: $148 (Digital)
Entry Fee: $172 (In-person Solo)

Chamber Music for 2 to 5 performers

Age: Ensemble members must be 12 - 22 on January 1, 2027
Competitions: Piano & String
Competition Type: Trio, Quartet, Quintet
Entry Fee: $ 178 (Digital)
Entry Fee: $ 199 (In-person)

Prize

Awards:

The winners of the music contest will be determined based on the following categories:

First-, second-, and third-place prizes will be awarded for both digital and in-person music contests.

Selected winners will receive an invitation to perform at the Winners' Rising Star Honor Concert at Illsley Ball Nordstrom Recital Hall at Benaroya Hall. Benaroya Hall is a concert venue that can be listed as one of the landmarks of your musical journey. In this hall, renowned artists have performed, including Lou Reed, Arlo Guthrie, Yuja Wang, Lang Lang, Mahani Teave, Joe Hisaishi, Alexander Gavrylyuk, Marina Staneva, Evgeny Kissin, Florian Krumpöck, Jackson Browne, Yo-Yo Ma, and more.

Each winner who performs at Benaroya Hall will receive a custom trophy, and participating instructors will receive a certificate of recognition for their efforts and contributions. The Small Appreciation Allowance will be made possible by the Music Matters Foundation Fund for first- and second-prize winners who will perform at the Rising Stars Concert.

Winners who receive an invitation to play at the Winners' Rising Star Honor Concert but choose not to travel will receive their diplomas by mail only.