Young String Artists to Compete at BBSO's Annual Competition

The (BBSO) is proud to offer local, up-and-coming string players the opportunity to compete in the 17th Annual Young Artist String Competition. The winner of the competition will receive a cash price and have the opportunity to perform as a soloist with the BBSO at their 'Grande Finale' concert on May 20.

As the orchestra of the Birmingham and Bloomfield communities, the BBSO hosts several outreach events that work to fulfill their commitment of "engaging our community in harmony." By providing this opportunity, the BBSO hopes to encourage young Michigan artists to pursue their interest in playing and performing classical music.

"Every year the BBSO hosts events that work to engage and inspire our community. This competition is one of the ways that we encourage Michigan's talented, young artists. By providing them this unique opportunity, we hope they see the value in pursuing their musical interests," said BBSO chairman of the board, Rich Tropea.

In 2011, Abigail Elder, then a junior at Cranbrook Kingswood School in Bloomfield Hills, went away with the top prize for her performance of Concerto for Viola and Orchestra, Mvt. 1 by William Walton.

Applications for the Young Artist String Competition are due Saturday, Feb. 18 and are available on the BBSO website. Applications should be accompanied by a $45 application fee.

The competition will be held on March 14 and 15 at in Birmingham from 4-9 p.m. The competition is open to students who are currently in grades 9-12 and who play violin, viola, cello, or bass. The competition is sponsored by Quantum Graphics Inc. and Wilson Fine Violins.