The Yen Liang Young Artist Competition is an annual concerto competition presented by the Diablo Symphony Association, showcasing the depth of the young local talent in Contra Costa County and beyond. The competition is dedicated to the memory of Yen Liang (1908–2000), a noted artist, architect, and longtime resident of Rossmoor who also played second violin in the Diablo Symphony for many years. The competition rotates every year between strings, winds/brass/percussion, and piano; the competition is open to wind, brass, and percussion players in the 2024–2025 season.
Potential candidates are asked to play a concerto of their own choosing. The first-prize winner will receive a $1,500 cash honorarium and the opportunity to perform the auditioned concerto with the Diablo Symphony Orchestra in two concerts in Walnut Creek (one at the Lesher Center for the Arts on October 20, 2024, and one at Rossmoor on a nearby October date to be determined). The second-prize winner will receive a $750 cash honorarium.
Applicants to the 2024–2025 competition must have been born after April 1, 2001, and must submit applications to the competition (including the video recording of a concerto of the applicant’s choice) by no later than August 9, 2024. For the application form, please click here. The final round of the competition will take place at 5:00 p.m. on August 25, 2024, in Walnut Creek (location to be determined).
For more information about the competition, please consult the competition rules. You may also contact Christine Hsia, competition coordinator, at [email protected].